There’s something utterly comforting about the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon mingling with tender, caramelized apples fresh from the oven. I discovered this Cinnamon Apple Tart recipe on an evening when I craved dessert that felt both indulgent and homemade, without hours in the kitchen. What surprised me most was how simple it was to create a flaky, golden crust hugging the sweet, cinnamon-kissed apples—a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or someone tired of fast food repetitiveness, this tart brings a cozy elegance that’s easy to impress with and even easier to enjoy. Let me show you how this humble recipe transformed one chilly night into a memorable moment around my table.
Why choose Cinnamon Apple Tart today?
Simplicity, yet stunning: This tart requires minimal ingredients but delivers bakery-quality results. Flaky crust magic promises a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth experience every bite. Warm cinnamon-spiced apples create a cozy, nostalgic flavor perfect for any season. Versatile serving options mean it’s heavenly warm or chilled. Plus, it’s a delightful way to impress guests without fuss!
Cinnamon Apple Tart Ingredients
For the Tart Crust
- All-purpose flour – use cold flour to achieve that coveted flaky texture in your crust.
- Unsalted butter – chilled and cubed for buttery richness and flakiness.
- Granulated sugar – adds a subtle sweetness without overpowering the crust.
- Ice water – just enough to bring the dough together without making it sticky.
- Salt – a pinch enhances all the flavors in your cinnamon apple tart.
For the Apple Filling
- Granny Smith apples – crisp and tart apples hold their shape beautifully when baked.
- Ground cinnamon – the star spice that infuses your tart with warmth and depth.
- Brown sugar – adds caramel notes that perfectly complement the cinnamon and apples.
- Fresh lemon juice – keeps the apples from browning and brightens the overall flavor.
- Cornstarch – thickens the filling so it stays luscious and not runny.
Optional Topping
- Egg yolk – brushed on the crust for a glossy, golden finish that looks as good as it tastes.
- Turbinado sugar – sprinkled over the crust for a beautiful crunch and sparkle.
This classic Cinnamon Apple Tart recipe brings the perfect balance of buttery crust and warmly spiced apple filling, making it a cherished favorite for every home cook’s recipe box.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple Tart
- Combine the cold all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter to blend in chilled, cubed butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until dough just holds together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, then chill for at least 30 minutes for extra flakiness.
- Roll the rested dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Carefully transfer to a tart pan, trimming excess and gently pressing to line the sides evenly.
For the Filling:
- Peel and core 5 large Granny Smith apples, slicing each into 1/4-inch wedges. Aim for uniform pieces so they bake evenly and deliver a tender, tangy bite in every slice.
- Toss the apple slices in a bowl with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, fresh lemon juice, and cornstarch. This coating ensures a thick, glossy filling that won’t turn runny when baked.
- Arrange the coated apples in concentric circles over the crust, gently overlapping wedges. Leave a 1-inch border and fold edges snugly over the fruit for a rustic, open-faced tart.
- Bake the tart at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, until the crust turns golden brown and the filling bubbles. You’ll know it’s done when apples are tender yet hold their shape.
- Cool the tart on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes, allowing the filling to set for clean slices. Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with vanilla ice cream.
Optional: Brush crust with egg yolk and sprinkle turbinado sugar for extra crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Cinnamon Apple Tart Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and explore different flavors and textures that resonate with your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a delicious gluten-free tart.
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Nutty Twist: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the crust for a crunchy texture and rich flavor that complements the apples beautifully.
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Spiced Apples: Experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or ginger to elevate the warmth of your apple filling, creating a unique depth of flavor.
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Vegan Option: Replace butter with coconut oil and use a flax egg to bind the dough—still creamy and satisfying without any animal products!
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top before serving, adding a luscious sweetness that transforms each slice into pure bliss.
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Dried Fruits: Mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the apples for a chewy texture and an unexpected burst of sweetness amidst the tart’s flavors.
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Cheese Pairing: Serve slices with a side of creamy mascarpone or whipped cream cheese blended with honey for a delightful contrast of flavors.
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Fruit Fusion: Combine Granny Smith apples with other seasonal fruits, like pears or berries, for added variety in texture and taste, creating a colorful celebration on your plate.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Apple Tart?
Savor the delightful flavors of this warm, comforting tart by pairing it with complementary dishes and drinks that elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream beautifully balances the warm, spiced flavors of the tart, adding a luscious contrast with every bite.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the tart for a decadent touch, enhancing the sweetness and adding a silky texture that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon-kissed apples.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a delightful creaminess that elevates the tart while allowing the apple flavor to shine through.
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Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee or espresso complements the sweetness of the tart, creating a perfect afternoon or after-dinner treat to revive the senses.
Indulging in a slice of Cinnamon Apple Tart alongside these offerings turns any meal into a cozy gathering, perfect for sharing around your dining table. The combination invites warmth and connection, making it a go-to choice for family and friends alike.
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Cheddar Cheese: A sharp slice of cheddar pairs surprisingly well with the tart, its salty notes complementing the sweetness of the apples, creating a delightful contrast.
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Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea echo the cinnamon in the tart, creating a harmonious blend that’s simply irresistible together.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness, balancing the richness of the tart and introducing vibrant flavors of seasonal fruits.
Whether you’re enjoying a family gathering or a quiet night in, these accompaniments help create a memorable dessert experience that truly warms the heart.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Apple Tarts are a fantastic choice for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the flaky crust up to 24 hours in advance by making the dough, wrapping it in plastic, and refrigerating it; this helps maintain its texture and flavor. The apple filling can also be prepped up to 3 days ahead—just slice and toss the Granny Smith apples with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon, then store in an airtight container in the fridge to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out the chilled dough, layer in your apple filling, and bake as directed for a deliciously effortless dessert that’s just as delightful after a day in the fridge!
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Apple Tart
- Room Temperature: Allow the tart to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps the flaky crust inviting and fresh.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, keep the tart in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. This helps to maintain the apple filling’s nice texture and flavor.
- Freezer: If you want to freeze your Cinnamon Apple Tart, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months but be sure to thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked taste, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, or until warmed through—perfect for any dessert craving!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Apple Tart
- Use cold ingredients: Always keep butter and water ice-cold to achieve that perfectly flaky crust essential for your Cinnamon Apple Tart.
- Slice apples evenly: Uniform apple slices ensure even baking, preventing mushy or undercooked pieces in the filling.
- Don’t overwork dough: Handle the dough gently to avoid developing gluten, which can make your crust tough instead of tender and flaky.
- Chill before baking: Allow the dough to rest in the fridge at least 30 minutes; this helps relax gluten and keeps the crust from shrinking.
- Thicken filling properly: Toss apples with cornstarch carefully to avoid a runny tart and maintain a luscious, set filling after baking.
- Watch baking time: Remove the tart once the crust is golden and filling bubbles to balance tender apples and flaky crust perfectly.
Cinnamon Apple Tart Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for Cinnamon Apple Tart?
Granny Smith apples are my go-to for this tart because they’re tart, crisp, and hold their shape during baking. Avoid apples that are too soft or have dark spots all over, as they can turn mushy when cooked. If you want a sweeter twist, mixing Granny Smith with Fuji or Honeycrisp works beautifully.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cinnamon Apple Tart?
Once completely cooled, store your tart in an airtight container. At room temperature, it stays fresh for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to 5 days to keep the crust crisp and the apple filling flavorful. Make sure to cover it well to prevent the tart from drying out.
Can Cinnamon Apple Tart be frozen? How do I freeze it properly?
Absolutely! For freezing, cool your baked tart fully, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the tart overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to revive that flaky crust and luscious filling.
Why is my tart crust not flaky and how can I fix it?
This is often due to using warm butter or overworking the dough, which develops gluten and makes the crust tough. Always use cold butter and ice water, mix lightly just until combined, and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling. This resting step relaxes gluten for that melt-in-your-mouth flakiness we all love.
Is this Cinnamon Apple Tart safe for pets or people with allergies?
While this tart contains common allergens like wheat (gluten) and butter (dairy), the apples and cinnamon are safe for most. However, it’s best to keep this dessert away from pets, especially dogs, since cinnamon and sugar can upset their systems. For allergy considerations, you might substitute gluten-free flour or dairy-free butter alternatives—just watch baking times and texture!
Easy Homemade Cinnamon Apple Tart with Irresistible Flaky Crust
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine the cold all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Use a pastry cutter to blend in chilled, cubed butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until dough just holds together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, then chill for at least 30 minutes for extra flakiness.
- Roll the rested dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Carefully transfer to a tart pan, trimming excess and gently pressing to line the sides evenly.
- Peel and core 5 large Granny Smith apples, slicing each into 1/4-inch wedges.
- Toss the apple slices in a bowl with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, fresh lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Arrange the coated apples in concentric circles over the crust, leaving a 1-inch border and folding edges snugly over the fruit.
- Bake the tart at 375°F (190°C) for 40–45 minutes, until the crust turns golden brown and the filling bubbles.
- Cool the tart on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with vanilla ice cream.
- Brush crust with egg yolk and sprinkle turbinado sugar for extra crunch.
