Indulge in a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also captivates the eyes—introducing the exquisite Apple Rose Tart with Maple Custard and Walnut Crust! This stunning tart, with its elegant rose-like apple slices, is a showstopper for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a sophisticated dinner party. Imagine the warm aroma of baked apples and the rich sweetness of maple custard wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to take a bite. Best of all, this gluten-free treat is surprisingly easy to make, and with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a masterpiece that will leave your guests in awe. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups walnuts
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 apples, thinly sliced
- 1 cup milk
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom by lightly greasing it with coconut oil.
- For the walnut crust, place walnuts in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Add maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and salt. Process until the mixture becomes a cohesive, slightly sticky crumb.
- Press the walnut mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of the prepared tart pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to create an even layer. Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant. Remove and let cool completely.
- For the maple custard, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until pale and slightly thickened.
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to steam. Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs and prevent curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Thinly slice the apples using a mandoline or sharp knife, making sure the slices are nearly translucent and uniform.
- Pour the cooled maple custard into the walnut crust, spreading it evenly.
- Starting from the outer edge of the tart, arrange apple slices in a circular, overlapping pattern to create a rose-like design. Slightly curl and layer the apple slices to mimic rose petals.
- Optional: Brush the apple roses with a little additional maple syrup for extra shine and sweetness.
- Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes, or until the apple edges are slightly crisp and the custard is set.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely. Carefully remove from the tart pan and transfer to a serving plate.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with additional maple syrup before serving. Best served slightly warm or at room temperature.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Their contrasting flavors will enhance the overall taste of the tart.
- Slice Apples Thinly: Use a mandoline slicer for uniform, thin apple slices. This not only helps with the presentation but also ensures even cooking, allowing the apples to soften beautifully without losing their shape.
- Don’t Rush the Custard: When making the maple custard, be patient and stir continuously over low heat. This slow cooking process will help you achieve a silky, creamy texture without curdling the eggs.
- Cool the Crust Completely: Allow the walnut crust to cool completely before adding the custard. This prevents the custard from cooking further and ensures a perfect texture.
- Create Beautiful Apple Roses: When arranging the apple slices, start from the outer edge and work your way in, overlapping the slices slightly. This technique mimics the petals of a rose and makes for a stunning presentation.
- Add a Glaze for Shine: For an extra touch of elegance, brush the apple roses with a little maple syrup before baking. This will not only enhance the flavor but also give your tart a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Serve Warm or Room Temperature: This tart is best served slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld and the custard to set perfectly. Enjoy it as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar for a sweet touch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 95mg
