Tarte Tatin (Upside-Down Apple Tart)
Tarte Tatin is a French upside-down apple tart with caramel-coated apples and crisp puff pastry turned out while warm.
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1 hr 10 mintotal
1 hr hands-on10 min hands-off
Prep 20 min · Cook 40 min
- Serves
- 2
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Spice
- None
Ingredients
Quantities are for 2 servings.
You'll need: Stovetop, Oven.
Includes 10 minutes of cooling before unmolding; turn the tart out while the caramel is still warm enough to release.
Method
Heat the oven to 200°C. Roll or trim the puff pastry sheet so it is slightly larger than the pan.
Melt the sugar in an oven-safe pan over medium heat until it turns amber. Add the measured butter carefully and stir into a caramel.
Add the apple wedges, lemon juice, and salt. Cook until the apples begin to soften and are coated in caramel.
Arrange the apples neatly in the caramel. Place the puff pastry over the apples and tuck the edges inside the pan.
Bake until the pastry is puffed and golden. Let the tart cool for about 10 minutes.
10 min
Place a plate over the pan and carefully invert the tart while the caramel is still warm.
How to tell it's done
The apples should be glossy and tender, with a crisp golden pastry underneath after turning.
Getting it right
Tip
Do not wait too long before unmoulding; the caramel should be warm enough to release from the pan.
What to serve it with
Serve warm on its own or with cream, vanilla ice cream, or lightly whipped cream.
Common mistakes
- The caramel hardens in the pan or the tart collapses.
- Cool only briefly, then invert while warm and use a firm plate that fully covers the pan.
Substitutions
- Firm, slightly tart apples work best because they hold their shape in caramel.
- Shortcrust Pastry can replace Puff Pastry Sheets for a denser tart base.
- Use dairy-free pastry and butter alternative only after checking labels; texture and allergen status may change.
Storing and reheating
Store tarte Tatin covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Rewarm in the oven to revive the pastry; freezing is not recommended.
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