Apple and Jam Tart

The apple and jam tart is a classic and delicious dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with the fragrance of jam. Here I present you with an Italian twist, using, for example, apricot jam, which pairs well with the apples. Here are the ingredients and the method:

Ingredients

For the shortcrust pastry:

  • 300 g of type 00 flour
  • 150 g of cold butter, cubed
  • 150 g of sugar
  • 1 whole egg and 1 yolk
  • Grated zest of 1 lemon
  • A pinch of salt

For the filling:

  • 3-4 apples (Golden or your preferred variety)
  • Apricot jam, about 200 g
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Brown or granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
  • A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
  • Butter (for the tart pan)

Preparation

  1. Shortcrust Pastry: Place the flour in a mound on a pastry board, add the cold cubed butter, sugar, the whole egg and yolk, grated lemon zest, and salt. Work the ingredients quickly to achieve a smooth and homogeneous dough. Wrap the shortcrust pastry in cling film and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

  2. Preparing the Apples: In the meantime, peel the apples, remove the core and cut them into thin slices. Place them in a bowl with the lemon juice to prevent them from browning.

  3. Assembly: Take a tart pan, butter it and flour it. Roll out about two-thirds of the pastry with a rolling pin and line the pan, creating an edge. Prick the bottom with a fork.

  4. Adding the Jam: Spread a uniform layer of apricot jam on the bottom of the shortcrust pastry.

  5. Arranging the Apples: Arrange the apple slices over the jam, creating a spiral from the outside in. If desired, you can sprinkle the apples with a little brown sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.

  6. Covering with Pastry: Roll out the remaining pastry and cut into strips or shapes of your choice to decorate the surface of the tart.

  7. Baking: Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C (356 °F) for about 40-45 minutes, or until the tart is golden and the apples are cooked.

  8. Cooling and Serving: Let the tart cool before unmolding and serving. You can sprinkle with powdered sugar before bringing it to the table for a final touch.

The apple and jam tart is perfect for a snack or as an end to a meal, perhaps accompanied by a scoop of cream ice cream. And for an extra touch, pair it with an Italian Passito or a sweet wine that contrasts pleasantly with the acidity of the apples and the sweetness of the jam.

Apple and Jam Tart