Caramel Apple Tartlets

Servings:

• 24 miniature tartlets

Ingredients:

For the Pastry Crust

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For the Filling

• 3-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

For the Caramel Drizzle

• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

Instructions:

To Make the Pastry Crust:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners' sugar, and salt.
2. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingertips to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually pour in ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
4. Wrap in plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

To Prepare the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Toss to coat; set aside.

To Assemble the Tartlets:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out chilled pastry dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
3. Cut into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Spoon a small amount of apple filling onto one half of each circle; fold in half to form a triangle.
5. Press edges together with a fork to seal.

To Bake the Tartlets:

1. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water).
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

To Make the Caramel Drizzle:

1. In a small saucepan, combine heavy cream, butter, and granulated sugar.
2. Bring to a boil over medium heat; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until caramel thickens slightly.

Assembly and Serving:

1. Allow tartlets to cool completely on a wire rack.
2. Drizzle with caramel sauce just before serving.