Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, flaky pastry that cradles tender apple slices dripping with rich, decadent salted caramel. These irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are not just a dessert – they're a culinary experience that transforms simple ingredients into a masterpiece that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pastry chef, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game and create memories with every delicious bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry
- 2 medium apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cool.
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them thinly into uniform half-moon shapes, approximately 1/8 inch thick.
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut it into 4 equal rectangular pieces using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
- Arrange the apple slices diagonally across each pastry rectangle, slightly overlapping them and leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon evenly over the apple slices.
- Drizzle salted caramel sauce generously over the apple-covered pastry pieces.
- Fold the pastry edges inward to create a rustic border, gently crimping the corners to seal.
- Brush the exposed pastry edges with beaten egg to ensure a golden, shiny finish.
- Place the tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Optional: Drizzle additional salted caramel sauce on top before serving and garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Opt for firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp that hold their shape during baking.
- Pastry perfection: Keep your puff pastry cold but pliable. Thaw it just enough to work with, but not so much that it becomes too soft.
- Slice uniformly: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create even apple slices, ensuring consistent cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Don't skimp on the caramel: The salted caramel is what makes these tarts extraordinary, so be generous with your drizzling.
- Egg wash is key: The beaten egg creates that gorgeous golden sheen that makes your tarts look professionally baked.
- Watch your oven: Every oven is slightly different, so start checking your tarts around the 20-minute mark to prevent over-browning.
- Let them rest: Allowing the tarts to cool slightly helps the caramel set and makes them easier to handle and serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
