Name: Brown Butter Apple Tart Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: CRUST:; 1¼ cups flour; 1 tbsp sugar; ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ cup cold butter; ¼ cup water; FILLING:; 4 eggs; 1 cup sugar; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp kosher salt; 16 tbsp butter; ½ cup flour; 1 tsp lemon zest; 3 green apples

This Brown Butter Apple Tart recipe is perfect for those who love the combination of sweet and tart. The recipe uses simple ingredients, but the brown butter and apple fillings elevate it to a whole new level. It's a wonderful dessert option for any occasion, and it's sure to impress your guests with its delicate balance of flavors and beautiful presentation.

Photos of Brown Butter Apple Tart Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are quite common like flour, sugar, butter, and eggs. However, you might need to look out for kosher salt, which is a special type of coarse-grained salt. It's often used in baking because it's less likely to contain additives like iodine. Plus, it has a pure, clean flavor that helps to enhance other ingredients. Another ingredient to be aware of is green apples - they're more tart than red apples, which complements the sweetness of the tart perfectly.

Ingredients for Brown Butter Apple Tart

Flour: A common ingredient for baking, providing the structure for the crust.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the tart.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.

Butter: Adds richness to the crust and filling, and is browned for depth of flavor.

Water: Combines with the flour to make the crust.

Eggs: Helps to bind the filling ingredients together.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, creamy flavor to the filling.

Lemon zest: Adds a fresh, citrus note to balance the sweetness.

Green apples: Adds a tart flavor and texture to contrast with the sweet filling.

One reader, Emmie Agnew says:

This brown butter apple tart recipe is a game-changer! The crust is perfectly flaky, and the brown butter custard is rich and flavorful. The combination of tart apples and sweet custard is divine. It's a showstopper dessert that will impress everyone. Highly recommend trying this recipe!

Emmie Agnew

Mastering the Techniques for Brown Butter Apple Tart

How to make the crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Pulse a few times to mix. Add in cold butter and pulse a few times to break the butter down into pebble-size pieces. With the food processor running, drizzle in ice water. The dough should stick together when pressed between your fingers. If the dough doesn’t stick together, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.

How to roll out the crust: Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap. Dump the dough onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a disc. Cover tightly with the plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use. On a floured surface, roll out the pie crust into a circle that is 2–3 inches (5-7.5 cm) bigger than your tart. Lift the crust into the tart pan and press against the sides of the pan. Trim the edges of the dough so that it is level with the top of the pan.

How to prepare the filling: Whisk eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a medium bowl, then set aside.

How to brown the butter: Place butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Let the butter completely melt and foam, stirring occasionally. Keep stirring as the foaming subsides and the butter begins to brown. Once the butter browns, quickly transfer it to a bowl and let it cool for 10 minutes.

How to assemble the tart: Arrange sliced apples in a spiral pattern on the pie crust. Pour the custard over the apples until the custard reaches ½ inch (1 ¼ cm) below the top of the crust (if using a 9-inch (23 cm) pan, you will have a little custard left over).

How to bake the tart: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 50 minutes (cover with foil if the top starts browning too much) or until the custard is set.

How to serve: Let the tart cool completely before slicing and serving.

How To Make Brown Butter Apple Tart

Rich in brown butter flavors, this dense apple tart is filled with tender and buttery thinly sliced green apples over a flaky homemade crust.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Crust:

1¼cupsflour,(155 g)
1tbspsugar
½tspkosher salt
½cupcold butter,(110 g), cut into small cubes
¼cupwater,(60 ml), ice

For Filling:

4eggs
1cupsugar,(200 g)
1tbspvanilla extract,such as McCormick
1tspkosher salt
16tbspbutter
½cupflour,(65 g)
1tsplemon zest
3green apples,thinly sliced

Instructions

Crust:

Combine flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Pulse a few times to mix. Add in butter and pulse a few times to break the butter down into pebble-size pieces.
With the food processor running, drizzle in ice water. The dough should stick together when pressed between fingers. If the dough doesn’t stick together, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.
Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap. Dump dough onto the plastic wrap and shape into a disc. Cover tightly with the plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Generously spray a 9 or 10-inch tart pan with nonstick spray. On a floured surface, roll out the pie crust into a circle that is 2 to 3-inches bigger than the tart.
Lift crust into the tart pan and press against the sides of the pan. Trim the edges of the dough so that it is level with the top of the pan.

Filling:

Whisk eggs, sugar, McCormick Vanilla Extract, and salt in a medium bowl, then set aside.
Place butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Let butter completely melt and foam, stirring occasionally. Keep stirring as the foaming subsides and the butter begins to brown.
Once butter browns, quickly transfer to a bowl and let cool for 10 minutes. Whisk browned butter into the egg mixture. Whisk in flour and lemon zest.
Arrange sliced apples in a spiral pattern on the pie crust. Pour custard over apples, until the custard reaches ½-inch below the top of the crust pan. There will be a little custard left over.
Place in oven and bake for 50 minutes. Cover with foil if the top starts browning too much, or until custard is set.
Let cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 581.20kcal
Fat: 36.98g
Saturated Fat: 22.59g
Trans Fat: 1.40g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.76g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.82g
Carbohydrates: 56.76g
Fiber: 2.60g
Sugar: 33.18g
Protein: 6.18g
Cholesterol: 171.54mg
Sodium: 389.90mg
Calcium: 30.86mg
Potassium: 151.13mg
Iron: 0.82mg
Vitamin A: 328.98µg
Vitamin C: 0.32mg

Pro Tip: Perfecting the Brown Butter Technique

When browning the butter, keep a close eye on it as it can go from perfectly browned to burnt in a matter of seconds. The butter will continue to cook even after you remove it from the heat, so it's a good idea to transfer it to a cool bowl as soon as it reaches the desired color. This will halt the cooking process and prevent the butter from burning. The browned butter adds a nutty, caramel-like flavor to the tart, enhancing the overall taste of the dessert.

Time-Saving Hacks for Making This Delectable Dessert

Prepare the crust: Make the crust ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use. This will save time when you're ready to assemble the tart.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly and efficiently mix the crust ingredients, saving time and effort compared to mixing by hand.

Prep the apples: Slice and prepare the apples while the crust is chilling to streamline the assembly process later.

Multi-task: While the tart is baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare other dishes to maximize efficiency.

Prep the custard: Prepare the custard while the crust is baking to save time and ensure that all components are ready for assembly.

Uniform shape: Cut the apples into uniform slices to ensure even cooking and a visually appealing tart.

Substitute Ingredients For Brown Butter Apple Tart Recipe

flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative to regular flour, adding a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the crust.
butter - Substitute with vegan butter: For a dairy-free option, vegan butter can be used as a substitute for regular butter in both the crust and filling, providing a similar richness and flavor.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan-friendly and cholesterol-free alternative to eggs, providing moisture and binding properties to the filling.
sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a lower glycemic index alternative to regular sugar, adding a hint of caramel flavor to the crust and filling.
butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used as a substitute for butter in the filling, providing a rich, nutty flavor and a slightly caramelized taste to the tart.
flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour: Gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for regular flour in the crust, providing a suitable texture and structure for those with gluten sensitivities.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter in the crust, adding a subtle coconut flavor and a flaky texture.
green apples - Substitute with granny smith apples: Granny Smith apples can be used as a substitute for green apples, providing a tart and crisp flavor that complements the sweetness of the tart.

Elevate Your Dessert Game: Presentation Tips

Elevate the tart with a drizzle of caramel sauce: A delicate drizzle of rich, golden caramel sauce adds a touch of elegance and decadence to the presentation, enhancing the flavors of the brown butter apple tart.
Garnish with edible flowers and herbs: Delicately placed edible flowers and fresh herbs not only add a pop of color but also bring a subtle, fragrant aroma to the dish, elevating the overall dining experience.
Incorporate a dusting of powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch, creating a stunning contrast against the golden brown tart and enhancing its visual appeal.
Present on a bed of vanilla bean whipped cream: Serve the brown butter apple tart on a luxurious bed of vanilla bean whipped cream, adding a creamy, indulgent element to the presentation that complements the flavors of the dessert.
Accompany with a scoop of homemade cinnamon ice cream: A quenelle of homemade cinnamon ice cream alongside the tart not only adds a delightful element of surprise but also provides a refreshing and complementary flavor to the warm, buttery notes of the dessert.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Apple Tart

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as mixing, chopping, pureeing, and blending. It is commonly used for making dough, pastry crusts, and other food preparations.
Tart pan: A tart pan is a baking dish with shallow, fluted sides and a removable bottom, designed specifically for making tarts. It helps in creating a beautifully shaped tart and allows for easy removal of the finished product.
Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a long handle and a lid, typically used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, or simmering ingredients. It is an essential tool for preparing the browned butter and other components of the recipe.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap, also known as cling film, is a thin, transparent film used to cover and protect food. In this recipe, it is used to wrap and refrigerate the dough, allowing it to rest and chill before use.
Rolling pin: A rolling pin is a cylindrical tool used to flatten and shape dough for baking. It is essential for rolling out the pie crust to the desired thickness and size for the tart.
Whisk: A whisk is a kitchen utensil used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It is necessary for mixing the egg custard and incorporating the browned butter into the filling.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food. It is required for baking the apple tart to perfection at the specified temperature.

Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Apple Tart

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the brown butter apple tart recipe:

Storing: Cover the cooled tart tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The crust may lose some of its crispness over time, but the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Freezing:
- Wrap the cooled tart tightly in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Alternatively, slice the cooled tart into individual portions, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. This allows you to thaw only the desired number of servings.
Thawing:
- To thaw the entire tart, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Unwrap and bring it to room temperature before serving.
- For individual slices, remove the desired number of wrapped portions from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour, or in the refrigerator for a couple of hours.
Reheating: If you prefer to serve the tart warm, place the thawed tart or slices on a baking sheet and reheat in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Keep an eye on the tart to prevent over-browning.

How To Reheat Leftover Apple Tart

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover brown butter apple tart on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the crust from burning and the filling from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tart is heated through and the crust is crisp.
If you prefer a crispier crust, you can also reheat the tart in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tart in the basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and the filling is heated through. Keep an eye on the tart to make sure it doesn't burn.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a slice of the tart on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-45 seconds, or until it's heated through. Be careful not to overheat the tart, as this can cause the filling to become rubbery.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your leftover tart, try warming up a scoop of vanilla ice cream and placing it on top of the warm tart. The combination of the warm, gooey filling and the cool, creamy ice cream is simply divine.
For a more indulgent treat, you can also drizzle some caramel sauce or chocolate sauce over the top of the reheated tart. This will add an extra layer of sweetness and richness to the already delicious dessert.

Surprising Fact About Brown Butter Apple Tarts

The brown butter apple tart recipe is a delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of brown butter and fresh apples. This dessert is a perfect way to showcase the flavors of fall and is a great option for a holiday gathering or special occasion. The brown butter adds a nutty and caramelized flavor to the tart, elevating the overall taste experience. Additionally, the combination of the buttery crust and the sweet apple filling creates a delightful contrast in textures. This dessert is sure to impress your guests and is a wonderful way to enjoy the seasonal bounty of apples.

Is Making This Apple Tart at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this brown butter apple tart recipe largely depends on the availability and cost of ingredients. Butter, eggs, and apples are common household items, but the quantity required may impact the overall cost. The use of vanilla extract and lemon zest could increase the cost, but these are typically pantry staples. Considering the yield and the satisfaction it brings, this recipe is a delightful indulgence for special occasions. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost: $12-15.

Is This Decadent Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?

The brown butter apple tart recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:

The crust is made with refined flour and a significant amount of butter, which are high in calories and saturated fat.
The filling contains a substantial amount of sugar, contributing to the overall calorie count and potentially leading to blood sugar spikes.
The recipe calls for 16 tablespoons (2 sticks) of butter in the filling, further increasing the saturated fat content.
While apples provide some fiber and nutrients, they are overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients in this dessert.

However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising on taste:

Swap out half of the all-purpose flour in the crust with whole wheat flour or almond flour for added fiber and nutrients.
Reduce the sugar in the filling by 1/4 to 1/2 cup, depending on the sweetness of the apples used.
Replace half of the butter in the filling with Greek yogurt or applesauce to cut down on saturated fat while maintaining a creamy texture.
Increase the number of apples used to boost the fiber and nutrient content of the tart.
Serve smaller portions and pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a protein boost and to balance out the sweetness.

Editor's Take: Why This Apple Tart Recipe Stands Out

The brown butter apple tart recipe is a delightful combination of rich, buttery flavors and sweet, tart apples. The use of brown butter adds a nutty depth to the custard filling, complementing the fresh lemon zest and vanilla. The crust is perfectly flaky and provides a wonderful base for the luscious apple and custard filling. The recipe's clear instructions make it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers, and the end result is a stunning and delicious dessert that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Brown Butter Apple Tart Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash: Try serving the brown butter apple tart with a side of roasted butternut squash, seasoned with a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and comforting accompaniment.

Grilled Pork Chops: For a heartier option, pair the brown butter apple tart with juicy grilled pork chops, marinated in a savory blend of herbs and garlic for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Caramelized Onion Soup: Warm up your meal with a bowl of rich and flavorful caramelized onion soup, topped with a crispy cheese crouton for a satisfying start to your dining experience.

Delicious Alternatives to Brown Butter Apple Tart

Savory Beef Stew: This hearty beef stew is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth, it's a comforting dish that will warm you up from the inside out.

Citrus Grilled Chicken: Marinated in a zesty citrus marinade, this grilled chicken is bursting with flavor. It's the perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.

Mango Coconut Popsicles: These refreshing popsicles are a tropical treat on a hot day. Made with fresh mango and creamy coconut milk, they're a delightful way to cool off and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is a classic comfort food. With rich, velvety texture and vibrant flavors, it's the perfect soup to enjoy with a grilled cheese sandwich or a crusty baguette.

Appetizers and Mains to Complement This Tart Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They're the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing skewers are a delightful way to start a meal. Alternating cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, they're drizzled with a balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy and rich pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety Alfredo sauce. The flavors of garlic, Parmesan, and black pepper come together to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stroganoff: Treat yourself to a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender strips of beef in a savory mushroom and onion sauce. The addition of sour cream adds a touch of tanginess and richness to this classic comfort food.

Why trust this Brown Butter Apple Tart Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any dessert enthusiast. The use of brown butter adds a rich and nutty undertone, complementing the sweetness of the apples and the buttery, flaky crust. The step-by-step instructions ensure a foolproof process, and the incorporation of vanilla extract and lemon zest adds a refreshing and aromatic touch. With its meticulous attention to detail and carefully selected ingredients, this apple tart recipe promises to deliver a delectable and impressive dessert that users can trust and enjoy.

If you enjoyed this Brown Butter Apple Tart Recipe, head over to the Recipe Sharing section to share your experience, ask questions, and discuss variations with fellow baking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

What type of apples should I use for the brown butter apple tart?

I recommend using tart and firm apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results. These apples hold their shape well and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness for the tart.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the crust ahead of time. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using it for the tart.

Is it necessary to brown the butter for the filling?

Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor to the filling, but if you prefer, you can use melted butter without browning it. However, I highly recommend taking the extra step to brown the butter for a more complex flavor profile.

Can I use a different type of pan if I don't have a tart pan?

Yes, if you don't have a tart pan, you can use a pie dish or a springform pan as an alternative. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly based on the size and depth of the pan you use.

How should I store the leftover brown butter apple tart?

Store any leftover tart in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It can be kept for up to 3-4 days. Before serving the leftovers, you can warm the tart in the oven for a few minutes to refresh it.