Vegan Apple Tart

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a tart pan with removable bottom or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, coconut sugar, and salt.
3. Cut in the coconut oil: Add the solidified coconut oil (or vegan butter) to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add ice water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all the water.
5. Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
6. Roll out the dough: Once chilled, roll the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8-inch thickness. Carefully transfer it to the prepared tart pan and press it into the edges. Trim any excess dough.
7. Blind bake: Line the tart crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10–12 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights, and bake for another 5-7 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Almond Cream Layer

1. Blend the almond cream: In a small bowl, mix together the almond butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, almond milk, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until smooth and well-combined. This will serve as a base layer under the apples.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Slice the apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. You can use a mandolin slicer for even slices or slice by hand.
2. Toss the apples: In a bowl, toss the apple slices with maple syrup, lemon juice, and cinnamon. This will help soften the apples and add flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

1. Spread the almond cream: Once the tart crust has cooled, spread an even layer of almond cream across the bottom of the crust.
2. Arrange the apples: Carefully layer the apple slices in a spiral pattern, starting from the outer edge of the tart and working your way inward. Overlap the slices slightly to create a beautiful, uniform design.
3. Brush with coconut oil: Lightly brush the apples with melted coconut oil to add a shiny glaze and extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Tart

1. Bake the tart: Place the assembled tart in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden.
2. Cool the tart: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool to room temperature before serving.

Step 6: Optional Glaze

1. Make the glaze: In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam or fruit preserve with 1 teaspoon of water over low heat until it becomes runny. Brush the glaze over the apples to give them a glossy finish.
2. Serve: Slice the tart and serve as is, or with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.

Serving Tips

• Serve with a side of dairy-free whipped cream: A light coconut or cashew cream will enhance the flavor and add a creamy contrast to the tart’s texture.
• Pair with a hot beverage: This apple tart pairs wonderfully with a cup of herbal tea or a warm chai latte.
• Chill before serving: If you have time, chilling the tart for an hour or two will make slicing easier and enhance the flavors.
• Perfect for any occasion: This tart is versatile enough to be served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, or even as a simple weeknight dessert.

Optional Variations

• Different nut creams: Swap almond butter with cashew butter or hazelnut butter for a different flavor profile in the cream layer.
• Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Add caramelized nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top of the apples for an added crunch and flavor.
• Fruit variations: Try using pears, quinces, or berries instead of apples for a different fruit-based tart.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover tart in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze this tart! Slice and wrap the individual slices in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

This Vegan Apple Tart combines the comforting flavors of autumn with a light, flaky crust and the creaminess of almond filling. It’s simple yet elegant, making it perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special celebration. Plus, it’s dairy-free and plant-based, so everyone can enjoy this sweet and tart dessert.

Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a healthier dessert option, this apple tart will quickly become a favorite. Don’t forget to top it off with a vegan whipped cream or dairy-free ice cream for that extra indulgence!

More Vegan Dessert Recipes You Might Love:

• Vegan Chocolate Lava Cake
• Dairy-Free Pumpkin Pie
• Vegan Lemon Meringue Pie