Apple Tart Recipes, Baking Tips & Pointers

In this article, explore the delicious world of apple tarts, and discover valuable baking tips and pointers along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, we have two delectable apple tart recipes to satisfy your cravings, and among them is our special gem—the English Apple Tart recipe.

It’s thought that the first recorded apple tart recipe featured in a French cookbook in the late 14th century. The apple tart, or “tarte aux pommes” as it is known in French, captivated the palates of French nobility with its harmonious blend of buttery pastry, thinly sliced apples, and delicate spices.

Since then, this delicious creation has transcended borders and captured the hearts of baking enthusiasts and dessert lovers worldwide. Its irresistible combination of sweet and tangy flavours, coupled with its versatility, has firmly established the apple tart as a beloved culinary treasure across the globe.

Today, apple tarts continue to be adored and cherished, bringing joy to countless homes and cafes alike. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or savoured alongside a comforting cup of tea, these timeless treats never fail to evoke a sense of nostalgia and delight.

The essential ingredients in an apple tart include:

For that perfect touch of sweetness in your apple tart, look no further than Tate & Lyle Caster Sugar or Tate & Lyle Granulated Sugar. Known for their superior quality and fine texture, Tate & Lyle sugars dissolve easily, ensuring a smooth and evenly sweetened filling.

The delicate caramel notes of caster sugar or the larger granules of granulated sugar add depth and complexity to the flavour profile of your tart, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples.

Explore our range of Tate & Lyle sugars and syrups and be sure to stock up before getting started.

Be mindful not to overstuff your tart with apples, as this can lead to an uneven bake, a soggy crust, and compromised texture.

Choosing the right type of apple is crucial for a successful apple tart. Avoid using overly soft or mealy apples, as they can turn mushy during baking. Opt for firm and crisp apples that hold their shape and provide a pleasant texture in your finished tart.

Neglecting to season the filling can result in a bland or less flavourful outcome. Enhance the flavour of your apple tart by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, and a hint of lemon zest.

To achieve the perfect crumbly texture, cut cold butter into small pieces then use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

To enhance the flavour and appearance of your apple tart, brush the apples with a glaze made from melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon juice before baking.

To prevent excessive browning or burning of the crust edges, cover them with aluminium foil or a pie crust shield during baking. This simple step ensures that the crust cooks evenly.

Indulge in the timeless elegance of classic English apple tarts, a delightful creation that pays homage to tradition. With just 50 minutes of prep time and 55 minutes of baking, this apple tart recipe encapsulates the essence of simplicity and sophistication.

Enjoy the ultimate dessert experience with our sweet apple pie, a delightful alternative to an apple tart. With just 45 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of baking, this pie embodies homemade perfection, with its tender apples perfectly spiced, and enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust.