French Apple Tart

Name: French Apple Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into pieces; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Experience the classic elegance of French pastry with this delightful French Apple Tart recipe. Featuring a buttery crust filled with tender, caramelized apples and a hint of cinnamon, this tart is perfect for dessert lovers looking to impress. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat that embodies the essence of French baking.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-13T14:31:39.319Z

This French Apple Tart is a staple in French cuisine that brings together simple ingredients to create an explosive flavor. The tart combines a rich, flaky crust with sweet, caramelized apples that are spiced perfectly with cinnamon.

The Art of French Pastry

Creating a French apple tart is not just about following a recipe; it’s an art form that combines technique and creativity. French pastry has long been celebrated for its delicate flavors and beautiful presentation. Mastering the tart crust is essential, as it serves as the foundation for your delicious filling. This technique can elevate your baking skills and impress your friends and family.

One secret to achieving a flawless tart crust lies in the temperature of your ingredients. Using chilled butter and cold water ensures that your dough remains flaky and tender. Additionally, resting the dough allows the gluten to relax, yielding a crust that won’t shrink during baking. Paying attention to these details will help you create an authentic French apple tart that rivals those found in Parisian patisseries.

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right variety of apples is crucial for the best flavor and texture in your tart. For a classic French apple tart, consider using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. These varieties balance tartness with sweetness, ensuring a complex flavor profile that pairs beautifully with cinnamon and sugar. The firmness of these apples allows them to hold their shape, providing a delightful bite in every slice.

Another tip is to mix different apple varieties for depth of flavor. Combining tart and sweet apples can enhance the overall taste experience, making your tart even more delicious. Additionally, make sure to peel and slice the apples evenly; uniformity ensures even cooking and a stunning presentation.

Serving Suggestions

To truly enjoy the exquisite flavors of your French apple tart, consider pairing it with a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream beautifully complements the warm, spiced apples and buttery crust, creating a rich dessert experience. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an extra layer of indulgence.

If you want to enhance the visual appeal, dust the tart lightly with powdered sugar before serving. Adding fresh herbs, like a sprig of mint, can also elevate the presentation. For a festive touch, consider serving slices with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of fragrant tea, turning your dessert into a remarkable finish for any meal.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into pieces
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Apple Filling

4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Ensure all ingredients are measured accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Make the Tart Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in egg yolk and cold water until the dough forms.

Press into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Assemble the Tart

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and fit it into a tart pan. Arrange apple mixture over the crust and drizzle with melted butter.

Bake

Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

For optimal taste, serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To maintain the freshness of your French apple tart, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed for up to three days after baking. However, to preserve the crispiness of the crust, it’s best to reheat individual slices in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the slices for about 10 minutes to achieve that just-baked texture.

If you plan to make the tart in advance, consider preparing the crust a day ahead. You can freeze the unbaked crust for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you're ready to bake, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before filling it with apples.

Customization Ideas

This French apple tart recipe serves as a fantastic base for customization. Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to give your tart a unique twist. You can also incorporate dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

For a nutty flavor, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the apple filling before baking. If you're adventurous, try adding a splash of brandy or apple cider to the apple mixture for an extra layer of flavor. These variations can help you personalize the tart to suit your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-made crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a store-bought pie crust if you're short on time.

→ How do I store leftover tart?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.