Apple Walnut Tart: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Apple Walnut Tart: just the name conjures up images of cozy autumn evenings, doesn’t it? Imagine biting into a slice of warm, buttery pastry, the sweet-tartness of apples mingling perfectly with the earthy crunch of walnuts. This isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience, a comforting hug in culinary form.

Tarts, in general, have a rich history, dating back to ancient Rome. While the specific combination of apples and walnuts might not be quite that old, it certainly feels timeless. Apples, symbols of abundance and knowledge, have been paired with walnuts, a staple in many cultures, for centuries. This particular pairing likely gained popularity in regions with abundant apple orchards and walnut groves, becoming a beloved treat passed down through generations.

But what makes an Apple Walnut Tart so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures and flavors. The flaky, melt-in-your-mouth crust provides the perfect foundation for the soft, yielding apples and the satisfyingly crisp walnuts. The sweetness of the apples is beautifully balanced by the slightly bitter, nutty notes of the walnuts, creating a complex and harmonious flavor profile that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is approachable and rewarding, guaranteeing a delicious and impressive dessert every time. So, let’s get baking and create a little autumnal magic!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Crust:
• 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick, 113g) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• For the Apple Filling:
• 6 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• For the Walnut Topping:
• 1/2 cup (50g) chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional:
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Turbinado sugar, for sprinkling
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for serving

Preparing the Crust:

Okay, let’s start with the crust! This is the foundation of our delicious Apple Walnut Tart, and a good crust makes all the difference. Don’t be intimidated; it’s easier than you think!

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed, which is important for flavor.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to keep the butter cold!), cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see small pieces of butter – these are what create flaky layers!
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. The dough should start to come together but shouldn’t be wet or sticky. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
4. Form the Dough: Once the dough starts to clump together, gently gather it into a ball. If it’s too dry, add a tiny bit more ice water, a teaspoon at a time.
5. Chill the Dough: Flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out. Chilling also helps the butter solidify, which is crucial for a flaky crust. I usually chill it for an hour, or even longer if I have the time.

Preparing the Apple Filling:

While the crust is chilling, let’s get started on the apple filling. The aroma of cinnamon and apples baking is simply divine!

1. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples. I prefer to slice them about 1/4 inch thick. Thicker slices take longer to cook, while thinner slices can become mushy.
2. Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The flour helps to thicken the filling as it bakes.
3. Add Lemon Juice and Butter: Toss the apple mixture with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a touch of brightness. Dot the top of the apple mixture with small pieces of butter. This adds richness and flavor to the filling.
4. Mix Well: Gently toss all the ingredients together until the apples are evenly coated.

Preparing the Walnut Topping:

Now for the star of the show – the crunchy, nutty walnut topping! This adds a wonderful texture and flavor contrast to the sweet apple filling.

1. Combine Topping Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, melted butter, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Mix Well: Stir all the ingredients together until well combined. The mixture should be crumbly.

Assembling and Baking the Tart:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Let’s put everything together and get this tart into the oven.

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. If the dough is sticking, add a little more flour to the surface.
3. Transfer to Tart Pan: Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
4. Trim the Edges: Trim any excess dough from the edges of the pan. You can use a rolling pin to roll over the top of the pan, or simply trim with a knife.
5. Optional: Egg Wash: For a golden-brown crust, brush the edges of the tart crust with a beaten egg. This is optional, but it does give the crust a nice shine.
6. Add Apple Filling: Pour the apple filling into the prepared tart crust, spreading it evenly.
7. Sprinkle with Walnut Topping: Sprinkle the walnut topping evenly over the apple filling.
8. Optional: Turbinado Sugar: Sprinkle the edges of the crust with turbinado sugar for extra sparkle and crunch.
9. Bake: Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
10. Cool: Let the tart cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set properly.
11. Remove from Pan: Once cooled, carefully remove the tart from the tart pan by lifting it up from the removable bottom.

Serving Suggestions:

This Apple Walnut Tart is delicious on its own, but it’s even better with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle it with caramel sauce or sprinkle it with powdered sugar. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Apple Walnut Tart isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. The warm, comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes, the satisfying crunch of the walnuts against the tender apples, and the buttery, flaky crust – it all comes together in a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a classic, homemade treat. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, making it ideal for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dessert to a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday gathering.

But the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make! Don’t let the word “tart” intimidate you. I’ve broken down each step to ensure even beginner bakers can achieve a beautiful and delicious result. And trust me, the effort is well worth it. The look on your loved ones’ faces when they take their first bite will be priceless.

Looking for serving suggestions? A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting slowly over a warm slice of this Apple Walnut Tart is pure heaven. Or, for a more sophisticated touch, try pairing it with a dollop of crème fraîche or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a lovely finishing touch.

Variations to Make it Your Own

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Granny Smith apples will give you a tart and tangy flavor, while Honeycrisp apples offer a sweeter, more delicate taste. You can also substitute pecans or almonds for the walnuts, depending on your preference. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free pie crust. And if you’re short on time, a store-bought crust works perfectly well too!

Another fun variation is to add a touch of spice to the apple filling. A pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even a dash of cardamom can elevate the flavor profile and add a warm, inviting aroma. You could also incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and a burst of sweetness.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What truly sets this Apple Walnut Tart apart is the combination of simple ingredients and thoughtful techniques. The key to a perfect tart is to use high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the details. Don’t skimp on the butter for the crust, and be sure to use fresh, ripe apples. And remember to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling it out – this will help prevent it from shrinking during baking.

I’ve poured my heart and soul into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a recipe that’s been passed down through my family for generations, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake! I promise you won’t regret it.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made your own Apple Walnut Tart, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your photos and comments on social media using #AppleWalnutTartRecipe. Let me know what variations you tried and how it turned out. I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy baking!