Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry (thawed)
- ½ apple (such as Envy, Honeycrisp, Granny Smith)
- 4 tablespoons light brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon apple pie spice (a blend usually containing cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice)
- 1 egg (beaten, optional for egg wash)
- Turbinado sugar (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Slice the apple: Peel the apple, remove the core, and cut it into 24 thin slices using half an apple to ensure even cooking and layering.
- Mix the sugar and spice: In a bowl, combine the light brown sugar with the apple pie spice, stirring until the mixture is evenly blended to add warmth and sweetness to the apples.
- Prepare the puff pastry: Cut the thawed puff pastry sheet into 6 equal pieces, approximately 3 inches by 4.5 inches each. Roll out slightly if needed and brush off any excess flour.
- Assemble the tarts: On the lined sheet pan, place about 1 teaspoon of the spiced brown sugar mixture for each tart. Layer 4 thin apple slices on top of the sugar, then sprinkle another teaspoon of the spiced sugar mixture over the apples. Finally, press a piece of puff pastry on top, sealing the edges by pressing down and making fork indentations for decoration and to prevent puffing at the edges. Repeat for all 6 tarts.
- Optional egg wash and sugar topping: Brush the tops of each puff pastry with the beaten egg for a shiny golden finish and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for added crunch and sweetness.
- Bake: Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops of the puff pastries are puffed and golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Carefully flip each tart over to reveal the caramelized apple topping, then serve warm. They are delicious on their own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- The apple pie spice can be homemade by mixing ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice if not available pre-mixed.
- The egg wash is optional but recommended for a decorative, glossy crust finish.
- Turbinado sugar adds a nice texture and sparkle on top but can be omitted for a less sweet topping.
- Use firm apples that hold their shape well during baking such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Handle the puff pastry with care to prevent it from becoming too warm and sticky.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
