RUSTIC APPLE TART

A Rustic Apple Tart is the perfect dessert for when you want something simple yet elegant. With its free-form crust and juicy apple filling, this tart offers all the comfort of a homemade apple pie but with a more laid-back, charming presentation. The flaky, buttery crust wraps around tender apples spiced with cinnamon and sugar, giving each bite a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Ideal for fall gatherings or a cozy treat with a cup of tea, this tart is easy to make and a beautiful way to showcase fresh apples.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the filling:

• 3 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Coarse sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Set aside.
3. Roll out the dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Assemble the tart: Arrange the apple slices in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Dot the apples with the small pieces of butter. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as you go.
5. Brush and bake: Brush the folded edges of the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle the crust with coarse sugar. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Serve: Let the tart cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra treat.

This Rustic Apple Tart is a delicious and visually stunning dessert that’s easy to make and full of comforting fall flavors!