Caramel Apple Galette
A sweet and savory tart that combines the tender flavors of apples with the crunch of a buttery pastry crust.
Ingredients:
For the Pastry Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the Pastry Crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until apples are evenly coated with dry ingredients.
- Spread the apple mixture over the center of the pastry crust, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
- Dot the top of the galette with melted butter and sprinkle with sugar.
- Make the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until caramel turns a deep amber color (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Bake the galette for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
- Drizzle the warm galette with caramel sauce while it's still slightly hot. Serve warm, topped with additional caramel sauce if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- To ensure a crispy crust, chill the pastry dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- For an extra-golden crust, brush the edges of the galette with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water) before baking.
- Experiment with different types of apples or add other spices to create a unique flavor profile.