Granny Smith Apple Tart

Granny Smith Apple Tart Recipe - Delicious Dessert from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

History

The Granny Smith Apple Tart recipe has been passed down through generations, originating from the famous Granny Smith apple variety that was first discovered in Australia in the 1860s. Named after Maria Ann Smith, who cultivated the apple, the Granny Smith apple is known for its crisp texture and tart flavor, making it the perfect choice for this delectable tart.

Ingredients

1 refrigerated fill-and-bake pie crust (7 to 7.5 oz (213 g))
3 large granny smith apples (about 1.5 lb (680 g) total), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
0.25 cup packed brown sugar (Consider substituting your favorite sweetener for the brown sugar.)
0.25 cup sour half-and-half, or 0.25 cup non-fat sour cream
1 tbsp quick-cooking tapioca
1.5 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp granulated sugar (Consider substituting your favorite sweetener for the sugar.)

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Place the pie crust into a tart pan with a removable bottom, measuring 9 inches in diameter. Press the crust against the fluted edge and trim off any pastry that extends over the top.
Roll the trimmed dough into a ball and flatten it to a thickness of 0.25 inch. Use a cookie cutter to cut out 2 or 3 shapes from the dough.
Using a fork, prick the tart shell in several places.
In a large bowl, place the sliced apples. Drizzle them with lemon juice and toss to mix.
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, sour half-and-half, tapioca, and cinnamon.
Fold the brown sugar mixture into the apples until all the fruit is coated.
Spoon the apples into the tart shell and arrange the dough shapes on top of the apples.
Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top.
Bake for 35 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
Cut the tart into 8 equal slices.
Serve the tart hot or at room temperature.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added crunch.
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the tart for a sweet and sticky finish.
Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a burst of sweetness in every bite.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to peel, core, and thinly slice the apples for even cooking.

- Toss the apples in lemon juice to prevent them from browning.

- Use a tart pan with a removable bottom for easy removal and serving.

- Prick the tart shell with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.

- Sprinkle sugar on top of the tart before baking for a sweet, caramelized finish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Granny Smith Apple Tart warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert experience.

Cooking Techniques

Preheat the oven to the correct temperature to ensure even baking.

- Use a tart pan with a removable bottom for easy removal and serving.

- Toss the apples in lemon juice to prevent them from browning before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use a homemade pie crust instead of a refrigerated one for a flakier texture.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangy twist.

- Swap out brown sugar for maple syrup or honey for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the tart up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for a fresh and warm dessert.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the apple slices in a decorative pattern on top of the tart before baking for a visually appealing presentation. Dust with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Granny Smith Apple Tart with a glass of sparkling cider or a hot cup of tea for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Granny Smith Apple Tart contains approximately 200 calories, making it a moderate calorie dessert option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Granny Smith Apple Tart contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and energy-boosting dessert option.

Fats

With only 6 grams of fat per serving, Granny Smith Apple Tart is a relatively low-fat dessert choice that can be enjoyed guilt-free.

Proteins

This dessert contains minimal protein, with only 1 gram per serving. Pair it with a protein-rich main dish for a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Granny Smith apples are a good source of vitamin C, providing a boost to your immune system. They also contain fiber, which aids in digestion.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream) and gluten (pie crust), so it may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Granny Smith Apple Tart is a delicious dessert option that is relatively low in fat and calories, making it a guilt-free treat for any occasion.

Summary

Granny Smith Apple Tart is a classic dessert that combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the sweetness of brown sugar and cinnamon, all baked in a flaky pie crust. This delicious treat is perfect for any occasion and can be customized with various toppings and mix-ins for a unique flavor profile. Enjoy this delightful dessert warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother had invited me into her cozy kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for our family gathering that evening.

As I stood by her side, watching her deftly peel and slice the tart Granny Smith apples, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and expertise. She moved with such grace and confidence, as if she had been making this dessert her entire life. And perhaps she had, for she had a wealth of knowledge and experience when it came to cooking and baking.

I asked her where she had learned to make such a delicious dessert, and she simply smiled and replied, "Oh, my dear, I have learned many recipes from various places and people over the years. This particular recipe for Granny Smith Apple Tart was passed down to me by my own grandmother, who learned it from a dear friend who hailed from the neighboring village."

As she continued to work, measuring out flour, sugar, and butter with precision, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the rich culinary heritage that had been passed down through the generations. I was eager to learn as much as I could from my grandmother, to absorb her knowledge and skills like a sponge.

Together, we assembled the tart, layering the crisp apple slices in a buttery pastry crust and sprinkling them with cinnamon and sugar. The scent of the baking tart filled the kitchen, a sweet and spicy aroma that made my mouth water in anticipation.

When the tart emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, my grandmother carefully removed it and allowed it to cool on the countertop. She then sliced it into wedges and served it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The first bite was pure bliss – the tart apples, tender and slightly tangy, paired perfectly with the flaky crust and sweet cinnamon sugar.

As we enjoyed our dessert together, my grandmother shared more stories with me about her own culinary adventures and the many recipes she had collected over the years. She spoke of the time she had spent working in a bustling bakery in the city, learning the art of pastry making from a stern but talented French chef. She recounted the summer she had spent in Italy, studying the art of pasta making from a wise old nonna in a tiny village nestled in the hills.

Each story was a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration, a glimpse into the world of food and cooking that my grandmother had explored with passion and dedication. And with each tale, I felt a deeper connection to her and to the culinary traditions that had shaped our family for generations.

As I grew older, I continued to hone my own skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes and techniques while always keeping my grandmother's teachings close to heart. And whenever I make that special Granny Smith Apple Tart, I am reminded of that day in her kitchen, of the love and wisdom she imparted to me, and of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with those we hold dear.