Simple Apple Tart

Count on Ina Garten when you're looking for a simple recipe that's delicious.  I followed her recipe for apple tart and was delighted with the result.  The best part was you can make the dough and keep it on hand in the refrigerator, then when you want to make your tart, it only takes about 10 minutes to put together.  Here's the recipe, and of course a picture of the finished product.

Crust

2c. all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 T. sugar
12 T. diced cold butter
1/2 c. ice water

Pulse first three ingredients in food processor until mixed.  Add the butter until mixture is crumbly, then slowly add ice water.  Remove mixture and knead for a few minutes until everything is incorporated.  Do not over mix. Form into a big disc, then wrap well in plastic wrap and refrigerate.  All it to rest for at least an hour.  I made the dough two days in advance, and it came out great.

When ready to assemble, roll dough on a floured board and cut into a large rectangle, then place on a cookie sheet.

Filling

4 large apples, peeled, cored and cut in 1/4inch slices
1/2 granulated sugar

Prepare apples and assemble them on the crust.  Fan them out so they overlap.  Sprinkle with granulated sugar, and 1/2 stick of cold butter, diced.  Cook in a hot, 450 degree oven, for 45 minutes.  That was Ina's recommendation, but I found the crust a little too cooked, so I would start to watch it at 35 minutes.  Allow tart to cool, then heat some apricot jam, add a little Calvados (if you have it).  If not, just thin the jam with a little water, paint the top of the tart with the apricot jam.

If you really want to be fancy, serve it with a dollop of creme fraiche, whipped cream, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.  This tart is delicious and so easy to make.  Enjoy!