The Caramel Apple Pecan Tart Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2-3 firm apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith)
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (such as dulce de leche or caramel ice cream topping)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

Make the Pastry Crust:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners' sugar.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add granulated sugar, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
5. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Make the Filling:

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped pecans and cinnamon.
4. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assemble the Tart:

1. Roll out chilled pastry dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. Transfer dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. Arrange caramelized apple mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.

Add the Caramel Sauce:

1. Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the apples and pecans.
2. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
3. Brush pastry with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for a golden glaze.

Bake the Tart:

1. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
2. Allow tart to cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Note: To make ahead, bake tart up to a day in advance; store at room temperature.