Caramel Apple Tarte Tatin Crunch (Printable Version)

French-inspired tart with caramelized apples, crisp pastry, and a sweet candy crunch topping for added delight.

# Components:

→ Caramelized Apples

01 - 6 large firm apples, peeled, cored, and quartered
02 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
04 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - Pinch of salt
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

→ Pastry

07 - 1 sheet all-butter puff pastry, about 9 ounces, thawed if frozen

→ Candy Crunch

08 - 1/3 cup granulated sugar
09 - 1 tablespoon water
10 - 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
11 - 2 tablespoons crushed hard candies (toffee, butterscotch, or caramel candies)

# Preparation steps:

01 - Set oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat while preparing ingredients.
02 - In a 9-inch ovenproof skillet or tarte Tatin pan, melt 1/2 cup sugar over medium heat without stirring until deep amber in color. Gently swirl the pan for even coloring.
03 - Stir in unsalted butter, vanilla extract, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using) until caramel mixture is smooth.
04 - Position apple quarters cut side up in the caramel, packing tightly. Simmer over medium heat for 12 to 15 minutes, occasionally basting with caramel, until apples are slightly softened and caramel thickens. Remove from heat.
05 - Roll out puff pastry to a size just larger than the skillet. Carefully drape it over cooked apples and tuck the edges down along the sides.
06 - Transfer pan to preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until pastry is golden brown and crisp.
07 - While tart bakes, line a baking sheet with parchment. In a small saucepan, combine 1/3 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon water. Cook over medium heat without stirring until golden amber. Stir in sea salt and crushed hard candies, immediately pour onto prepared sheet, and cool completely. Once set, break into small shards.
08 - Cool baked tart for 5 minutes. While still warm, invert onto a serving plate.
09 - Right before serving, scatter candy crunch shards over the tart for added sweetness and texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Combines classic caramelized apples with irresistible pastry
  • Unique candy crunch adds a sweet twist and textural contrast
02 -
  • The tart is best enjoyed the day it is made, as pastry loses crispness over time
  • Candy crunch can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container
03 -
  • Use a mix of apple varieties to balance tartness and sweetness
  • Toasted pecans or walnuts in the candy crunch add extra crunch and flavor

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