Imagine a dessert so sublime it could make a Parisian pastry chef weep with joy - the Tarte aux Pommes Normande is exactly that culinary masterpiece! This classic French apple tart isn't just a dessert; it's a journey through the lush orchards of Normandy, where each bite tells a story of tradition, elegance, and pure gastronomic pleasure. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 4 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you are ready to bake the tart.
- Prepare your pie crust by rolling it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully transfer the crust to the tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with 1/4 cup of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Toss the apples gently to coat them evenly with the sugar and cinnamon mixture.
- Arrange the apple slices in the prepared pie crust, overlapping them slightly in a circular pattern for an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
- In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Pour the cream mixture evenly over the arranged apples in the tart crust. This will create a custard-like filling that binds the apples together.
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is golden brown. You may want to check the tart after 30 minutes and cover it with aluminum foil if it is browning too quickly.
- Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve the Tarte aux Pommes Normande warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Select firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that will hold their shape during baking.
- Crust Matters: For an authentic texture, use a homemade butter-based pie crust or a high-quality store-bought version.
- Slice Uniformly: Cut apple slices to similar thickness to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Temperature Control: Watch your tart closely in the last 10-15 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the tart to rest and set for at least 10 minutes after baking for the perfect custard-like consistency.
- Serving Suggestion: A light dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this classic dessert to new heights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 110mg
