Classic Apple Tart with Buttery Crust and Meringue Topping – A Cozy Dessert Delight

Classic Apple Tart with Buttery Crust and Meringue Topping – A Cozy Dessert Delight
Infused with the brightness of lemon, the sweetness of sugar, and the warm flavor of apples, every bite is a perfect balance of soft, crisp, and airy textures.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 8
Cuisine: European / Classic Homemade Dessert

Ingredients

For the crust:

2 cups flour (280 g / 10 oz)

¼ cup sugar (60 g / 2 oz)

A pinch of salt

90 g (3 oz) cold butter, cut into cubes

2 egg yolks

2 egg whites (reserved for meringue)

For the apple filling:

3 medium apples, peeled and sliced

Juice of 1 lemon

3 tablespoons sugar (60 g / 2 oz)

For the meringue topping:

2 egg whites

¼ cup sugar (60 g / 2 oz)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons cornstarch (30 g / 1 oz)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Make the crust
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the egg yolks and mix until the dough comes together. If needed, add a teaspoon of cold water. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic, and chill for 20 minutes.

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20 cm (8 inch) tart pan with butter and line the bottom with baking paper.

Roll out the dough and press it into the prepared tart pan. Prick the base with a fork and chill again while you prepare the filling.

Cook the apples
Peel and thinly slice the apples. In a skillet, add apple slices, lemon juice, and sugar. Cook over medium heat for 7–8 minutes until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Bake the crust
Place a sheet of parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights or dry beans. Blind bake the crust for 12–15 minutes. Remove weights and bake for another 5 minutes until slightly golden.

Assemble the tart
Spread the cooked apples evenly over the crust.

Make the meringue topping
In a clean bowl, beat the reserved egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla while beating until stiff peaks form (about 5–6 minutes). Gently fold in the cornstarch.

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Drink Lemon Water for 30 Days, and Experience Amazing Results!
Top the tart
Spoon or pipe the meringue over the apples, creating swirls or peaks.

Bake again
Return the tart to the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the meringue is golden brown on top.

Cool and serve
Let the tart cool in the pan. Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled.

Nutritional Information (per slice – based on 8 slices)

Calories: 290

Protein: 4g

Carbohydrates: 38g

Fat: 13g

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 20g

Sodium: 110mg

Vitamin C: 6% DV

Calcium: 3% DV

Iron: 7% D

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Apple tarts are one of the oldest recorded desserts in European baking, particularly in French and German traditions. The idea of pairing baked apples with pastry is timeless, and variations exist in every cuisine. The addition of meringue gives this version a special flair, making it a perfect bridge between rustic charm and elegant presentation.

This version has gained popularity in online baking communities for its visual beauty and delicate balance of textures.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

Combines three textures in one dessert: flaky crust, juicy fruit, airy meringue

Sweet, slightly tangy, and balanced

Crowd-pleasing and visually stunning

Simple pantry ingredients

Can be made ahead of time

Easier than it looks – beginner-friendly

Perfect for every season – especially fall

Health Benefits

While it’s still a dessert, this tart features:

Natural Recipe to Eliminate Belly Fat
Natural Recipe to Eliminate Belly Fat
Apples, which are high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants

Meringue topping, which is lower in fat than frosting or buttercream

Lower fat crust, using only butter and egg yolks with no cream

Serving Suggestions

Dust with powdered sugar before serving

Top with fresh mint leaves or thin apple slices for presentation

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Pair with tea or espresso for a café-style treat

Make mini versions in muffin tins for individual servings

Cooking Tips

Use cold butter for a flakier crust

Chill your dough before rolling to make it easier to work with

Don’t overcook the apples – they should hold their shape

Use a metal bowl for the egg whites for the best meringue texture

Cornstarch stabilizes the meringue and gives it a glossy finish

Let the tart cool completely before slicing to prevent weeping

Variations to Try

Add cinnamon and nutmeg to the apples for a spiced fall flavor

Use brown sugar instead of white for caramel notes

Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the filling for crunch

Replace apples with pears or plums for a fruity twist

Add a layer of jam or custard under the apples for extra richness

Use maple syrup or honey in the meringue for natural sweetness

Conclusion

This Classic Apple Tart with Meringue Topping is an elegant dessert with nostalgic flavors and modern charm. The buttery crust gives way to tender caramelized apples, crowned with a pillowy meringue that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this tart is the perfect way to showcase the beauty of simple ingredients.