Caramelized Apple Tarte Tatin

The Caramelized Apple Tarte Tatin is a classic French upside-down tart, featuring buttery, caramelized apples arranged in a golden, glossy pattern, sitting atop a crisp and flaky puff pastry crust. The apples are slow-cooked in sugar and butter, creating a deeply caramelized, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

For the Apple Caramel Base

5 large apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady)

½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

1 tbsp lemon juice (to prevent browning)

For the Pastry

1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)

1 egg yolk (for egg wash)

1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

For Serving

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Caramel sauce (optional)

Fresh mint leaves (optional for garnish)

Prepare the Apples

Peel and Slice Apples:

Peel apples, remove cores, and cut into thick slices or halves.
Toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.

Make the Caramel

Melt Butter and Sugar:
- In a heavy oven-proof skillet (preferably a cast iron pan, 9-10 inches), melt butter and sugar over medium heat.
Caramelize the Apples:
- Once the sugar turns golden and starts to bubble (about 3-5 minutes), arrange apple slices in a circular pattern in the pan.
- Cook for 10 minutes, occasionally spooning the caramel over the apples.
Add Flavor:
- Sprinkle with cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Prepare the Pastry

Preheat the Oven:
- Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll Out the Puff Pastry:
- Lightly flour your work surface and roll out puff pastry slightly larger than the pan.
Cover the Apples:
- Carefully lay the pastry over the apples, tucking the edges into the pan.
Brush with Egg Wash:
- Mix egg yolk with milk and brush over the pastry.

Bake and Flip the Tarte

Bake Until Golden:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.
Cool Slightly:
- Let the tart cool for 5 minutes, then place a large serving plate over the pan.
Invert Carefully:
- Using oven mitts, quickly flip the pan upside down onto the plate.

Serve and Garnish

Slice the Tarte Tatin:
- Cut into equal wedges.
Add Ice Cream & Garnish:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh mint.

Pro Tips

For the Best Apples: Use firm apples that hold their shape when caramelized.
To Avoid Burning: Cook the caramel over medium heat and stir occasionally.
For Extra Crispiness: Bake the tart for an additional 5 minutes after flipping for a caramelized top.

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Caramelized Apple Tarte Tatin