Name: Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups gluten-free multipurpose flour; 1/3 cup almond flour, finely ground; 3/5 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature, cut into small pieces; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 medium apples, peeled and diced (about 1.65 pounds); 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice; 1/3 cup light brown sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2/3 cup gluten-free multipurpose flour; 1/3 cup light brown sugar; 3/4 cup raw pecans, chopped; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold, cut into small pieces; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/3 cup caramel sauce; 1 tablespoon gluten-free flour; 1 tablespoon granulated white sugar

Print Recipe

Introduction to Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart

Nothing warms the heart like the scent of apples baking in cinnamon, especially when it leads to a delightful treat like a gluten free caramel apple tart. I can still remember the first time I made this irresistible dessert; my kids were mesmerized by the caramel drizzled over the baked apples. It’s the perfect solution for a busy day when you need a quick dessert that feels fancy. Not only is it gluten-free, making it a solid choice for those with dietary restrictions, but it’s also deliciously comforting. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart

This gluten free caramel apple tart is an absolute game changer! It balances simplicity and satisfaction beautifully. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal treat even for the busiest of moms. The warm, spiced apple filling combined with the crunchy pecan streusel will have your family raving. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice! Trust me, this dessert is a must-try!

Ingredients for Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart

Gathering the right ingredients is essential to create your gluten free caramel apple tart. Each component adds its unique flair, making this dessert a delightful experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

Gluten-free multipurpose flour: The base of your crust, providing the necessary structure without gluten.
Almond flour: This finely ground flour adds a rich, nutty flavor and enhances the crust’s texture.
Powdered sugar: It sweetens the crust while making it tender and crumbly—perfect for dessert!
Kosher salt: Just a pinch elevates flavors, balancing sweetness beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor to both the crust and streusel. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Egg: This will bind the crust together, giving it that perfect texture.
Medium apples: I like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples, bringing complexity to the filling.
Fresh lemon juice: A splash prevents apples from browning while adding a touch of brightness.
Brown sugar: It gives a deeper sweetness with hints of caramel; truly a must for the filling.
Cornstarch: This thickens your apple filling and helps it set nicely.
Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth, making your house smell heavenly as it bakes.
Vanilla extract: A splash enhances the sweetness of your filling.
Pecans: Chopped and mixed into the streusel, these add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with soft apples.
Caramel sauce: Drizzled over the tart, caramel brings an indulgent touch that everyone will love.

You can find all the exact measurements for these ingredients listed at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Remember to choose gluten-free labeled products to avoid cross-contamination!

How to Make Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart

Now, let’s dive into the real fun—making this fabulous gluten free caramel apple tart! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have a stunning dessert to share. Trust me; it’s easier than it might seem!

Prepare the Tart Crust

First, it’s all about that buttery, flaky crust. Start by whisking together your gluten-free multipurpose flour, almond flour, and kosher salt in a small bowl. This combo creates a great base.

In your stand mixer, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Avoid overmixing, as we want that flaky texture! Once creamy, add the room-temperature egg and mix until it all comes together.

Slowly incorporate the dry flour mixture, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms. Then, shape it into a thick disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for at least one hour, or even up to three days!

Make the Pecan Streusel Topping

While your dough is chilling, let’s get crunchy with the pecan streusel! Melt a bit of butter and set it aside to cool.

In a bowl, whisk together your gluten-free flour, light brown sugar, chopped pecans, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt. Next, drizzle the cooled melted butter over the mixture. Use a fork or spatula to combine everything until it forms crumbles. Pop this in the fridge until you’re ready to use it!

Cook the Apple Filling

If your taste buds are tingling, it’s time for the filling! Begin by tossing your diced apples with fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning. In another bowl, mix brown sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This is where that warmth and flavor come from!

Now, melt some unsalted butter in a sauté pan and add those diced apples. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the sugar mixture and vanilla, cooking until it thickens up beautifully. Let this apple filling cool completely before using it.

Bake the Tart Shell

It’s almost tart time! Preheat your oven to 350°F. Take your chilled tart dough and roll it out on floured parchment to about 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.

Drape the dough into a 9.5-inch tart pan, pressing it into the edges nicely. Don’t worry about perfection; rustic is in style! Trim any excess dough, leaving a little overhang. Now, chill the crust for about 30 minutes.

Poke the crust’s bottom with a fork, cover it with parchment, and fill it with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes. After that, remove the weights and parchment, raise the oven temperature to 375°F, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until golden brown. Let it cool on a rack!

Assemble the Tart

This is where the magic happens! In a small bowl, mix a bit of gluten-free flour with granulated sugar and sprinkle it evenly over your cooled tart shell. Next, spread the cooled apple filling over the crust, avoiding excess juices.

To add that indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce in a lovely swirl from the center to the edge. Now, time to top it off!

Final Bake

Sprinkle the chilled pecan streusel generously over the apples, covering them with a delightful crunch. Bake the tart at 375°F for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 32-38 minutes until the streusel is beautifully golden and the filling is bubbly.

Your filling should hit an internal temperature of at least 200°F. Trust the process; it will be worth the wait!

Cool and Serve

Patience is a virtue here! Allow your gluten free caramel apple tart to cool for at least 2 hours in the pan. As it cools, the filling will set, making slicing a breeze. When the time is right, remove the tart from the pan, slice, and serve!

You’ll have a stunning tart ready to impress everyone at the table. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for easier mixing.
Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps the crust maintain its shape.
For a deeper flavor, experiment with different apple varieties.
Monitor the baking closely to prevent the streusel from burning.
Let the tart cool completely for the best slicing results.

Equipment Needed

Stand mixer: A hand mixer works too if you don’t have a stand mixer.
Tart pan: A pie dish can be an alternative for baking.
Rolling pin: A wine bottle can work in a pinch!
Measuring cups: Kitchen scales can help if you prefer precision.
Mixing bowls: Any bowls will do, just ensure they are large enough.

Variations

Nut-Free Option: Swap pecans for gluten-free oats or sunflower seeds for a crunchy topping without nuts.
Different Apple Varieties: Experiment with tart Granny Smith apples or sweet Honeycrisp for a unique flavor profile.
Caramel Swaps: Use homemade caramel sauce or dulce de leche for a different twist.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of clove or allspice to the apple filling for an even warmer, spicier taste.
Vegan Version: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg replacer.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Sprinkle some extra crushed pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
Serve with a warm cup of chai or spiced cider to complement the tart’s sweetness.
Drizzle additional caramel sauce over individual slices for a show-stopping presentation.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and freshness.

FAQs about Gluten Free Caramel Apple Tart

Can I make this gluten free caramel apple tart ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tart up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving. It makes for an easy dessert on busy days!

What types of apples work best for the filling?
I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples for flavor depth. Granny Smith apples add a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji bring sweetness. Experiment to find your favorite combo!

Can I freeze leftover tart?
Yes, you can freeze slices of your gluten free caramel apple tart! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

What’s the best way to store the tart?
Keep your tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If it lasts longer than that, refrigerate it to maintain freshness.

Can I substitute the nuts in the streusel topping?
Definitely! You can swap out the pecans for gluten-free oats or even crushed cookies for a fun twist in flavor and texture. Enjoy experimenting!

Final Thoughts

This gluten free caramel apple tart is more than just a delicious dessert; it’s a heartfelt creation that brings people together. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a special celebration, this tart adds warmth and sweetness to any occasion. The way the crispy crust cradles the spiced apple filling, topped with a crunchy streusel, is perfection on a plate. The joy on my family’s faces as they savor each bite is what makes it all worthwhile. I hope this recipe finds a special place in your home, creating beautiful memories one slice at a time!