Tarte tatin

Tarte Tatin is a delightful upside-down tart with caramelized apples and a flaky pastry crust. This classic French dessert pairs tender apples with buttery pastry for a sweet finish.

22 Dec 2025
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

4 apples
1/2 cup butter
2 tbsp sugar
1.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 egg
Tarte tatin

Tarte Tatin is a classic French dessert that features caramelized apples beneath a layer of buttery pastry. Named after the Tatin sisters who popularized it, this upside-down tart has become a beloved treat worldwide. The combination of tender, sweet apples and crisp, flaky crust makes it an impressive yet simple dessert to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Apples:
- Peel, core, and quarter the apples. Set them aside.
3. Make the Caramel:
- In a large, ovenproof skillet or a cast-iron pan, melt ¼ cup (55g) of butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter has melted, add the 2 tablespoons of sugar.
- Stir until the sugar dissolves and begins to caramelize, turning a light amber color. This should take a few minutes.
- Add the apple quarters to the caramel, arranging them in a circular pattern. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning the apples occasionally, until they are slightly tender and well coated in the caramel.
4. Prepare the Pastry Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt.
- Cut the remaining ¼ cup (55g) of butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture.
- Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Beat the egg and add it to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. Add a tablespoon of cold water if needed to help bind the dough.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.
5. Assemble the Tarte Tatin:
- After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a circle slightly larger than the skillet.
- Carefully place the dough over the apples, tucking the edges around the apples and inside the skillet.
6. Bake:
- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Carefully invert a plate over the skillet and flip it to release the tart. Use caution as the caramel may still be hot and runny.
- Let the Tarte Tatin cool slightly before serving.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve the Tarte Tatin warm, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Creating Tarte Tatin at home is a rewarding culinary project that yields a dessert as delicious as it is beautiful. With carefully selected apples and a bit of patience, you'll find this upside-down tart not only impresses guests but also captures the essence of French patisserie. Enjoy your Tarte Tatin warm with a dollop of crème fraîche or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect finish.

Tarte tatin FAQ:

How long should I bake the Tarte Tatin?

Bake the Tarte Tatin in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.

What kind of apples are best for Tarte Tatin?

For Tarte Tatin, use firm apples that hold their shape when cooked, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties offer a good balance of sweetness and tartness.

Can I make Tarte Tatin ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Tarte Tatin ahead of time. Bake it, allow it to cool, and then refrigerate. To serve, reheat gently in the oven before inverting and serving.

What can I substitute for all-purpose flour in the pastry dough?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version. However, results may vary slightly in texture.

How should I store leftover Tarte Tatin?

Store any leftover Tarte Tatin in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispness.

Tips:

- Choose firm apples that hold their shape well during cooking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn.

- Ensure your butter is cold when you cut it into the flour for the pastry to achieve a flaky texture.

- Cook the apples over medium heat to avoid burning the caramel; it should turn a rich golden-brown color.

- Roll out the pastry slightly larger than the pan to ensure it covers the apples completely.

- Let the tart cool for a few minutes before flipping to allow the caramel to set slightly, making it easier to release from the pan.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 340kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 44g
Fiber 3.50g
Sugar 16g
Fat 16g

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