Sugar-Free Apple Caramel Tart

This refined sugar-free apple caramel tart combines the warmth of traditional apple pie with wholesome ingredients. The recipe draws inspiration from classic French tarte aux pommes but uses natural sweeteners like dates and the inherent sweetness of apples. I’ve perfected this recipe through countless iterations to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 240g (2 cups) oat flour
• 55g (½ cup) ground flaxseed
• 80ml (⅓ cup) melted coconut oil
• 45ml (3 tbsp) cold water
• 1.25g (¼ tsp) salt

For the Filling

• 4 medium apples (approximately 600g)
• 8 Medjool dates (160g)
• 120ml (½ cup) unsweetened almond milk
• 2 large eggs
• 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
• 2.5g (1 tsp) cinnamon
• 1.25g (¼ tsp) nutmeg

For the Date Caramel

• 6 Medjool dates (120g)
• 60ml (¼ cup) hot water
• 30g (2 tbsp) almond butter
• 2.5ml (½ tsp) vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preparing the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the oat flour and ground flaxseed.
2. Add melted coconut oil and mix until crumbly.
3. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
4. Press the mixture evenly into a 23cm (9-inch) tart pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides.
5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Making the Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
2. Peel and core all apples. Dice three apples and thinly slice one for decoration.
3. In a high-speed blender, combine dates, almond milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Blend until completely smooth, scraping down sides as needed.
5. Transfer mixture to a bowl and fold in the diced apples.

Assembly and Baking

1. Pour the filling into the chilled crust.
2. Arrange apple slices in a circular pattern on top.
3. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
4. Allow to cool completely before adding caramel.

Date Caramel

1. Soak dates in hot water for 10 minutes.
2. Transfer dates and soaking water to a blender.
3. Add almond butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
5. Drizzle over cooled tart before serving.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve at room temperature for best texture and flavor.

Nutrition Information

Per serving (1/8 of tart):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 8g
• Fat: 14g
• Sugar: 24g (all from natural sources)

Time Requirements

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Bake Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Makes 8 servings

This tart offers a perfect balance of natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients while maintaining the indulgent experience of a traditional dessert. The combination of dates and apples creates a caramel-like sweetness without any refined sugars.