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Easy Classic French Apple Tart (Tarte aux Pommes)

A close-up of a thick slice of baked apple tart showing layered, caramelized apple slices on a buttery crust.

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Make a classic French apple tart using a simple, buttery crust and tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. This recipe is easier than pie and delivers impressive results for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package (14.1 ounces) all-butter puff pastry, thawed
  • 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • 2 tablespoons apricot jam or apple jelly (optional, for glaze)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. If using store-bought puff pastry, unfold it onto the prepared baking sheet. If you are making a homemade crust, press it into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
  3. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. You want slices about 1/8 inch thick.
  4. In a medium bowl, gently toss the apple slices with the granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice until the apples are evenly coated.
  5. Arrange the apple slices over the pastry base in a decorative pattern, such as overlapping concentric circles, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
  6. Fold the 1-inch border of the pastry up and over the edges of the apples to create a rustic rim.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the folded pastry rim generously with the egg wash.
  8. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
  9. If using, warm the apricot jam or jelly slightly in a small saucepan or microwave. Brush the warm glaze lightly over the baked apples for shine.
  10. Let the tart cool on the baking sheet for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use a mix of sweet and tart apples.
  • If you prefer a caramelized finish, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar over the apples before baking.
  • This tart pairs well with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream.

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