These Mini Apple Walnut Tartlets are a delightful dessert, perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet, warm treat. The buttery crust pairs beautifully with the caramelized apple filling, and the crunchy walnut topping adds the perfect texture. They’re easy to make and can be served warm or at room temperature for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- Egg: 1 small
- Sour Cream: 30 g (2 tablespoons)
- Sugar: 50 g (1/4 cup)
- Butter (cold): 90 g (6 tablespoons)
- All-Purpose Flour: 280 g (2 1/4 cups)
- Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: A pinch
- Vanilla Extract: 1/2 teaspoon
For the Apple Filling:
- Apples (peeled and chopped): 5-7 medium
- Butter: 1 tablespoon
- Sugar: To taste (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Walnuts (chopped): 1/2 cup (50 g)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine 280 g of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 50 g of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir to mix the dry ingredients.
Cut 90 g of cold butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, mix until the dough has a crumbly texture. The butter should be evenly distributed throughout the flour for a flaky crust.
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 small egg, 30 g of sour cream, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients and knead until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour until it is workable but still soft.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up and make it easier to roll out.
2. Make the Apple Filling
While the dough is chilling, prepare the apple filling. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
Add the peeled and chopped apples to the skillet along with 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste) and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir to combine and cook the apples until they are soft and start to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes. This step enhances the sweetness and flavor of the apples.
Once the apples are cooked, remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Tartlets
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a mini tart or muffin tin to prevent the tartlets from sticking.
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch (3 mm) thickness. Using a round cookie cutter or glass, cut out small circles of dough that will fit into your mini tart or muffin cups. Press the dough circles into the cups, shaping them to form little tartlet shells.
Spoon the apple filling into each tartlet shell, making sure to evenly distribute the mixture.
4. Add the Walnut Topping
Sprinkle chopped walnuts (about 1/2 cup) over the top of the apple filling in each tartlet. The walnuts will add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to complement the soft apples and buttery crust.
5. Bake the Tartlets
Place the tartlets in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crusts are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as the small tartlets can brown quickly.
Once done, remove the tartlets from the oven and allow them to cool slightly in the tin. Gently remove them from the tin once cooled enough to handle.
6. Serve
Serve these Mini Apple Walnut Tartlets warm or at room temperature. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can dust them with powdered sugar before serving. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a more indulgent treat.
Nutritional Information (per tartlet, assuming 12 tartlets)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 65mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 3g
Tips for Success
- Dough Handling: If the dough becomes too sticky while rolling out, sprinkle more flour on your rolling surface and rolling pin. Work quickly to avoid warming the butter in the dough.
- Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding raisins, dried cranberries, or even a little lemon zest for extra flavor.
- Nut Alternatives: You can replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different twist on the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These mini tartlets are perfect for a fall gathering, afternoon tea, or a holiday dessert table. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting and satisfying dessert.
Enjoy the perfect balance of flaky crust, caramelized apples, and crunchy walnuts in every bite!