Apple Tart Recipe
Pardeep Singh
| 20-03-2026
· Cate team
We all love desserts that feel cozy and comforting. Among them, nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked apples and butter filling a kitchen. Today, we’re making a rustic apple tart that’s simpler than a traditional pie because it only has a bottom crust.
This tart is perfect for cozy afternoons, a casual get-together with friends, or simply treating ourselves. Even if we’re not professional bakers, we can create something impressive with basic tools—a regular pizza tray is all we need.
With carefully chosen apples, a flaky crust, and a glossy finish, every slice is both beautiful and delicious.

Ingredients for Our Apple Tart

Before we start, let’s gather everything we need:
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/4 cups (160 g)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (115 g), cold and cut into small cubes
- Ice water: 3–5 tablespoons
- Apples: 3 medium (450–500 g), peeled, cored, and sliced about 1/16 inch thick
- Granulated sugar: 2 tablespoons (for topping)
- Apricot jam: 2 tablespoons, mixed with 1 teaspoon water for glaze
- Optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves for a warm, seasonal flavor
With these ingredients ready, we can move step by step to create a tart that looks bakery-level but is easy for us to make at home.

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of flour with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
3. Add 1/2 cup of cold cubed butter. Using a fork or pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add 3–5 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time. Mix gently until the dough comes together into a ball.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 10–15 minutes.
This step is essential because it ensures the crust will be flaky and tender, holding the apples beautifully while baking.

Step 2: Roll Out and Shape the Crust

1. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the chilled dough into a 13-inch circle.
2. Carefully transfer the dough onto an ungreased 12-inch pizza tray.
3. Fold the edges slightly to create a rustic border. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a slightly uneven edge adds charm and a homemade feel.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

1. Peel, core, and slice 3 medium apples into thin 1/16-inch slices.
2. Arrange the slices in a circular pattern starting from the outer edge, slightly overlapping each slice.
3. For the next layer, alternate the direction to create a textured, eye-catching look.
4. Continue layering until the entire base is covered.
Using thin, uniform slices ensures that the apples cook evenly, while overlapping them gives the tart an elegant, professional appearance.

Step 4: Add Butter and Sugar

1. Melt 1–2 tablespoons of butter and brush evenly over the apple slices.
2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar on top.
3. Optionally, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
This simple step adds richness, sweetness, and a lightly caramelized finish to the tart.

Step 5: Bake the Tart

1. Place the tart in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 40–50 minutes, until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
3. Keep an eye on the edges—if they brown too quickly, we can cover them lightly with foil.
The aroma of baked apples and butter will fill the kitchen, making it hard to wait until it’s ready!

Step 6: Glaze for a Beautiful Shine

1. Mix 2 tablespoons of apricot jam with 1 teaspoon water.
2. Brush the glaze over the warm apple slices to give them a shiny, appetizing finish.
3. Serve the tart warm for the best flavor and texture.
The glaze makes the tart look glossy and inviting, almost like it came from a bakery.

Optional Variations

- Pears instead of apples: Bosc or Anjou pears provide a soft, sweet alternative.
- Seasonal fruits: In summer, peaches, plums, or apricots can replace apples for a fruity twist.
- Warm spices: Adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves enhances the tart for autumn or winter occasions.
We can experiment with these variations to keep the tart fresh and exciting throughout the year.

Storing Leftovers

1. Let the tart cool completely to room temperature.
2. Store leftovers in a sealed container or wrapped in plastic.
3. Keep on the counter for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
4. Reheat slightly before serving to bring back the freshly-baked taste.

Final Thoughts

Lykkers, this apple tart is simple, rustic, and full of flavor. Each slice gives us tender, juicy apples and a golden, buttery crust.
Baking this tart is always a joy, and it’s perfect for enjoying at home, sharing with friends, or bringing a little extra warmth to family gatherings. Next time we crave a dessert that looks beautiful, tastes incredible, and feels cozy, this apple tart is our go-to treat. Let’s bake it, savor it, and share the delicious moments together!

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Video by Food Channel L | Lora Naydenova