This Apple Shortcrust Pastry Tart is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, buttery crunch of shortcrust pastry with a sweet, spiced apple filling and a glossy apricot icing. The tart is not only delicious but also a great way to showcase fresh apples in a pastry form. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a dinner party, or a cozy afternoon treat, this tart will surely be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of tender apples, sweet icing, and flaky crust makes every bite a comforting experience.
Ingredients
For the Shortcrust Pastry:
- 2 eggs
- 50g sugar
- 80ml oil
- 8g baking powder
- 300g flour
For the Filling:
- 2 apples, grated
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon butter
- A little cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon apricot jam
For the Icing:
- 1 egg white
- 125g icing sugar
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Grate the Apples:
Start by grating the 2 apples into a bowl. This ensures the apples will cook down quickly and blend nicely with the other filling ingredients.
Mix the Filling Ingredients:
Add 2 tablespoons of sugar, a little cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of butter to the grated apples. Stir the mixture well to combine the ingredients and set it aside. The cinnamon will add a warm, aromatic flavor to the filling, while the butter will give it richness and a smooth texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, beat 2 eggs with 50g of sugar until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Then, add 80ml of oil to the bowl and mix until fully incorporated. The oil helps create a tender, flaky pastry.
Add the Dry Ingredients:
To the wet ingredients, add 8g of baking powder and 300g of flour. Stir until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough with your hands until it forms a smooth, non-sticky ball. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little extra flour, but be careful not to overwork it.
Roll Out the Dough:
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface. You want to roll it to a size that will fit your tart mold, ideally one with a diameter of 18-27 cm. Once rolled, place the dough into the greased tart mold, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess. The dough should be even and cover the bottom of the tart pan.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Add the Filling:
Spread the prepared apple filling evenly over the pastry base. Make sure the filling is distributed evenly to ensure every slice has a good amount of apple in it. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of apricot jam over the top. This will add a touch of sweetness and a nice gloss to the tart’s surface.
Bake the Tart:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Once the oven is ready, place the tart in the oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set. The top of the tart should have a slightly caramelized appearance, and the apples should be soft but not mushy.
Step 4: Prepare the Icing
Mix the Icing Ingredients:
While the tart is baking, prepare the icing. In a small bowl, beat 1 egg white until it becomes frothy. Gradually add 125g of icing sugar, beating continuously until the mixture is smooth and shiny. Then, stir in 2 tablespoons of apricot jam. This will add a lovely glaze and subtle sweetness to the tart once it’s iced.
Step 5: Finish the Tart
Ice the Tart:
Once the tart has cooled slightly (about 10 minutes), spread the prepared icing over the top. Use a spatula to smooth the icing evenly across the surface. Let it set for a few minutes before serving to allow the icing to firm up slightly.
Cooking Tips
- Pastry Texture: If you prefer a firmer, more crumbly pastry, try reducing the amount of oil slightly. This will result in a crust that’s slightly denser and more traditional.
- Apple Variations: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for the filling. Tart apples like Granny Smith provide a nice contrast to the sweetness of the apricot jam and sugar, while sweeter varieties like Fuji can add a richer flavor to the tart.
- Storage: This tart can be stored for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the tart warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Pair it with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a comforting dessert experience.
Variations and Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Version: To make this tart gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the other ingredients are also gluten-free, especially the baking powder.
- Nutty Twist: Add some chopped almonds or walnuts to the apple filling for added crunch and flavor. This can create a delightful texture contrast with the soft apples and pastry.
- Fruit Filling: If you prefer a different fruit filling, try substituting the apples with pears or a mix of berries like raspberries and blueberries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit.
FAQs
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, this tart can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
Can I freeze this tart?
Yes, you can freeze this tart for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To thaw, leave it in the fridge overnight, and reheat in the oven to restore its crispness.
What type of apples should I use?
The best apples for baking are usually tart varieties like Granny Smith or Braeburn. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the sweet filling.
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Calcium: 20mg
- Iron: 1mg
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store the tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: To extend the shelf life, store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This Apple Shortcrust Pastry Tart is a timeless dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the buttery richness of shortcrust pastry and a glossy apricot glaze. Its simple yet flavorful ingredients make it an ideal choice for any occasion, from a cozy afternoon tea to a festive family dinner. The versatility of the filling and the crisp, delicate pastry ensures that this tart will become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this tart is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.