Craving a dessert that’s both elegant and easy? The Spanish Apple Tart, or tarta de manzana, combines a buttery shortcrust pastry, creamy custard, and caramelized apples into a treat that’ll impress your guests. Rooted in Spain’s rich culinary heritage, this tart brings Mediterranean warmth to your table. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just treating yourself, you’ll find this recipe simple yet sophisticated. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in just over an hour.
Easy Spanish Apple Tart Recipe
Before you start, gather your ingredients and tools. This recipe serves eight, with each slice clocking in at about 290 calories. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a golden, glistening apple tart ready to steal the show.
Ingredients for Tarta de Manzana
- 1 sheet of ready-rolled shortcrust pastry
- 2 medium apples (Golden Delicious or similar), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons golden caster sugar (plus 1 tablespoon for sprinkling)
- 150ml single cream
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apricot jam (for glazing)
Equipment Needed for Spanish Apple Tart
- 9-inch tart tin
- Baking paper
- Baking beans
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spanish Apple Tart
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch tart tin.
- Line the tart tin with the shortcrust pastry, trim any excess, and prick the base with a fork.
- Place baking paper over the pastry, fill with baking beans, and blind bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove the paper and beans, then bake for 5 more minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool slightly.
- In a bowl, whisk eggs, 3 tablespoons sugar, cream, cinnamon, and vanilla until smooth.
- Pour the custard mixture into the cooled tart shell.
- Arrange apple slices in a spiral pattern over the custard.
- Sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar over the apples.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the custard sets and apples are lightly caramelized.
- Heat apricot jam gently and brush over warm apples for a glossy glaze.
- Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Prep and Nutrition Information for Apple Tart
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Calories: 290 kcal per serving
Servings: 8
“A good dessert is like a warm hug, and this Spanish Apple Tart wraps you in layers of creamy custard and sweet apples.” – Anonymous Foodie
The History and Cultural Significance of Tarta de Manzana
The Spanish Apple Tart has deep roots in Spain’s culinary tapestry, often called tarta de manzana in local cafes. Its origins likely trace back to European baking traditions, with Spain’s abundant apple harvests shaping its popularity. You’ll find it gracing tables during family gatherings, holidays, or even casual afternoons. For more on Spanish culinary traditions, Spain’s gastronomy is a treasure trove of flavors. This tart’s simplicity makes it a timeless favorite across generations.
Why does this Spanish dessert hold such a special place? It’s a staple in Spanish homes because it balances rustic charm with refined taste. Often served at celebrations, it brings people together with its warm, comforting flavors. Unlike heavier desserts, its light custard and fruit-forward profile make it versatile. You can almost picture a sunny Spanish patio, with this tart as the star of the show.
| Dessert | Key Ingredients | Occasion |
|---|---|---|
| Spanish Apple Tart | Apples, custard, pastry | Everyday, holidays |
| Flan | Eggs, milk, caramel | Celebrations |
| Churros | Dough, sugar | Breakfast, fairs |
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Spanish Apple Tart
Selecting the best ingredients is key to a stellar Spanish Apple Tart. For apples, Golden Delicious strikes a perfect sweet-tart balance, but Granny Smith adds a zesty kick, and Honeycrisp brings extra sweetness. The right apple ensures a tender, flavorful topping that holds its shape. Curious about the nutritional benefits of apples? They’re packed with fiber and antioxidants, making this dessert a tad healthier.
Ready-rolled shortcrust pastry is a time-saver, delivering a buttery, flaky base. If you’re feeling ambitious, make your own by mixing flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, then chilling the dough for 30 minutes. Either way, keep the pastry cold to avoid a tough crust. A well-made crust is the foundation of this tarta de manzana’s charm. You’ll love how it crumbles just right with every bite.
The custard, made from eggs, cream, and sugar, is the heart of the tart. Cinnamon and vanilla extract add warmth, while the apricot glaze gives a glossy finish and a hint of sweetness. Use fresh, room-temperature eggs for a silky texture. The glaze is optional but elevates the tart’s look, making it Instagram-worthy. With these ingredients, you’re set for success.
- Peel apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Slice apples thinly for a delicate spiral design.
- Use room-temperature eggs for smoother custard.
- Warm jam slightly for easy brushing.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Spanish Apple Tart
Blind baking is your secret weapon against a soggy crust. By pre-baking the pastry with baking beans, you ensure a crisp base that holds the custard perfectly. No baking beans? Use dried rice or lentils instead. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil. This step is crucial for a professional-quality apple tart.
Arranging apple slices in a spiral pattern sounds fancy, but it’s easier than you think. Start from the center and work outward, overlapping slightly, like a blooming flower. For a simpler look, lay slices in neat rows. Either way, your Spanish Apple Tart will look stunning. Take your time, and you’ll nail the presentation.
A perfect custard is all about technique. Whisk the eggs, cream, and sugar until smooth to avoid lumps, and don’t overmix. The custard is set when it has a slight jiggle in the center—overbaking makes it rubbery. Check early to keep it creamy. With these tips, your tarta de manzana will taste as good as it looks.
“Baking is an art, but it’s also a science. Get the custard right, and your tart will sing.” – Spanish Pastry Chef
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Soggy crust | Underbaked pastry | Blind bake longer |
| Runny custard | Underbaked | Bake until set |
| Burnt apples | High heat | Lower oven rack |
Serving and Storing Your Spanish Dessert
Serve your Spanish Apple Tart slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Pair it with coffee, tea, or a glass of Spanish dessert wine for a true Mediterranean vibe. For a fancy touch, dust with powdered sugar or add a mint sprig. Your guests will be wowed. Want balanced diet tips? Enjoy this treat in moderation as part of a varied diet.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To freeze, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it’ll keep for 3 months. Reheat in a 325°F oven to restore its crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy. With proper storage, you can savor this Spanish dessert later.
- Pair with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Serve with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped almonds for crunch.
Nutritional Information for Spanish Apple Tart
Each serving of this Spanish Apple Tart has about 290 calories, with 35g carbs, 15g fat, and 5g protein. Apples provide fiber and vitamins, while eggs add protein, making it a slightly nutritious treat. Still, the sugar and cream call for moderation. Check the table below for a full breakdown. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Need dietary tweaks? For a gluten-free version, swap the pastry for a gluten-free alternative. Dairy-free? Use coconut milk instead of cream. To cut sugar, reduce the caster sugar or try a natural sweetener like stevia. These swaps let everyone enjoy this tarta de manzana without missing out.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 kcal |
| Carbs | 35g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 5g |
Frequently Asked Questions About Spanish Apple Tart
What apples are best for a Spanish Apple Tart? Golden Delicious or Granny Smith work wonderfully, offering a sweet-tart balance that holds up during baking. Honeycrisp is another great choice for a sweeter bite. Choose firm apples to keep the slices intact.
Can I make the tart ahead of time? Absolutely, you can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Alternatively, freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently before serving to bring back its fresh-baked charm.
How do I prevent a soggy crust? Blind baking is key—make sure to bake the pastry until lightly golden. Also, avoid an overly wet custard by measuring ingredients precisely. A crisp crust makes all the difference.
Can I use puff pastry instead of shortcrust? Yes, puff pastry creates a flakier, lighter base, but it’s less sturdy. Adjust baking time slightly, as it browns faster. It’s a fun twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
- How long does it take to cool the apple tart? About 30 minutes for room temperature.
- Can I skip the apricot glaze? Yes, but it adds shine and flavor.
- What if I don’t have a tart tin? Use a pie dish, but the shape may differ slightly.
Why You’ll Love This Spanish Apple Tart
The Spanish Apple Tart is a dessert that checks all the boxes: easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress. Its golden crust, creamy custard, and caramelized apples create a harmony that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or a quiet night in, this tarta de manzana fits the bill. Plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak for dietary needs. You’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Ready to get baking? Try this Spanish dessert recipe and share your masterpiece with friends or family. Head over to our site for more delicious recipes and baking tips. Subscribe to our newsletter for fresh recipe ideas delivered straight to your inbox. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!