Easy Apple Tart
Prep Time
10 minsCook Time
18-19 minsFree Time
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Tarte Tatin, or Upside Down Apple Tart, is perhaps the second most famous dessert from France after creme brûlée. Its simplicity is what makes it so delicious — caramel, apples, and a flaky crust. Traditionally, it takes hours to make, but Anyday and the microwave cut that down to under 30 minutes! You’ll still use the oven to get that flaky, golden-brown puff pastry crust.
WARNING! When working with hot sugar, please take care to work safely. Do not set dishes on cool, wet surfaces as the dish may crack. Do not dip your finger to taste hot caramel while still liquid. Make sure not to overcook the sugar or it can crack the dish.
All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power
What You’ll Need
What You’ll Need
The Medium Shallow Dish
The Anyhand Mitts
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2-3 red apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1/8” wedges
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 sheet of puff pastry or crescent roll dough, cut to fit the top of the Medium Shallow Anyday Dish
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- While the oven preheats, place the sugar and water in an Anyday shallow dish and stir to combine.
- Cook uncovered for 3-4 minutes, or until you notice the center of the mixture turn slightly amber in color, with a caramel-like scent. Carefully swirl the caramel around to cover the bottom of the dish. IMPORTANT: Place the dish on a heatproof surface, such as wood or a towel, to prevent the dish from cracking. Set aside.
- In a separate Anyday dish (either a shallow or a deep dish will work), add the peeled, cored, and cut apples with the butter. Cover with the lid (knob lifted).
- Cook in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until the apples are fork-tender but not mushy.
- Assemble the apple tart. In the shallow Anyday dish with the caramel, arrange the par-cooked apples neatly on top of the caramel in a flower- or fan-like pattern. Cover the apples with the circular piece of dough, and pierce it with a fork a few times to help the steam escape while it cooks.
- Lightly brush the dough with cream or milk, then sprinkle the top with sugar. Bake in the oven for 13-14 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown.
- Allow the tart to cool slightly, then flip it onto a plate so that the caramelized fruit is displayed on top. Enjoy while still warm.
Serving suggestions & tips
- A la mode: Serve the apple tart warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Quick canned fruit option: For a faster version, use canned pears and skip steps 4 and 5 for a convenient shortcut.
- Aromatic thyme twist: Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the apples while cooking to infuse a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dust the tart with a blend of cinnamon and sugar just before serving.
Recipe notes
- Any apples will work with this recipe — note that some apples, like green apples, have a more tart flavor, while others, like red delicious, are sweeter.
- WARNING! When working with hot sugar, please take care to work safely. Do not set dishes on cool, wet surfaces as the dish may crack. Do not dip your finger to taste hot caramel while still liquid. Make sure not to overcook the sugar or it can crack the dish.
- Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Step by Step: Apple Tarte Tatin in the Microwave
All You Need to Know About Making Apple Tart in the Microwave
Can I cook apple tart in the microwave?
Yes, you can cook apple tart in the microwave with Anyday dishes! This method allows you to prepare this classic dessert efficiently. The microwave caramelizes the sugar and cooks the apples, while the puff pastry gets a golden-brown finish in the oven. The traditional version of this recipe takes up to two hours to make, but with an Anyday dish, you can enjoy this delicious dessert in under 30 minutes.
How long does it take to make apple tart in the microwave?
With Anyday dishes, making apple tart in the microwave takes under 30 minutes. The microwave cooks the caramel and apples in approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on your microwave's wattage and the size of your portions. The puff pastry will need about 15-20 minutes in the oven to achieve a perfectly golden-brown crust.
Can I make the caramel base in the microwave?
Yes, you can caramelize sugar in the microwave using Anyday dishes. This method ensures even heating and helps prevent crystallization, a common issue when stirring on the stovetop. Be cautious not to overcook the sugar, as it can become bitter. Always use an Anyhand Mitt or towel to handle the dish to avoid thermal shock that could crack the dish.
How do I know when the caramel is ready?
The caramel is ready when it turns a deep golden-brown color. You'll also notice a slightly burnt smell, which indicates that it's properly caramelized. Gently swirl the Anyday dish to even out the color, but avoid stirring to prevent crystallization. If the caramel darkens too much, it can become bitter, so monitor it closely.
What if my caramel is too dark?
Overcooked caramel can adversely affect the flavor of your dessert. If the caramel becomes too dark and bitter, allow it to cool completely in the Anyday dish. Add 1/2 cup of water to the dish with the dark caramel (now hardened) and microwave for 1-2 minutes to dissolve. Discard the overcooked caramel, wash the dish, and start fresh.
Can I use different types of apples for apple tart?
Yes, you can use a variety of apples for your apple tart. Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal for their firmness and tangy flavor, while sweeter apples like Honeycrisp add a pleasant sweetness. Choose apples that maintain their shape during cooking for the best results in your tart.
Can I prepare apple tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare apple tart ahead of time. Make the tart up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator or at room temperature. When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven to crisp the puff pastry. If stored in an Anyday dish, leave it uncovered to prevent sogginess.
What’s the best way to store leftover apple tart?
To keep leftover Apple Tart fresh, store it in an Anyday dish with the lid on in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the tart in the microwave for 1-2 minutes for a quick warm-up. If you prefer to restore the puff pastry’s crispness, you can also use the oven. This method helps maintain the tart’s texture and flavor while making the most of Anyday's convenient cookware.
Can I freeze Apple Tart?
Freezing Apple Tart is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the caramel and puff pastry. Freezing may cause the caramel to become grainy and the pastry to lose its flakiness. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for a few days.
What can I use if I don’t have puff pastry?
If puff pastry isn’t available, you can use alternatives like pie crust or biscuit dough. Roll out the dough to fit your Anyday dish and follow the same baking instructions. Cooking times may vary slightly based on the dough type, so monitor it closely as it bakes for the best results.
