This Apple-Cinnamon Honey Tart combines the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the warm embrace of cinnamon and honey, all wrapped in a buttery homemade crust. It's perfect for autumn gatherings or when you're just craving a cozy dessert.
Granny Smith apples bring a refreshing tartness that complements the sweet honey and spices. Using all-purpose flour provides the perfect base for our crust, while unsalted butter adds richness without overwhelming the other flavors. A touch of cold water helps bind the dough, making it easy to work with. Ground cinnamon introduces warmth, and honey sweetens naturally, adding a lovely floral note. Brown sugar enhances the caramel-like sweetness, and a pinch of salt rounds out the flavors. Finally, lemon juice keeps the apples bright and tangy, and a beaten egg gives the crust that irresistible golden finish.
This tart pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a sophisticated touch, drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over each slice before serving. If you're enjoying it with friends, a light dessert wine can elevate the experience.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gives it time to get nice and hot while you prepare the tart. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt together. Add the diced butter, and using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. It's okay if some larger bits of butter remain; they help create a flaky crust.
Gradually stir in the cold water, adding just a tablespoon at a time. You want the dough to come together without being sticky. Once it holds together, roll it out on a floured surface until it's a bit larger than your 9-inch tart pan. Drape the dough over the pan, pressing it gently into the corners. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
Next, grab another bowl for the filling. Toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning, then add honey, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Mix until the apples are evenly coated. Arrange the apple mixture over the crust, spreading it out so every bite has a bit of apple goodness.
Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg. This will give it that beautiful golden color as it bakes. Slide the tart into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool a bit before slicing to make serving easier.