How to Make Tarte aux Pommes – A Classic French Apple Tart

 

--- published by foodie Parmod.

Introduction

The Tarte aux Pommes, or French apple tart, is a beloved dessert that perfectly balances buttery pastry, thinly sliced apples, and a glossy glaze. Unlike its rustic cousin, the apple pie, this elegant tart is all about refined presentation and delicate flavour. Popular in French pâtisseries and home kitchens alike, it’s ideal for afternoon tea, dinner parties, or a comforting weekend bake.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to make a traditional Tarte aux Pommes using British ingredients and simple techniques. It’s easier than it looks – and the results are delicious.

---

What Is Tarte aux Pommes?

Tarte aux Pommes is a French open-faced apple tart made with a buttery shortcrust pastry base, a layer of apple compote or frangipane, and beautifully arranged sliced apples on top. It’s baked until golden and then brushed with apricot glaze for a professional finish.

---

Ingredients

(Serves 6–8)

For the pastry (or use ready-made shortcrust):

200g plain flour

100g unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

1 tbsp caster sugar

1 egg yolk

2–3 tbsp cold water

For the filling:

3–4 firm dessert apples (e.g., Braeburn, Cox, or Pink Lady)

Juice of ½ lemon

2 tbsp caster sugar

2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

Optional: ½ tsp cinnamon or vanilla extract

For the glaze:

2 tbsp apricot jam

1 tbsp hot water

---

Optional Base Layer Variations

4 tbsp apple compote

3 tbsp almond cream (frangipane)

Thin layer of crème pâtissière

---

Method

Step 1: Make the pastry

Rub the butter into the flour and sugar with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and just enough cold water to bring the dough together. Shape into a disc, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.

Shortcut: Use good-quality shop-bought all-butter shortcrust pastry if preferred.

---

Step 2: Roll and line the tart tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas Mark 4. Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface and line a 23cm fluted tart tin. Trim the edges and prick the base with a fork.

Line the pastry with baking paper and baking beans, then blind-bake for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and bake for another 5–7 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.

---

Step 3: Prepare the apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning. If using a base layer like compote or almond cream, spread it over the pastry base now.

---

Step 4: Arrange the apples

Neatly arrange the apple slices in overlapping concentric circles starting from the outside and working inwards. Brush the apples with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar (and cinnamon or vanilla, if using).

---

Step 5: Bake the tart

Bake the tart in the centre of the oven for 35–40 minutes until the apples are tender and slightly caramelised at the edges.

---

Step 6: Glaze and serve

Gently heat the apricot jam with the hot water until melted. Brush over the warm tart for a shiny, golden finish. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

---

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of crème fraîche.

Pairs beautifully with a cup of Earl Grey or a glass of dessert wine.

---

Tips for Success

Use apples that hold their shape when baked – avoid floury or overly juicy varieties.

Chill your pastry for at least 30 minutes to prevent shrinking.

Arrange the apple slices tightly and evenly for a polished finish.

---

Make-Ahead & Storage

The tart can be made a day ahead and kept at room temperature.

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat in a low oven for 10 minutes to refresh.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elegant and simple: A beautiful dessert with minimal ingredients.

Customisable: Add frangipane, spices, or different fruits.

Perfect for all occasions: From casual tea to formal dinner.

French bakery-style finish: Thanks to the glossy glaze.

---

How to make tarte aux pommes, French apple tart recipe UK, easy apple tart with shortcrust pastry, traditional French dessert with apples, tarte aux pommes British recipe, classic apple tart step-by-step, homemade apple tart, apple dessert with apricot glaze, French apple tart for beginners.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use puff pastry instead of shortcrust?

Yes, puff pastry gives a flakier result and is commonly used in quicker versions of Tarte aux Pommes.

Can I skip the glaze?

You can, but the apricot glaze adds a professional sheen and extra sweetness. If you don’t have jam, use warmed honey as an alternative.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes – use a gluten-free shortcrust pastry mix or your preferred gluten-free pastry recipe.

---

Conclusion

Tarte aux Pommes is a timeless French dessert that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. With its crisp pastry base, tender apples, and glossy finish, it’s sure to impress guests and satisfy any sweet craving. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with a few fresh ingredients and a little care.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.

Tried this recipe?

Tag your tart on social media with #TarteAuxPommesUK – we’d love to see your creations!