Tarte Tatin
Baileys coffee + tarte tatin (8326123260).jpg by File Upload Bot (Magnus Manske) · CC BY 2.0
Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that captivates with its perfectly caramelized apples and buttery, flaky pastry. The upside-down presentation creates a stunning visual and offers a delightful combination of sweet, tender fruit and crisp crust, making it a perfect centerpiece for special gatherings or a comforting end to a meal.
Originating from the Loire Valley in France, the Tarte Tatin was reportedly created by accident in the 1880s at the Hôtel Tatin in Lamotte-Beuvron. This charming legend attributes the invention to the Tatin sisters, who decided to cook apples in caramel under a pastry lid, then flipped it after baking. Over time, this rustic yet elegant dessert became beloved worldwide, celebrated for its rich flavor and nostalgic charm.
Ingredients
- 6 large apples (such as Golden Delicious or Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 sheet puff pastry (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2
Peel, core, and halve the apples. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- 3
In an ovenproof skillet (preferably cast iron), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture turns golden and caramelized (about 5-7 minutes).
- 4
Arrange the apple halves upright, tightly packed, on top of the caramel in the skillet. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly and the caramel to thicken.
- 5
Remove the skillet from heat. Roll out the puff pastry slightly to fit over the skillet. Place the pastry over the apples, tucking the edges down around the fruit.
- 6
Cut a few small slits in the pastry to allow steam to escape.
- 7
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through.
- 8
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes. Carefully invert the skillet onto a serving plate, flipping the tart so the caramelized apples are on top.
- 9
Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream.