Introduction
Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that originated in the Loire Valley in the late 19th century. It’s a simple yet elegant dessert made with caramelized apples and a buttery puff pastry crust. This upside-down tart is a favorite in French cuisine and is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need:
- 6-7 apples
- 150g sugar
- 100g butter
- 1 puff pastry sheet
- 1/2 lemon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C.
- Peel and core the apples, cut them into quarters and sprinkle them with lemon juice.
- In a 20 cm diameter non-stick pan, melt the sugar over low heat until it turns into a caramel color. Add the butter and mix well. Arrange the apple quarters in the pan, rounded side down.
- Cover with the puff pastry sheet, tucking in the edges around the apples.
- Bake the tart for 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before turning the tart upside down onto a serving dish.
- Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Variations
- Pear Tarte Tatin: replace the apples with pears, and add some cinnamon or cardamom for extra flavor.
- Peach Tarte Tatin: replace the apples with peaches, and add some ginger or nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Savory Tarte Tatin: replace the apples with vegetables like tomatoes, onions, or carrots, and add some herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Serve as a side dish or appetizer.
Conclusion
Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that is easy to make and always impresses. With this recipe, you can create a delicious and elegant dessert that will delight your guests. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a perfect finish to any meal. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What is Tarte Tatin?
Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that consists of caramelized apples baked with a buttery pastry crust on top.
What kind of apples should I use for Tarte Tatin?
You can use any type of apple that is good for baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. It’s important to choose apples that are firm and not too sweet, as they will hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the caramel.
How do I make the caramel for Tarte Tatin?
To make the caramel, you will need to melt sugar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan until it turns golden brown. Be sure to watch the caramel carefully and stir frequently to prevent burning. Once the caramel is ready, pour it into the bottom of a baking dish and arrange the apple slices on top.
Do I need to pre-cook the apples before baking?
No, you do not need to pre-cook the apples before baking. The apples will cook perfectly in the oven as the Tarte Tatin bakes.
How do I prevent the pastry from getting soggy?
To prevent the pastry from getting soggy, be sure to use cold butter and cold water when making the pastry dough. Also, be sure to roll out the dough thinly and prick it with a fork before placing it on top of the apples.
Can I make Tarte Tatin ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Tarte Tatin ahead of time and reheat it before serving. To reheat, simply place the Tarte Tatin in a warm oven for a few minutes until heated through.
What should I serve with Tarte Tatin?
Tarte Tatin is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
How do I store leftover Tarte Tatin?
To store leftover Tarte Tatin, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.
Can I make Tarte Tatin in a skillet?
Yes, you can make Tarte Tatin in a skillet instead of a baking dish. Simply arrange the apples and caramel in a skillet, top with the pastry dough, and bake as directed.
Can I use puff pastry instead of shortcrust pastry?
Yes, you can use puff pastry instead of shortcrust pastry for Tarte Tatin. However, keep in mind that puff pastry will puff up more than shortcrust pastry, so you may need to adjust the amount of pastry dough used.
