Name: Apple Almond Tart: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 95 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup (30g) almond flour; 1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes; 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon almond extract; 1 1/2 cups (150g) almond flour; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup apricot jam; 1 tablespoon water

Apple Almond Tart: Prepare to be transported to a cozy autumn afternoon with every bite of this delightful dessert! Imagine the warm, comforting aroma of baked apples mingling with the nutty fragrance of almonds, all nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. This isn't just a tart; it's an experience.

The history of fruit tarts stretches back centuries, with variations found across Europe. The combination of apples and almonds, however, has a particularly strong connection to autumnal traditions, representing the harvest's bounty and the comforting flavors of the season. While the exact origins of the Apple Almond Tart are difficult to pinpoint, its enduring popularity speaks volumes about its deliciousness and versatility.

What makes this tart so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The tender, slightly tart apples contrast beautifully with the crunchy, nutty almonds, all enveloped in a rich, buttery pastry. It's a dessert that's both elegant enough for a special occasion and comforting enough for a simple weeknight treat. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this Apple Almond Tart recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this stunning and scrumptious creation!

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (30g) almond flour
1/2 cup (113g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons granulated sugar

For the Almond Filling:

1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 1/2 cups (150g) almond flour
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Topping:

3 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Glaze (Optional):

1/4 cup apricot jam
1 tablespoon water

Preparing the Crust:

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, salt, and sugar. This ensures the salt and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which is crucial for a consistent crust.
Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to prevent the butter from melting!), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see small pieces of butter – these are what create flaky layers in the crust.
Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this will develop the gluten in the flour and result in a tough crust. The dough should be slightly shaggy but hold together when pressed.
Form the Dough: Gently gather the dough into a disc. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing it from shrinking during baking.
Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. The dough should be about 1/8 inch thick. If the dough is sticking, add a little more flour to the surface.
Transfer to Tart Pan: Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
Trim and Crimp the Edges: Trim any excess dough from the edges of the pan. You can use a rolling pin to roll over the top of the pan to trim the dough, or use a knife. Crimp the edges of the crust to create a decorative border. This also helps to prevent the crust from shrinking too much during baking.
Pre-Bake the Crust (Blind Bake): Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. This prevents the crust from puffing up during baking. Bake for 15 minutes.
Remove Weights and Continue Baking: Carefully remove the parchment paper and pie weights. Return the crust to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Watch it closely to prevent burning. Let the crust cool completely before adding the filling.

Preparing the Almond Filling (Frangipane):

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but you can also do it by hand. The mixture should be pale and airy.
Add Egg and Almond Extract: Beat in the egg until well combined. Then, stir in the almond extract. The almond extract enhances the almond flavor of the filling.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, all-purpose flour, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed in the filling.
Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough filling. The batter will be thick.

Assembling and Baking the Tart:

Spread Almond Filling: Spread the almond filling evenly over the pre-baked tart crust. Make sure to spread it all the way to the edges of the crust.
Prepare the Apples: In a medium bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with the melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. The lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a touch of brightness to the flavor.
Arrange Apples on Tart: Arrange the apple slices in a decorative pattern on top of the almond filling. You can arrange them in concentric circles, overlapping each slice slightly.
Bake the Tart: Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the almond filling is golden brown. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
Cool the Tart: Let the tart cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice.

Glazing the Tart (Optional):

Prepare the Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine the apricot jam and water. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the jam is melted and smooth.
Brush the Tart: Brush the warm glaze over the apples to give them a glossy finish. This also adds a touch of sweetness and helps to preserve the apples.

Serving Suggestions:

This Apple Almond Tart is delicious served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it on its own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It's also a great dessert to bring to potlucks or parties.

Tips for Success:

Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is essential for creating a flaky crust. Make sure your butter is very cold before you start.
Don't Overmix the Dough: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten and result in a tough crust. Mix just until the dough comes together.
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and prevents the crust from shrinking during baking.
Blind Bake the Crust: Blind baking the crust prevents it from becoming soggy when you add the filling.
Use Good Quality Apples: Choose apples that are firm and flavorful. Honeycrisp, Gala, and Fuji apples are all good choices.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: You can adjust the amount of sugar in the filling and topping to suit your taste.

Storage Instructions:

Store the Apple Almond Tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the tart for up to 2 months. To freeze, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw the tart in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Conclusion:

This Apple Almond Tart isn't just a dessert; it's an experience. The delicate balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors, combined with the satisfyingly crisp crust, makes it a truly unforgettable treat. From the moment the aroma of baking apples and almonds fills your kitchen, you'll know you're in for something special. It's a recipe that's both impressive enough for a special occasion and simple enough for a cozy weekend baking project. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you'll understand why I'm so passionate about this tart! But what truly elevates this recipe to "must-try" status is its versatility. While it's absolutely divine served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream, the possibilities are endless. Consider drizzling it with a homemade caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence, or sprinkling it with chopped pecans for added crunch. For a festive twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling during the holiday season. And don't be afraid to experiment with different types of apples! While I personally love the combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for their contrasting textures and flavors, you can easily substitute other varieties like Braeburn, Gala, or Fuji. Each type of apple will bring its own unique sweetness and tartness to the tart, allowing you to customize it to your personal preferences. Looking for serving suggestions? This Apple Almond Tart is perfect as an after-dinner dessert, a delightful addition to a brunch spread, or even a sophisticated afternoon snack. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, a glass of dessert wine, or a simple herbal tea. If you're planning a potluck or gathering, this tart is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. You can even bake it in individual tartlets for a more elegant presentation. I've poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. It's a testament to the fact that simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can create something truly extraordinary. The almond flour in the crust adds a subtle nutty flavor that complements the apples perfectly, while the almond extract in the filling enhances the overall almond experience. It's a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to embark on a baking adventure. I promise you, this Apple Almond Tart is worth every minute of effort. And once you've created your own masterpiece, I'd love to hear about your experience! Share your photos, tips, and variations in the comments below. Let's create a community of tart-loving bakers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy baking! I can't wait to see what you come up with. Don't forget to tag me in your photos so I can see your beautiful creations!