Maple-Apple Tarte Tatin

Introduction

When I first made this Maple-Apple Tarte Tatin, it was for a special family dinner. The moment I flipped the tart out of the skillet and saw the glossy, caramelized apples nestled perfectly beneath the golden pastry, I knew it was going to be a hit. My family was impressed by both the rich, caramelized flavor of the apples and the buttery, flaky crust that enveloped them. The addition of pure maple syrup added a unique twist to the traditional Tarte Tatin, elevating it to something special. After the first bite, there were smiles all around. This dessert has since become a favorite, perfect for everything from casual dinners to holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love Maple-Apple Tarte Tatin

This Maple-Apple Tarte Tatin is a stunning dessert that combines the warmth of caramelized apples with the richness of maple syrup. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Perfect Balance of Flavors: The tartness of the apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the sweetness of the maple syrup create a beautifully balanced flavor profile. The buttery crust ties everything together, offering both a tender and crisp texture.
• Impressive Presentation: The dramatic flip of the Tarte Tatin reveals a glossy, caramelized apple top that looks like it came from a gourmet pastry shop. It’s the perfect dessert to wow your guests.
• Simple Yet Elegant: While the pie may look complicated, the process is straightforward, making it an approachable recipe for bakers of all skill levels. The only real challenge is not eating the whole tart before serving!
• Versatile: Whether you serve it at Thanksgiving, a Sunday supper, or a special celebration, this dessert is sure to impress. You can also adapt the recipe by adding a sprinkle of nuts or other spices to make it your own.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled, plus more for the work surface
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 4 to 6 tablespoons ice-cold water

For the Fruit:

• 12 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, and Jonathan), peeled and quartered (about 5 pounds)
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus a pinch
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup

For Serving:

• Vanilla ice cream

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:
   • Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a bowl. Mix with an electric mixer on low speed for about 30 seconds.
   • Add butter and mix until the mixture resembles peas.
   • Gradually add 4 tablespoons of ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Add more water, 1 tablespoon at a time, if needed.
   • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour or up to 24 hours.
2. Prepare the Apples:
   • Toss apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
   • Melt butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon salt in a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Stir gently for 30 seconds once the butter starts to bubble.
   • Arrange apples, rounded side down, in concentric circles in the skillet. Pack them tightly as they will cook down.
   • Cook over medium heat until the juices thicken, about 28–30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Tarte Tatin:
   • Preheat the oven to 425°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
   • Drape the dough over the apples and tuck the edges between the skillet and the apples.
4. Bake the Tart:
   • Transfer the skillet to the oven and reduce the temperature to 375°F.
   • Bake until the pastry is golden brown, about 50–55 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes.
5. Flip and Serve:
   • Carefully invert a serving plate or baking sheet over the skillet. Quickly flip the skillet and plate together, tilting the skillet away from you to avoid spills.
   • If any apples stick to the skillet, gently reposition them on the tart.
6. Serve:
   • Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream.
   • Enjoy this stunning dessert that combines caramelized apples and buttery pastry, perfect for a Sunday supper or holiday table!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 380
• Sugar: 42g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
• Yield: 8 servings

How to Serve

• Serve with Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side pairs wonderfully with the warm caramelized apples and flaky pastry.
• As a Holiday Dessert: This tart is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion. Its rich flavors and beautiful presentation will make it the centerpiece of your dessert table.
• For Gifting: This pie is also an excellent option for gifting. Wrap it carefully in a festive box or tin and share it with family or friends.
• Room Temperature: While the tart is best served warm, you can also serve it at room temperature for a slightly firmer texture, especially if you plan to serve it later in the day.
• For Extra Richness: Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness and elegance.

Additional Tips

1. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: For even caramelization and better heat distribution, it’s best to use a cast-iron skillet for this recipe.
2. Chill the Dough Well: Chilling the dough ensures a flaky crust, so don’t skip this step—even if you’re in a rush.
3. Mix Apple Varieties: Use a mix of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet (like Golden Delicious) apples for a more balanced flavor.
4. Check the Caramelization: Keep an eye on the apples as they cook to ensure they caramelize properly. You want the juices to thicken and become syrupy.
5. Let It Rest: Allow the tart to rest for at least 5 minutes before flipping it. This gives the filling time to set and reduces the chances of spillage.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, pears or a mix of apples and pears would also work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this pie in advance? Yes, you can prepare the tart the day before and reheat it before serving.
3. Can I use frozen pie dough? Yes, you can use store-bought frozen pie dough if you’re short on time. It will still taste delicious.
4. Can I make the dough without a mixer? Yes, you can mix the dough by hand using a pastry cutter or your fingers.
5. Can I substitute maple syrup with another sweetener? You can substitute maple syrup with honey, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. Maple syrup adds a distinct richness.
6. How do I know when the pie is done baking? The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, and the apples are bubbling and caramelized.
7. Can I freeze this pie? Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic and foil, then bake it directly from frozen, adding extra time.
8. Do I need to peel the apples? Yes, peeling the apples is important for the texture and flavor of the pie.
9. Can I add spices like nutmeg or ginger? Yes, adding nutmeg or ginger would be a wonderful touch, and it pairs well with the cinnamon and cardamom.
10. How should I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

This Maple-Apple Tarte Tatin is a gorgeous and mouthwatering dessert that’s perfect for any special occasion. The combination of tender caramelized apples, flaky pastry, and the richness of maple syrup creates an irresistible treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or simply want to enjoy a comforting dessert at home, this tart will become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the process of making it, and savor every bite of this delicious pie!

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