Aprile's Kitchen

Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that features caramelized apples baked under a flaky pastry crust. Traditionally made upside down, this delicious tart is a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water (more if needed)

For the filling:

• 4-5 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and quartered
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
• Optional: whipped cream or crème fraîche for serving

Instructions

1. Make the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. If the dough is too crumbly, add a bit more ice water.
3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Prepare the filling: In a large, oven-safe skillet (preferably cast iron), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture turns a light caramel color.
6. Arrange the apple quarters in the skillet, packing them tightly in a circular pattern. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, occasionally shaking the pan, until the apples begin to soften and caramelize. If using, drizzle with vanilla extract and lemon juice.
7. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to cover the skillet.
8. Assemble the tart: Carefully place the rolled-out dough over the caramelized apples, tucking the edges down around the apples.
9. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
10. Cool and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully invert the tart onto a serving plate. Serve warm, optionally with whipped cream or crème fraîche.