Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsThe French Hen CafeTarte Tatin Recipe

Tarte Tatin Recipe

Time1h 30m
Serves8

Upside-down caramelized apple tart

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Ingredients

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Pastry

Method

Pastry Preparation

  1. 1

    Make the Dough

    In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Do not overwork the dough.

  2. 2

    Chill the Dough

    Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before using.

Filling Preparation

  1. 3

    Prepare the Apples

    Peel, core, and quarter the apples. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

  2. 4

    Caramelize the Apples

    In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar, stirring until dissolved. Place the apple quarters in the skillet, packing them tightly. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized.

  3. 5

    Add Flavor

    Sprinkle cinnamon and vanilla extract over the caramelized apples, stirring gently to combine.

Assembly and Baking

  1. 6

    Preheat the Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. 7

    Roll Out the Dough

    On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle that is slightly larger than the skillet.

  3. 8

    Assemble the Tarte Tatin

    Place the rolled-out dough over the caramelized apples in the skillet, tucking the edges down around the apples.

  4. 9

    Bake

    Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

  5. 10

    Invert and Serve

    Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Carefully invert the tart onto a serving plate. Serve warm, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

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