A classic French upside-down caramelized apple tart with buttery pastry, perfect for a rustic dessert.
20 min prep
40 min cook
8 servings
380 kcal/serving
Ingredients
6-7 medium apples (Golden Delicious or Fuji)
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 sheet puff pastry (about 9x9 inches), thawed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Peel, core, and halve the apples.
In a 9-inch ovenproof skillet (cast iron preferred), melt butter over medium heat. Add sugar and stir until dissolved. Cook without stirring until the mixture turns a deep amber color, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
Arrange apple halves cut-side up in the caramel, packing them tightly. Return skillet to medium heat and cook for 10-12 minutes, until apples soften and release juice.
Roll out puff pastry slightly to a 10-inch circle. Drape over the apples, tucking edges down inside the skillet. Cut a few slits for steam.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until pastry is golden and puffed. Let cool in skillet for 5 minutes.
Place a serving plate over skillet and carefully invert the tart. Lift skillet off. Rearrange any apples that stuck. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips
Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet for best caramelization.
Serve with crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream.
If the caramel hardens before adding apples, warm it gently to soften.