Decadent Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Tart Recipe

Indulge in the heavenly flavors of autumn with this delightful recipe for Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart. With a buttery almond flour crust, tender spiced apples, and a decadent caramel drizzle, this dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, this tart is sure to impress.

Creating this Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart is not only a delicious endeavor but also a heartwarming tradition in the making. The combination of fresh apples, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans brings together a medley of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing. From the moment you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this tart is a must-have for any festive occasion.

So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to savor the magic of fall with each slice of this Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a delightful way to share the love of good food with family and friends. Get ready to create lasting memories and unforgettable flavors with this scrumptious tart!

Quick Benefits

• Gluten Free: Suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease
• Easy to Make: Simple preparation using common pantry ingredients
• Great Texture: Crumbly crust, juicy apple filling, and crunchy pecan streusel
• Versatile: Can be customized with different nuts, spices, or apple varieties

Why You’ll Love This Decadent Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Tart Recipe Recipe

• Made with simple gluten-free ingredients you can actually find
• Perfect way to use up extra apples and leftover caramel sauce
• Stays crisp without getting soggy even a day later
• Decorates beautifully for holiday tables
• Loved by those who do not even need to eat gluten-free
• Rich caramel swirls meet tangy spiced apple for a bakery-style finish
• Crisp gluten-free crust that holds together
• Gets even better the second day
• Cozy flavor and crunch from pecans in the topping
• Versatile recipe – easily customizable with various nuts, sugars, and spices
• Great activity to bake with family or friends
• Pairs perfectly with whipped cream, ice cream, hot apple cider, or tea
• Baking tip: Letting the dough rest overnight improves flavor and texture
• Ingredient tip: Taste your apples before cooking to adjust sweetness
• Presentation tip: Keep caramel sauce warm for easy swirling and even coverage
• Overall, an easier-than-it-looks recipe that brings people together around the table

Ingredients for Decadent Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Tart Recipe

Pâté Sablée

• 2 cups gluten-free multipurpose flour
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into small pieces
• 3/5 cup powdered sugar
• 1/3 cup almond flour, finely ground
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Brown Sugar Apple Filling

• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 6 medium apples, peeled and diced (about 1.65 pounds)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Pecan Streusel

• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into small pieces
• 3/4 cup raw pecans, chopped
• 2/3 cup gluten-free multipurpose flour

Assembly and Baking

• 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar
• 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour
• 1/3 cup caramel sauce

Pro Tips for Decadent Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Tart Recipe

Pro Tips:

For the gluten-free crust, make sure to use a multipurpose flour blend with xanthan gum for the best texture. Sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps and opt for a high butterfat brand of unsalted butter for better control. Chill the dough before rolling it out for easier handling.

When making the apple filling, taste your apples before cooking and adjust the sugar accordingly based on their sweetness. Keep the caramel sauce warm for easier swirling and even coverage on the tart. For a nut-free option, omit the pecans in the streusel or substitute with walnuts or hazelnuts. Remember that the tart can be baked a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature or in the fridge for freshness.

How to Make Decadent Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Tart Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine gluten-free flour, almond flour, and kosher salt in a small bowl, and whisk together. Set aside.

Step 2: Step 02

Using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat room-temperature butter and powdered sugar until smooth, being careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Step 03

Incorporate the room-temperature egg into the mixture, then gradually mix in the dry ingredients on low speed until a dough forms.

Step 4: Step 04

Place the dough on a clean surface, form into a 1-inch thick disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour to 3 days.

Step 5: Step 05

Roll out the dough on floured parchment to 1/8–1/4 inch thickness. Transfer to a 9.5-inch tart pan, pressing into edges. Trim excess leaving a 1/4 inch overhang. Chill for 30 minutes before using.

Step 6: Step 06

Melt butter, let cool. Combine flour, brown sugar, pecans, cinnamon, salt in a bowl. Mix in melted butter to form crumbles. Chill until ready to use.

Step 7: Step 07

1. Toss diced apples with lemon juice.
2. Combine brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
3. Melt butter in a sauté pan, cook apples until starting to soften.
4. Stir in brown sugar mixture, vanilla, and cook until thickened.
5. Cool completely before using.

Step 8: Step 08

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Dock the crust bottom with a fork.
3. Place parchment or foil over crust and fill with pie weights.
4. Bake for 15 minutes.
5. Remove weights and parchment, increase oven temperature to 375°F.
6. Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes or until golden.
7. Cool on a wire rack.

Step 9: Step 09

Combine gluten-free flour and granulated sugar in a small bowl, then evenly sprinkle over the cooled tart shell.

Step 10: Step 10

Evenly spread the cooled apple filling into the crust, being careful to avoid any excess juices. Drizzle the caramel sauce in a swirling motion from the center to the edge.

Step 11: Step 11

Sprinkle chilled pecan streusel over apples. Bake at 375°F for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 32–38 minutes until streusel is golden and filling bubbles. Ensure internal fruit temperature reaches 200°F.

Step 12: Step 12

Allow the tart to cool in the pan for at least 2 hours before slicing. The filling will thicken as it cools.

Storage Tips

After baking the Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart, it’s essential to let it cool completely before storing. To maintain the tart’s texture and prevent the crust from becoming soggy, loosely cover it and keep it on the counter for the first day. Afterward, you can transfer it to the refrigerator for longer storage. This method helps deepen the flavors and keeps the caramel gooey without compromising the tart’s base. When reheating, it’s recommended to warm the tart in a low oven for a few minutes rather than using a microwave for better results.

If you plan to make the tart in advance, rest assured that it can be baked a day ahead. Store the finished tart covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Whether you opt for a store-bought caramel sauce or homemade version, both options work well for swirling and adding extra flavor to the tart. By following these storage tips, you can enjoy the Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart at its best for gatherings, special occasions, or cozy autumn treats.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart, you can make a few ingredient substitutions to suit your preferences or dietary needs. If you don’t have almond flour, you can substitute it with an equal amount of gluten-free multipurpose flour for the crust. Additionally, if you are looking to make the tart nut-free, you can omit the pecans in the streusel or replace them with seeds like pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can experiment with the spices in the apple filling. Consider adding a dash of cardamom or using apple pie spice instead of the cinnamon and nutmeg for a unique twist. You can also swap the pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts for a different nutty flavor in the streusel. Moreover, if you don’t have caramel sauce on hand, you can use a different flavored sauce like butterscotch or even a fruit compote for a creative topping on the tart.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try pairing slices of the Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. The warm tart and the cold, velvety ice cream create a delightful contrast in textures and temperatures that will elevate this dessert to the next level. The ice cream slowly melting over the tart adds a luxurious touch to each bite, making it a truly indulgent treat.

Another fun way to serve the Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart is by drizzling extra warm caramel sauce over the top just before serving. This extra layer of caramel not only adds a beautiful finishing touch to the dessert but also intensifies the sweet and buttery flavors of the apples and pecan streusel. The extra drizzle of caramel creates a stunning presentation that will impress your guests and make this tart the star of any gathering.

FAQs for Decadent Gluten-Free Caramel Apple Tart Recipe

Can I use a different type of nuts for the streusel topping?

Yes, walnuts or hazelnuts work well, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free option.

Why sprinkle a flour-sugar mixture in the shell before adding the filling?

Sprinkling a flour-sugar mixture in the shell helps absorb extra moisture from the apples, preventing a soggy crust.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of homemade?

Absolutely! Use your favorite store-bought caramel or homemade if preferred for extra flavor depth.

Can I bake the tart a day in advance?

Yes, it can be baked a day in advance. Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for freshness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart is a delightful treat that brings together the best of fall flavors in a gluten-free and crowd-pleasing dessert. Each layer of this tart is carefully crafted to create a symphony of textures and tastes that will surely impress your family and friends. The cozy combination of spiced apples, buttery pecan streusel, and rich caramel drizzle will make this tart a favorite for any occasion.

Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly intricate layers of this tart – the simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply craving a taste of autumn, this Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart is sure to be a hit. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to a slice of this delightful tart that is bound to become a seasonal favorite.