French Apple Pie, also known as Tarte Tatin, is a classic French dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This delicious pie features juicy apples cooked in caramel sauce and baked with a flaky pastry crust. In this article, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know to make the perfect French Apple Pie, from the ingredients to the step-by-step instructions. So let’s get started!
Ingredients for French Apple Pie
To make French Apple Pie, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 5-6 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 6-7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions for Making French Apple Pie
Follow these easy steps to make French Apple Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) pie dish.
- To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the diced butter and cut it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. Divide the dough into two pieces, with one piece slightly larger than the other.
- Roll out the larger piece of dough on a floured surface to a circle slightly larger than the pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and trim the edges.
- To make the filling, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar and water, and stir until the sugar dissolves. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until it turns into a light caramel color.
- Add the sliced apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the skillet. Cook the mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Roll out the remaining piece of dough on a floured surface to a circle slightly larger than the pie dish. Place the dough on top of the apples and trim the edges.
- Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Your French Apple Pie is now ready to enjoy!
Tips for Making Perfect French Apple Pie
- Use firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
- Be careful when making the caramel sauce, as it can burn easily. Stir the mixture constantly and remove it from the heat as soon as it turns a light caramel color.
- Serve the pie warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
French Apple Pie is a delicious and impressive dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With a flaky pastry crust and caramelized apple filling, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So why not give this recipe a try today?
