Elegant French Custard Tart: Tarte Aux Pommes

The Tarte Aux Pommes, also known as French Apple Tart, is a classic French dessert that combines a buttery, flaky crust with a luscious, creamy custard and beautifully arranged, thinly sliced apples on top. This elegant tart is perfect for any special occasion or simply as a delightful end to a meal. The subtle sweetness and rich flavors make it a crowd favorite.

Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 2-3 tablespoons ice water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Filling:
– 3-4 medium apples (Granny Smith or any firm, tart variety), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup apricot jam, warmed
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Custard:
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
1. In a bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter and, using a pastry cutter or fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Filling:
4. While the dough is chilling, peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. Set aside.

3. Assemble the Tart:
5. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough.
6. Arrange the apple slices in a concentric circle over the crust, starting from the outer edge and working your way to the center.
7. Sprinkle the sugar and ground cinnamon over the apples.

4. Make the Custard:
8. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and remaining sugar until well combined.
9. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the arranged apples.

5. Bake the Tart:
10. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the custard is set and the apples are tender.
11. Brush the warmed apricot jam over the top of the tart for a glossy finish.

Serving:
12. Let the tart cool slightly before removing it from the pan. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy the Elegance of French Custard Tart and savor the harmonious blend of buttery crust, creamy custard, and tender apples!