Imagine a dessert so delicate and irresistible that it transports you straight to a charming Parisian café with just one bite. This Thin French Apple Tart is not just a recipe—it's a culinary masterpiece that combines the buttery, flaky perfection of puff pastry with the delicate sweetness of thinly sliced apples. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this elegant dessert promises to elevate your baking skills and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 3-4 medium apples, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to become pliable.
- Wash and core the apples, then slice them very thinly (approximately 1/8 inch thick) using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer.
- In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
- Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet onto the prepared baking sheet, gently smoothing out any creases.
- Using a sharp knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edge of the pastry, creating a frame for the apple arrangement.
- Brush the entire pastry surface, including the border, with melted butter.
- Arrange the apple slices in overlapping, slightly fanned rows within the scored border, ensuring a neat and decorative pattern.
- Sprinkle any remaining sugar mixture over the arranged apple slices.
- Brush the pastry border with beaten egg to create a golden, glossy finish when baked.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown and the apple edges are slightly caramelized.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
Tips
- Slice Apples Uniformly: Use a mandoline slicer or a very sharp knife to ensure thin, even apple slices. This guarantees consistent cooking and a beautiful, professional presentation.
- Room Temperature Pastry: Allow your puff pastry to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before handling. This makes it more pliable and prevents cracking.
- Keep Apples Fresh: Toss apple slices in lemon juice to prevent browning and add a subtle tangy brightness to the tart.
- Create a Beautiful Border: The scored border not only looks elegant but helps contain the apple slices and creates a beautiful, raised edge.
- Egg Wash Magic: Brushing the pastry border with beaten egg ensures a gorgeous golden-brown, glossy finish that will make your tart look professionally baked.
- Watch Baking Time: Every oven is slightly different, so keep an eye on your tart during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
