Apple and Pecan Tart

There’s something magical about the warm, spiced aroma of a freshly baked apple and pecan tart filling the kitchen. With its buttery, flaky crust, tender caramelized apples, and crunchy spiced pecans, this tart is the ultimate fall dessert—perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday baking.

Imagine slicing into the golden-brown pastry, watching the syrupy apples glisten, and savoring the sweet, nutty goodness in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping treat for Thanksgiving or just craving a comforting homemade dessert, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Apple and Pecan Tart

Baking this apple and pecan tart isn’t just about creating a delicious dessert—it’s about bringing warmth and comfort to your home. Here’s why you’ll love this recipe:

Perfect Fall Flavors – The combination of caramelized apples, spiced pecans, and a buttery, flaky crust makes this tart a seasonal favorite.

Easy Yet Impressive – Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is simple to follow but looks bakery-worthy.

Crispy and Tender Contrast – The golden-brown pastry stays crisp, while the soft, syrupy apples and crunchy pecans create the perfect bite.

Versatile and Customizable – Swap out pecans for walnuts, add a drizzle of maple syrup, or spice it up with extra cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste.This tart is more than just a dessert—it’s a cozy experience that’s perfect for holiday baking, family gatherings, or even a quiet evening with a cup of tea.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to making a perfect apple and pecan tart. This recipe brings together the natural sweetness of apples, the richness of pecans, and the flakiness of a buttery tart crust. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crust

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – The base of your tart, creating a soft, flaky texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Essential for a rich, flaky crust.
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water – Helps bind the dough together without making it soggy.

For the Filling

• 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well) – Choose a tart variety for balance against the sweet filling.
• ¾ cup chopped pecans – Adds texture and a deep, nutty flavor.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – For a warm, caramel-like sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – A bit of sweetness to complement the apples.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, perfect for fall.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – A touch of nutmeg brings depth to the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – Brightens the apple filling and prevents browning.
• 1 egg – Used to brush on the crust for a golden, glossy finish.

These ingredients come together to create the ultimate fall dessert that will warm your kitchen and please your guests. Fresh, seasonal apples and toasted pecans are the stars of this tart, while the buttery crust brings everything together in the most delicious way.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s walk through how to make this apple and pecan tart from scratch. Follow these simple steps for a flaky crust, tender apples, and a perfectly caramelized pecan topping.

1. Prepare the Tart Crust

1. In a large bowl, whisk the flour and sugar together.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Mix in the egg yolk, then gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This ensures a flaky, crisp crust.
5. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Gently press it into the pan and trim any excess.

2. Make the Apple Filling

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to release their natural juices.
3. Arrange the apples evenly over the prepared crust, slightly overlapping for a beautiful layered effect.

3. Prepare the Pecan Topping

1. In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans, melted butter, maple syrup, and sea salt.
2. Sprinkle the pecan mixture over the apples, ensuring even coverage for a nutty crunch in every bite.

4. Bake the Tart

1. Place the tart on a baking sheet and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
2. If the edges brown too quickly, lightly cover them with foil halfway through baking.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a rich treat.

Now, take a bite and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery crust, spiced apples, and caramelized pecans—a dessert that truly captures the essence of fall!

Pro Tips and Variations

Want to make this apple and pecan tart even more special? Here are a few pro tips and variations to help you customize the recipe and elevate your baking game.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Tart

• Use cold butter for the crust. This is key to achieving that flaky, tender texture. Don’t skip the chilling step!
• Blind bake the crust. If you want an extra-crispy bottom, you can blind bake the crust before adding the apple filling. Simply line it with parchment paper, add some baking beans or rice, and bake for 10 minutes before filling.
• Slice apples evenly for uniform baking. Aim for slices that are around ¼ inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
• Check the crust. If the edges start to get too dark while baking, loosely cover them with foil to prevent burning.
• Let the tart cool before serving. This helps the filling set, making it simpler to slice and serve.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Swap out the pecans: Don’t have pecans? No problem! You can use walnuts, hazelnuts, or even almonds for a different flavor and texture.
• Add a splash of bourbon or rum: to the apple mixture for an extra layer of warmth and depth. Just a tablespoon or two goes a long way.
• Incorporate caramel: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the tart before serving for an irresistible touch.
• Try a fruit combo: If you’re craving something a little different, add in some pears or cranberries for a twist on the classic apple.

These tips and variations give you plenty of room to get creative with your fall dessert while keeping the apple and pecan tart at the heart of the recipe. Make it your own and enjoy the process!

How to Serve Your Apple and Pecan Tart

This apple and pecan tart is a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and garnishes. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy fall gathering or as a special dessert after dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate the experience and make it even more memorable.

1. Serve with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream

For a decadent dessert, top your tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples and crunchy pecans, creating a satisfying blend of flavors.

2. Pair with Coffee or Tea

Enjoy your tart with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai tea. The warmth of the drink complements the tart’s flavors, making it the perfect treat for cozy afternoons or intimate gatherings.

3. Serve with Caramel Sauce

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the tart before serving. The sweet and slightly salty flavor of caramel pairs wonderfully with the sweet apples and toasted pecans, making each bite even more delicious.

4. Add a Touch of Fresh Fruit

Pair your tart with a few slices of fresh pears or cranberries on the side. This adds a burst of freshness and a slight tartness that balances the richness of the dessert. You could even toss the fruit in a little cinnamon for added warmth.

5. A Light Dusting of Powdered Sugar

For a simple yet elegant presentation, dust the top of your apple and pecan tart with a little powdered sugar right before serving. This gives it a beautiful finish and a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.

Each of these suggestions will enhance your apple and pecan tart experience, whether you’re enjoying it solo or sharing with friends and family. The tart is versatile enough to suit any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations.

Final Thoughts

There you have it – the apple and pecan tart is the perfect fall dessert that combines the best flavors of the season. With its crisp, buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crunchy pecans, this tart is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a simple, elegant treat, it’s guaranteed to impress every time.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations or serving suggestions to make this recipe your own. The beauty of this tart lies in its versatility, making it ideal for everything from cozy family dinners to festive holiday gatherings. If you’re in the mood for another indulgent treat, check out our White Chocolate Cheesecake for a rich and creamy dessert option!

Apple and Pecan Tart

Ella

This apple and pecan tart is a perfect fall dessert with a buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crunchy pecans. It's easy to make and ideal for any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 people

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
• ¼ cup granulated sweetener or sugar substitute
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 –3 tbsp ice water
• ¼ tsp salt

For the Filling:

• 3 large apples peeled, cored, and sliced
• ½ cup pecans chopped
• ¼ cup maple syrup or honey
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For Topping (Optional):

• Extra pecans for garnish
• Caramel drizzle
• Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Instructions

 

Prepare the crust:

• In a food processor, combine flour, butter, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg yolk and pulse again. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a tart pan or line with parchment paper.

Roll out the dough:

• On a floured surface, roll out the dough to fit your tart pan. Press it into the pan and trim the excess. Use a fork to prick the bottom a few times.

Prepare the apple filling:

• In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, maple syrup, melted butter, and cornstarch. Mix until well-coated.

Assemble the tart:

• Arrange the apple slices in the prepared crust, overlapping them in a circular pattern. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the apples.

Bake the tart:

• Place the tart in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.

Cool and serve:

• Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional pecans, a drizzle of caramel, and whipped cream or ice cream if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 120mg
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on portion size and ingredient brands.

Keyword Apple and Pecan Tart

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