Go Back
Tarte Normande French Apple Tart Normandy Apple Tart Tarte aux Pommes Normande

Normandy Apple Tart Recipe (French Apple Tart)

A traditional French apple tart made with buttery shortcrust pastry, fresh apples, and a rich vanilla custard. Elegant, creamy, and perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert, French Dessert
Cuisine: French
Calories: 360

Ingredients
  

For the Tart
  • 300 g shortcrust pastry homemade or store-bought
  • 5 apples mix of sweet and tart varieties
  • 50-70 g granulated sugar
  • 2 whole eggs
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 300 ml Don’t Overmix the Custard: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a less smooth texture. liquid cream not solid or thick cream
  • vanilla extract a few drops
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice for the apples
  • icing sugar optional, for dusting

Equipment

  • 1 Rolling Pin
  • 1 20–22 cm tart pan
  • 1 mixing bowl
  • 1 whisk
  • 1 paring knife
  • 1 apple corer optional
  • 1 Cutting board
  • 1 fork
  • 1 pastry brush optional
  • 1 cooling rack

Method
 

Prepare the Apples
  1. Peel all the apples.
  2. Drizzle with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  3. Remove the cores.
  4. Cut each apple into quarters.
  5. Slice each quarter thinly.
Prepare the Pastry
  1. Lightly flour the work surface.
  2. Roll the pastry into a circle large enough for a 20–22 cm tart pan.
  3. Transfer it to the pan.
  4. Press gently into the edges.
  5. Trim any excess pastry.
  6. Prick the base several times with a fork.
Make the Custard
  1. Whisk together the eggs, egg yolk, sugar, cream, and vanilla.
  2. Mix until smooth.
  3. Refrigerate for about 10 minutes.
Assembling the Tart
  1. Arrange the apple slices in overlapping circles.
  2. Slowly pour the custard over the apples.
Bake
  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Bake for 35 minutes or until the custard is set and lightly golden.
  3. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
Finish and Serve
  1. Dust with icing sugar if desired.
  2. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
  3. Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

To ensure your tart turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
  • Choose the Right Apples: A mix of sweet and tart apples will provide a more complex flavor.
  • Don’t Overmix the Custard: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a less smooth texture.
  • Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the tart as it bakes to prevent overcooking.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for a unique twist.