Almond Apple Tarts Recipe
These almond apple tarts are a perfect balance of buttery crust, sweet almond filling, and tender apple slices. They’re easy to make yet elegant enough for special occasions! 🍎🥧
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter (cut into cubes)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2–3 tbsp ice-cold water
For the Almond Cream (Frangipane):
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup (100g) almond flour
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional)
For the Apple Topping:
- 2 medium apples (e.g., Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
For Garnish (Optional):
- Powdered sugar
- Slivered almonds
- Apricot jam (for glazing)
Instructions
1. Make the Tart Crust:
- In a food processor, pulse the flour, sugar, and salt until combined. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing just until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Almond Cream (Frangipane):
- In a bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and mix well.
- Stir in the almond flour, all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using) until smooth. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Apples:
- Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl, then sprinkle over the apples.
4. Assemble the Tarts:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into circles to fit your tart pans (or use one large tart pan). Press the dough into the pans and trim the edges.
- Spread a layer of almond cream evenly over the crust.
- Arrange the apple slices on top of the almond cream in a fan or spiral pattern.
5. Bake the Tarts:
- Place the tarts on a baking sheet and bake for 25–30 minutes (for small tarts) or 35–40 minutes (for a large tart), until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.
- Let the tarts cool slightly.
6. Glaze and Garnish (Optional):
- Warm the apricot jam slightly and brush it over the apples for a glossy finish.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar and slivered almonds for extra elegance.
Tips:
- Apple Variety: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a contrast to the sweet almond cream, or sweet apples for a milder flavor.
- Storage: Store the tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Shortcut: Use store-bought tart shells to save time.
Enjoy these almond apple tarts as a beautiful and delicious dessert or tea-time treat! 🍎🥧✨