Apple Galette

Apple Galette is a rustic, free-form pastry that’s a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of fresh apples, cinnamon, and buttery pastry. It’s easier to make than a traditional pie but still offers that same cozy, fall-inspired sweetness. Here’s how to make a delicious Apple Galette:

Apple Galette

Ingredients:

For the Pastry:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water (more if needed)

For the Filling:

• 4-5 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of both works great)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thicker filling)
• 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces (for topping)

For Assembly:

• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling, optional)

Instructions:

1. Make the Pastry Dough:

   • In a food processor, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with pea-sized butter pieces.
   • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing after each addition, until the dough begins to form a ball.
   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead it a few times to bring it together, then flatten it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

   • While the dough chills, peel, core, and slice the apples into thin slices (about 1/4-inch thick).
   • In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch (if using). Set the mixture aside to let the flavors meld.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. It doesn’t have to be perfect; rustic is the key!
   • Transfer the rolled-out dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

4. Assemble the Galette:

   • Spoon the apple mixture into the center of the dough, leaving about a 2-inch border around the edges.
   • Dot the apples with the small pieces of butter.
   • Gently fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as you go around to form a border.

5. Bake:

   • Brush the exposed dough with the beaten egg to give it a golden shine as it bakes.
   • Sprinkle the galette with coarse sugar for a sweet, crunchy finish.
   • Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Let the galette cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature.
   • Optional: top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence!

This Apple Galette is a simple yet elegant dessert that’s bursting with warm, spiced apple flavor and has a perfectly flaky crust. It’s a great way to enjoy apples without the fuss of a traditional pie. Enjoy!