There’s something nostalgic about baking a tart from scratch — the soft aroma of apples, vanilla, and cinnamon gently wafting through the kitchen. We’ve tried several versions, but this one hits all the right notes. With a tender pâte brisée, creamy vanilla pastry cream, and thinly sliced apples nestled on top, it’s an elegant dessert that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re serving it after Sunday lunch or bringing it to a gathering, this tart never fails to impress.

French Apple Tart

This classic French apple tart recipe yields 8 generous slices and features a homemade crust and velvety crème pâtissière. It’s a bit of a project, but trust us — every step is worth it.

Servings 1 Slice

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 40

Chill Time 30

Total Time 1 40

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Ingredients

Apple Topping

2 tbsp sugar
4 medium apples
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp lemon juice

Shortcrust Pastry

250 g all purpose flour plus extra for dusting the pan
1 egg
50 g ice cold water
125 g softened unsalted butter
50 g powdered sugar
1 pinch salt

Pastry Cream

3 egg yolks
40 g cornstarch
100 g sugar
500 ml milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the shortcrust pastry.

In a bowl, mix the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth.
Gradually add the flour until crumbly.
Mix the egg and water together, then stir into the dough until combined.
Shape into a ball, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.
Roll out the dough and press into a buttered and floured tart tin.

Make the pastry cream.

In a saucepan, heat milk with vanilla until just simmering.
In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks and sugar until pale, then add cornstarch and mix.
Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking to temper.
Return mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
Transfer to a bowl, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, and let cool completely.

Assemble and Bake:

Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
Slice apples into thin wedges, then toss with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Spread cooled pastry cream into the tart shell.
Arrange apple slices decoratively on top and sprinkle with extra sugar.
Bake for 40 minutes, or until the apples are golden and tender.
Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

NOTE: Par-bake the tart shell for quicker bake time after assembly ^~^

Calories: 285kcal

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: French

Keyword: Bakery, French Flavour

Did you make this recipe?

Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below.