There’s something undeniably enchanting about desserts that look as good as they taste, and these Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts are the perfect example. The moment you open your oven to the sight of those beautifully arranged apple slices fanning out like delicate flowers, it feels like a celebration. I first tried my hand at these tarts one chilly evening after rummaging through my pantry and discovering some blackberries and a bottle of mulled wine. The transformation of simple apples into a gourmet treat had everyone asking for seconds!
Whether you choose the vibrant blackberry-dyed option or the rich, spiced twist using mulled wine and cranberries, these tarts combine the comforting flavors of traditional fruit desserts with a touch of elegance that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or simply to treat yourself, these tarts are not just a feast for the eyes but a delightful explosion of flavors with every bite. Join me as we dive into the world of apple rose frangipane tarts—two ways!
Why are Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts irresistible?
Stunning presentation: These tarts not only taste divine but are visually captivating, making them the star of any dessert table.
Two delightful variations: Choose between a vibrant blackberry version or a spiced, rich mulled wine option, catering to different palates.
Easy to impress: With their elegant appearance and rich flavors, they are perfect for impressing guests at parties and gatherings.
Gourmet comfort: Enjoy the warm, comforting familiarity of apple pie but with an elevated twist, turning a classic into a culinary masterpiece.
Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruits or spices, allowing this recipe to be a canvas for your creativity.
Get ready to dive into the deliciousness of these tarts and transform your baking game!
Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts Ingredients
For the Pastry
• Shop Bought Shortcrust Pastry – A quick base for your tarts, but feel free to use homemade pastry for a personal touch.
For the Blackberry Version
• Blackberries (1 & 1/3 cups) – These provide a stunning dye and subtle sweetness; you can replace them with other berries as desired.
• Water (1 & 1/2 cups) – Essential for simmering your apples and berries, enhancing their flavors.
• Eating Apples (3, e.g., Pink Lady) – The star ingredient for this tart; choose firm apples for the best texture.
• Lemon (1) – Adds the perfect acidity to balance out the sweetness of your dessert.
• Sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the mix; adjust according to your taste.
• Butter (3 tbsp, softened) – Imparts richness to the frangipane, making it luscious and creamy.
• Ground Almonds (1/2 cup) – This is a key ingredient, providing the nutty flavor of the frangipane.
• Large Egg (1) – Helps bind all the wonderful frangipane ingredients together.
• Vanilla Bean Paste (3/4 tsp) – Elevates the flavor profile with its aromatic notes.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 tbsp) – Thickener for a perfect texture in the frangipane.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp, optional) – A warm addition that perfectly complements the blackberry notes.
For the Mulled Wine Version
• Cranberries (1/2 cup, fresh or frozen) – Enhance the color and richness of your filling; feel free to swap in other seasonal fruits.
• Orange Juice (1/3 cup) and Zest – Brighten the flavors and add a citrusy twist to the mulled wine.
• Sugar (1/3 cup) – Adjust sweetness based on how sweet the cranberries and wine are.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Adds warmth and enhances the rich flavors of mulled wine.
• Cranberry Sauce – Optional for glazing and adds a lovely tartness; use according to your preference.
With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from crafting the most delightful apple rose frangipane tarts—two amazing ways!
How to Make Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts
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Prep & Dye Apples: Begin by simmering blackberries with water and sugar, or use mulled wine with cranberries and orange juice until dark. Thinly slice apples and soak them in the simmered liquid for 3-5 minutes. Refrigerate for at least an hour to cool.
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Prepare Tart Shells: Line your mini tart tins with the shortcrust pastry, using any offcuts to create decorative leaves. Blind bake them with weights for about 15 minutes until they’re set but not browned.
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Make Frangipane: In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in an egg, then incorporate the vanilla, ground almonds, flour, and a pinch of salt (along with cinnamon if using), blending until smooth.
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Assemble Tarts: Spoon the frangipane mixture into the baked tart shells. Pat the dyed apple slices dry and artfully arrange them in a rosette pattern atop the frangipane.
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Bake Tarts: Place the filled tarts into a preheated oven at 160°C (fan) or 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20 minutes, until the apples are soft and edges are lightly golden.
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Glaze Apples: Reduce any leftover fruit juice with sugar over medium heat until it thickens. Brush this glaze over the baked tarts for a shiny finish, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you explore these delightful adaptations for your tarts!
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Berry Blend: Mix and match your choice of berries for dyeing apples, like raspberries or blueberries, adding unique flavors and colors.
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Nut-Free Frangipane: Substitute ground almonds with sunflower seed flour to create a nut-free version while still maintaining the rich texture.
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Citrus Twist: Add a splash of fresh orange juice or zest to the frangipane for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens every bite.
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Spice It Up: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or ginger into the frangipane for a delightful spiced variation that warms the palate.
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Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter and a flax or chia egg to make the frangipane vegan friendly without losing any creaminess.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the tarts before serving to add an indulgent twist and a touch of decadence.
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Savory Herbs: Add finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme into the frangipane for a savory contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweet apples.
With these variations, you’re all set to customize your Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts to suit every palate and occasion!
What to Serve with Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts?
Imagine your kitchen filled with inviting aromas as you create a dessert masterpiece. These tarts are the perfect sweet finale to a lovely meal.
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Whipped Cream:
A fluffy dollop of whipped cream adds a luscious texture that complements the delicate frangipane and tender apples beautifully. -
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream brings a delightful contrast to the warm tarts, making each bite even more indulgent. -
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A medley of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing and vibrant counterpoint, balancing the sweetness of the tarts with a burst of freshness. -
Herbal Tea:
A warm cup of chamomile or mint tea enhances the sensory experience, offering a soothing pairing that rounds off the dessert beautifully. -
Coffee:
The rich, bold flavors of a freshly brewed coffee contrast nicely with the sweet tarts, creating a delightful after-dinner treat. -
Chocolate Drizzle:
A drizzle of melted dark chocolate over the tarts adds a touch of decadence and heightens their gourmet appeal for special occasions. -
Candied Nuts:
Crunchy candied nuts provide an unexpected textural contrast, adding a sweet and salty flavor that pairs exquisitely with the tarts.
These pairings not only elevate the flavors of your apple rose frangipane tarts but also create a complete dining experience that everyone will love.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while impressing guests! You can prepare the frangipane filling and the shortcrust pastry up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the frangipane in an airtight container and the pastry wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, keep the apples uncooked until you’re ready to bake, allowing them to stay fresh and prevent browning. When you’re set to serve, slice the apples and soak them for 3-5 minutes in the dyeing liquid before assembling the tarts. Finally, bake them as instructed for a delicious treat just like freshly made!
Expert Tips for Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts
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Perfect Apple Slices: Use a mandolin slicer to ensure your apple slices are evenly thin, allowing them to roll beautifully into roses without breaking.
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Dye Duration: For deeper color infusion, let the apple slices soak in the dyeing liquid overnight; this enhances both appearance and flavor.
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Check Baking: Keep an eye on the tarts while baking. Look for golden edges and a firm center to avoid overcooking the delicate frangipane layer.
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Glazing Shine: Reduce the leftover fruit juice carefully to achieve a thick, glossy glaze that enhances the overall visual appeal of your baked tarts.
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Avoid Soggy Bottoms: Blind baking the tart shells is crucial to prevent them from getting soggy once filled with the frangipane and apple slices.
Storage Tips for Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts
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Room Temperature: Keep uneaten tarts at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered loosely with parchment to retain their texture and prevent drying out.
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Fridge: Store leftover Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze tarts wrapped in plastic and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for the best results.
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Reheating: To restore pastry crispness, reheat tarts in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. Enjoy the delightful warmed flavors once again!
Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of apple for the tarts?
Absolutely! While I recommend using firm, sweet varieties like Pink Lady, you can also opt for Granny Smiths for a tart contrast or even pears for a different flavor. The key is to choose fruits that hold their shape during baking.
How should I store leftover Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts?
Store leftover tarts in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. If you’d prefer to keep them longer, wrap each tart in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge and reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.
What are the best ways to freeze these tarts?
To freeze Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts, first ensure they have cooled completely. Wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect them from freezer burn. This method keeps them safe for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if my apple slices are breaking while I roll them?
If your apple slices are breaking, it could be due to thickness. Using a mandolin slicer can help achieve uniformly thin slices. Moreover, soaking them longer in the dyeing liquid (even overnight) will soften them further, making them more pliable. If they are too firm, they may crack—so make sure they’re thin enough!
Are there any dietary considerations for your tarts?
Great question! This recipe can easily be adjusted for dietary needs. For those with nut allergies, consider substituting ground almonds in the frangipane with a seed like sunflower seeds, finely ground. Additionally, you can make it gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free pastry and flour. Always check the labels on your ingredients for any potential allergens.
How long can I keep these tarts at room temperature?
You can keep uneaten tarts at room temperature for up to 1 day. It’s best to cover them loosely with parchment paper to allow some air circulation while preventing them from drying out. If you have any left beyond that, it’s wise to store them in the fridge.
Each of these tips will help enhance your experience with making Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts—two ways!
Delicious Apple Rose Frangipane Tarts – Two Irresistible Ways
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by simmering blackberries with water and sugar, or use mulled wine with cranberries and orange juice until dark. Thinly slice apples and soak them in the simmered liquid for 3-5 minutes. Refrigerate for at least an hour to cool.
- Line your mini tart tins with the shortcrust pastry, using any offcuts to create decorative leaves. Blind bake them with weights for about 15 minutes until they’re set but not browned.
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Mix in an egg, then incorporate the vanilla, ground almonds, flour, and a pinch of salt (along with cinnamon if using), blending until smooth.
- Spoon the frangipane mixture into the baked tart shells. Pat the dyed apple slices dry and artfully arrange them in a rosette pattern atop the frangipane.
- Place the filled tarts into a preheated oven at 160°C (fan) or 180°C (350°F) for approximately 20 minutes, until the apples are soft and edges are lightly golden.
- Reduce any leftover fruit juice with sugar over medium heat until it thickens. Brush this glaze over the baked tarts for a shiny finish, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.