How to Make Tarte Tatin: The Ultimate French Upside‑Down Apple Tart
When you think of French desserts, Tarte Tatin immediately stands out—its caramelized apples and buttery pastry make it legendary. Said to be born from a lucky kitchen mishap in 1880s France, this classic French upside-down apple tart has become a beloved symbol of rustic elegance.
This recipe brings you that same timeless dessert: layers of soft, caramelized apples nestled under buttery shortcrust pastry, baked to golden perfection. Turn it out and serve it warm, with a full apple aroma and caramel flavor in every bite.
Created after a mistake from the Tatin sisters, find here her history and, of course, the recipe.
Servings
6 person (⌀ 20cm plate)
Prep time:
25min
Cook time:
35min
Resting time:
30min
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Iconic French dessert with roots in tradition and folklore
- ✅ Natural caramel flavor from just sugar and apple juices—no hidden syrups
- ✅ Simple to master with satisfying, elegant results
- ✅ Best served warm or at room temperature—ideal for cozy gatherings
Whether you’re serving it for dessert, tea-time, or brunch, Tarte Tatin brings a taste of French countryside charm to your table.
What Is Tarte Tatin?
Originally created at the Hotel Tatin in Lamotte-Beuvron, north of Paris, Tarte Tatin started as an upside-down apple tart made in error—only to be flipped and served, instantly becoming a hero dessert. Today, it’s a staple of French pastry culture, adored for its buttery crust and caramelized apple top.
Ingredients
Pie crust
- 125g of flour
- 62g of butter
- 42g of egg
Caramelized apples
- 125g of sugar
- 25g of butter
- 4 apples
Step by Step Instructions
Prepare the Pastry
Follow the pastry dough method (check our 5-minute foolproof pie crust recipe for guidance).
Caramelize the Apples
Arrange peeled, halved apples snugly in a heavy-bottom pan with sugar and butter. Cook gently until the syrup becomes a deep amber caramel and the apples soften.
Blind Bake the Dough
Roll out your shortcrust pastry to fit your pan. Bake it separately or for part of the cooking process before topping the apples to ensure a crisp and firm base.
Assemble & Bake
Gently place the pastry over the caramelized apples, tucking edges down around the fruit. Bake until the pastry is golden and crisp, and the apple juices bubble beneath.
Flip & Serve
Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate—watching the glossy caramel and apple side shine up. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche.
- Garnish with a light dusting of icing sugar or a few toasted almond slivers.
- Pair with a glass of sweet cider or a cup of black coffee.
Storage
- Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, warm gently in the oven until slightly caramel bubbles return. Avoid the microwave if possible to preserve texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead?
Yes! Prepare the pastry in advance and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before rolling.
Can I use pears or stone fruits instead?
Absolutely—pears, peaches, or even mango work well. Adjust cooking time to suit the fruit’s water content.
How do I avoid a soggy crust?
Bake the pastry partially beforehand (blind bake), and don’t overcrowd the apple layer to let syrup reduce properly.
Final Thoughts
Tarte Tatin perfectly encapsulates French dessert—simple ingredients, transformative technique, and a moment of “wow” at the table. Once you master the flip, you’ll feel like a true pâtissier.
Every bite is a celebration of caramel, butter, and slow-cooked apples—memories of countryside kitchens and traditional flavors.
Where to Go Next
If you’re looking for ways to enhance your pastry experience for guests and create unforgettable moments:
Brioche
A rich and fluffy French bread with a tender crumb—perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack.
Pie Crust (5-Minute Foolproof Recipe)
Your go-to crust for sweet and savory pies—crisp, buttery, and ready in just 5 minutes.
Lemon Meringue Tart
Tangy lemon curd topped with cloud-like meringue—where zesty meets elegant.
Want to Elevate Your French Pastry Skills?
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