There’s something about the aroma of cinnamon swirling through the air, mingling with sweet apples, that transports you to a cozy French bakery. The moment you take a bite of French Cinnamon Apple Tart, your taste buds will shout in delight and your heart will do a little happy dance. This delightful dessert not only looks like a work of art but also tastes like a slice of heaven, making it perfect for any occasion.
Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories while indulging in this delectable tart. It’s the kind of dish that can turn an ordinary Tuesday into a delightful celebration or make a holiday gathering feel even more special. Trust me; once you experience this masterpiece, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French Cinnamon Apple Tart is easy to prepare, even if you’re not a pastry pro
- The combination of buttery crust and spiced apples creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Its stunning presentation makes it perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or casual get-togethers
- Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or cool with fresh whipped cream, this tart is versatile enough for any occasion
Ingredients for French Cinnamon Apple Tart
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating the perfect tart crust; choose unbleached for better texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for flakiness; it adds rich flavor to the crust.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and filling; adjust based on your apple variety.
- Baking Powder: Provides lift to the crust, ensuring it’s light and tender.
- Salt: A pinch balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Ice Water: Helps bind the ingredients together without melting the butter.
For the Filling:
- Apples: Choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for depth.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; don’t skimp on this magical ingredient.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors and prevents apples from browning.
- Brown Sugar: For an extra layer of caramelized sweetness in your filling.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make French Cinnamon Apple Tart
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in cold unsalted butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until dough forms.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out your dough into a circle about two inches larger than your tart pan. Carefully transfer it into the pan, pressing gently into corners while trimming excess dough.
Step 3: Pre-bake the Crust
Place the tart shell in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly before filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling
While your crust cools, peel and slice those apples thinly. Toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Pour apple mixture into your pre-baked tart shell evenly. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 30-35 minutes until apples are tender and crust is deep golden brown.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Allow cooling slightly before slicing. Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat!
This French Cinnamon Apple Tart isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience that brings warmth to any gathering. So gather those loved ones around—a slice of goodness awaits!
You Must Know
- This delightful French cinnamon apple tart is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of nostalgia
- The sweet aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone feel at home
- Perfect for gatherings or those cozy nights when you need a little sweetness in your life
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven while you prepare the tart crust. Roll out the dough, then layer on the sliced apples and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. Bake until golden brown and your kitchen smells like a Parisian bakery.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to get creative! Swap out Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp, or add a dash of nutmeg for an extra flavor kick. Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for an indulgent twist that will make your taste buds dance.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Your tart will retain its flaky goodness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Remember to slice the apples evenly for consistent cooking and presentation
- Use cold butter for the crust to achieve that flaky texture we all love
- Don’t skip chilling the dough; it makes rolling out so much easier!
Sometimes I whip up this French cinnamon apple tart just to see my family’s faces light up as they take their first bite—it’s pure joy wrapped in pastry!
FAQs:
What is a French Cinnamon Apple Tart?
A French Cinnamon Apple Tart is a delightful dessert that combines tender apples with warm cinnamon, all nestled in a flaky pastry crust. This classic French recipe highlights the natural sweetness of apples while offering a hint of spice. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a special celebration. Serve it warm or at room temperature, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
How do I prepare the apples for the tart?
To prepare the apples for your French Cinnamon Apple Tart, start by selecting firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Peel and core them, then slice them thinly to ensure even cooking. Toss the apple slices in lemon juice to prevent browning and mix them with sugar and cinnamon for added flavor. Allow this mixture to sit for about 15 minutes before arranging it on your tart crust, which enhances the sweetness and brings out their natural juices.
Can I use store-bought pastry for this tart?
Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pastry for your French Cinnamon Apple Tart. A pre-made puff pastry or pie crust saves time and effort while still delivering great taste. Just roll it out according to package instructions and fit it into your tart pan before filling it with the spiced apple mixture. However, if you’re up for it, homemade pastry adds an extra touch of flavor and texture that elevates the dessert.
What can I serve with my French Cinnamon Apple Tart?
Your French Cinnamon Apple Tart pairs wonderfully with several accompaniments. For a classic touch, serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds richness and sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples beautifully. Alternatively, enjoy it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy dessert experience perfect for any time of day.
Conclusion for French Cinnamon Apple Tart:
In summary, making a French Cinnamon Apple Tart is a rewarding experience that results in an impressive dessert bursting with flavor. By using fresh apples combined with fragrant cinnamon and enveloped in flaky pastry, you create something truly special. Whether you opt for homemade or store-bought ingredients, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy every bite as this delightful treat warms your heart!
French Cinnamon Apple Tart
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
French Cinnamon Apple Tart is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of cozy gatherings with its buttery crust and warm spiced apples. This tart is not only visually stunning but also offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Whether served warm with whipped cream or alongside vanilla ice cream, each bite transports you to a charming French bakery.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 3–4 tbsp ice water
- 3 medium apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp mixed)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until dough forms.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface into a circle larger than your tart pan. Transfer to the pan and trim excess.
- Pre-bake the crust for about 15 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool slightly.
- Slice apples thinly and toss with lemon juice, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Fill pre-baked crust with apple mixture and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.
- Cool slightly before slicing; serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
