There’s something truly comforting about a freshly baked apple tart – the warm aroma of apples and buttery pastry filling the kitchen is enough to transport anyone straight to an Irish granny’s table. Here is a recipe for a Traditional Irish Apple Tart. It’s rustic, simple, and absolutely delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 225g plain flour
- 125g butter
- 4 large cooking apples
- 2 tablespoons (about 30g) cornflour
- 4–6 tablespoons sugar (depending on how sweet you like it)
- 5–6 tablespoons ice-cold water
- 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
Step 1: Make the Pastry
Start by sifting your flour into a large bowl to keep it light and lump-free. Cube the butter and rub it into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine sand. Be careful not to overwork it – warm hands can make the pastry greasy.
Add ice-cold water, a little at a time, using a butter knife to bring the mixture together. Once it starts to form clumps, gently bring it into a ball with your hands. Wrap (or place in a container) and chill in the fridge for about an hour. Chilling ensures a flaky, buttery pastry.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
While the pastry chills, peel and slice the apples. Don’t worry about perfect shapes – a rustic look is part of the charm. Toss the slices with cornflour to absorb excess juice and prevent a soggy tart.
Step 3: Roll Out the Pastry
Divide the dough into two portions – one slightly larger for the lid. On a floured surface, roll each piece out evenly, lifting and turning the pastry as you go to prevent sticking. Line your buttered baking dish (traditionally a plate works just fine!) with the base pastry, and prick it with a fork to let steam escape.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
Layer the apples into the pastry base, then sprinkle with sugar for sweetness. Lightly dampen the edges of the pastry with water, then gently place the top pastry over the apples. Trim any excess, press the edges together with a fork, and cut a few small slits in the top to let steam escape.
Brush with beaten egg (or milk) for a golden finish.
Step 5: Bake
Place your tart into a preheated oven at 190°C for 10 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 180°C and bake for another 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and crisp.
The Result
A beautifully rustic tart with buttery, flaky pastry and sweet, soft apples. Serve warm with a dollop of cream, a scoop of ice cream, or just as it is – pure Irish comfort food.
If you make this Traditional Irish Apple Tart, We would love to hear how it turns out! Tag us in your creations and let us know if it brought a little taste of Ireland into your home.
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