Delicious Apple Tart: Easy Step-by-Step Recipel

**Title: Delicious Apple Tart: Easy Step-by-Step Recipe**

**Introduction**

There's something utterly comforting about the aroma of baking apples, especially when they're enveloped in a buttery, flaky pastry. This easy step-by-step recipe for a delicious apple tart is not just simple to follow, but also yields a dessert that looks impressive and tastes divine. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you whip up an apple tart that's sure to wow.

**Ingredients**

- 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- ½ cup of unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- ¼ cup of granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- 4-5 large apples (Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of nutmeg
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of lemon zest or vanilla extract for added flavor

**Equipment Needed**

- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch tart pan
- Peeler and corer
- Knife
- Oven

**Preparation Steps**

**Step 1: Prepare the Dough**

Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the chilled, diced butter and rub into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water and knead gently until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

**Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling**

While the dough rests, peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon zest if using. Ensure the apples are evenly coated with the mixture.

**Step 3: Assemble the Tart**

Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Gently press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Arrange the apple slices in concentric circles starting from the edge to the center. Overlap the slices slightly to ensure no gaps.

**Step 4: Baking**

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the edges of the dough with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.

**Step 5: Cooling and Serving**

Allow the tart to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

**Tips and Tricks**

- Ensure the butter is very cold to help achieve a flaky crust.
- Adding a bit of lemon juice to the apple mixture can help prevent browning and add a fresh zing to the flavor.

**Common Mistakes to Avoid**

- Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust. Handle it as little as possible.
- Slicing the apples too thick can result in uneven cooking.

**Nutritional Information**

Each serving (1 slice, approximately 1/8 of the tart) contains approximately 250 calories, 12 grams of fat, 34 grams of carbohydrates, and 3 grams of protein.

**FAQs**

- **Can I use pre-made pie crust?**

  Yes, a pre-made pie crust can be a time-saver and works just fine for this recipe.

- **How long does apple tart keep?**

  The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure it is covered to prevent it from drying out.

**Conclusion**

This delicious apple tart recipe combines the classic flavors of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a buttery crust that's sure to please any crowd. It's the perfect dessert for any occasion that calls for a touch of sweetness.

**Call to Action**

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