Tarte Tatin

DifficultyBeginner

Discover the rich, caramelized goodness of Tarte Tatin—a classic French upside-down apple tart with golden pastry and buttery caramel. Perfect for dessert lovers craving a rustic yet elegant treat.

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Tarte Tatin
Yields8 Servings
Prep Time20 minsCook Time40 minsTotal Time1 hr
For the caramelized apples
 6 firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and halved
 ½ cup granulated sugar
 ¼ cup unsalted butter
 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
 Pinch of salt
For the pastry
 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), slightly thawed if frozen
Preheat Oven
1

Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Use a 9-inch oven-safe skillet or cake pan.

Caramelize the Sugar
2

In your skillet, melt sugar over medium heat until it turns a light amber. Add butter and stir to create a smooth caramel. Add vanilla and a pinch of salt.

Add Apples
3

Arrange halved apples rounded-side down into the caramel. Pack tightly—they shrink while cooking. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until they begin to soften and are coated in caramel. Remove from heat.

Add Pastry
4

Roll the puff pastry slightly larger than the skillet and lay it over the apples, tucking the edges down inside. Poke a few holes in the top with a knife or fork to allow steam to escape.

Bake
5

Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the pastry is golden and puffed.

Cool & Invert
6

Let the tart rest for 10 minutes. Place a plate larger than the skillet on top and carefully invert the tart onto the plate (be cautious—hot caramel!).

Pairing Suggestions
7
  • Serve with a dollop of crème fraîche, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream.

  • Pair with dessert wines like Sauternes or a dry Riesling.

  • For coffee lovers, try a latte or espresso alongside.

Ingredients

For the caramelized apples
 6 firm apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and halved
 ½ cup granulated sugar
 ¼ cup unsalted butter
 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
 Pinch of salt
For the pastry
 1 sheet puff pastry (store-bought or homemade), slightly thawed if frozen
Tarte Tatin