Croatian Tarte Tatin

Ingredients

While the French Tarte Tatin traditionally uses puff pastry, the Croatian adaptation incorporates a flaky shortcrust pastry. Additionally, the Croatian version may include a touch of local honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon to enhance the flavors. This adaptation aims to highlight the unique culinary heritage of Croatia while maintaining the essence of the original Tarte Tatin. We alse have the original recipe for Tarte Tatin, so you can check it out.

• 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (900g) 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (900g)
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• Zest of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1/2 lemon Juice of 1/2 lemon
• Shortcrust pastry: Shortcrust pastry:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 kJ
• Fat: 16g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
• Carbohydrates: 58g (Sugar: 38g)
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a 9-inch oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar and water, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
3. 3.
   Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the mixture until it turns a golden caramel color, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. 4.
   Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern over the caramel, starting from the outer edge and working your way to the center.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Drizzle this mixture over the apples.
6. 6.
   Roll out the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit the skillet. Carefully place the pastry over the apples, tucking in the edges.
7. 7.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Place a serving plate over the skillet and carefully invert the Tarte Tatin onto the plate.
9. 9.
   Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart apples such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best texture and flavor.
• Shortcrust pastry — Ensure the butter is cold and handle the dough gently to achieve a flaky crust.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of Croatian flavor, sprinkle a pinch of dried lavender over the caramelized apples before adding the pastry.
• Serve the Croatian Tarte Tatin with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
• If you prefer a sweeter caramel, you can increase the amount of sugar in the caramel mixture.
• Make sure to let the Tarte Tatin cool slightly before inverting it onto the serving plate to avoid any accidents.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian Tarte Tatin warm as a delightful dessert. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of Croatian dessert wine.

Presentation advice

To present the Croatian Tarte Tatin beautifully, place a slice on a dessert plate and drizzle some of the caramel sauce from the skillet over the top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.