What is the difference between apple pie and French apple pie?

The main difference between apple pie and French apple pie lies in the crust, filling, and presentation. Traditional American apple pie typically has a double crust (top and bottom) with a chunky, spiced apple filling. In contrast, French apple pie , often called Tarte aux Pommes , features a single pastry crust and thinly sliced apples arranged in an elegant spiral pattern. Some variations, like Tarte Tatin , are baked upside-down with caramelized apples.

Does French apple pie have raisins in it?

No, French apple pie does not traditionally contain raisins. Unlike some Dutch or German apple pies , which often include raisins for added sweetness and texture, French apple pie focuses on the natural flavor of apples , sometimes enhanced with a thin layer of almond cream (frangipane) or a light glaze. However, raisins can be added as a personal preference.

How long do I bake a French apple pie?

A French apple pie (Tarte aux Pommes) typically bakes for 35 to 40 minutes at 375°F (190°C) . The baking time ensures that the crust is golden and crisp , while the apple slices become tender and slightly caramelized . For variations like Tarte Tatin , the apples are caramelized on the stovetop first, then baked with pastry for about 25 to 30 minutes .

Why is Dutch apple pie so good?

Dutch apple pie is popular because of its crumbly, streusel topping , which adds a buttery, crunchy contrast to the soft, spiced apple filling. Unlike traditional American apple pie, which has a double crust, Dutch apple pie features a sweet and crispy crumble topping made of flour, butter, and sugar . The combination of textures— flaky crust, tender apples, and crunchy topping —makes it especially delicious and satisfying. Some recipes also include raisins or custard for extra richness.

Can I make French Apple Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust and apple filling in advance. Store the dough wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage. You can also assemble the tart a few hours before baking, but it's best to bake it fresh for the best texture.

What’s the best crust for a French Apple Pie?

The best choice depends on your preference: Pâte Brisée (Shortcrust Pastry) – Flaky and neutral, ideal for classic tarts. Pâte Sucrée (Sweet Pastry) – Slightly sweeter with a crisp texture, great for a dessert-style tart. Puff Pastry – Light and airy, commonly used for Tarte Tatin.

Can I use store-bought pastry?

Yes, pre-made shortcrust or puff pastry works well if you're short on time. Just make sure to roll it out evenly and chill it before baking for the best results.

What’s the best way to caramelize apples?

For a deep caramelized flavor , cook the apples in butter and sugar before adding them to the tart. For extra richness, you can also deglaze the pan with Calvados or apple brandy .

How do I prevent my pie from being too runny?

To avoid excess moisture: Pre-cook apples to remove extra liquid. Use firmer apple varieties that hold their shape. Add a little cornstarch to thicken the filling without making it gummy.

Can I make French Apple Pie without sugar?

Yes! You can use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar . If you prefer a tart flavor, simply rely on the natural sweetness of the apples.

French Apple Pie: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert

Name: French Apple Pie: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour; ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ¼ cup (50g) sugar (for pâte sucrée only); ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 3 tablespoons cold water; 4-5 apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious); ¼ cup (50g) sugar; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons Calvados (optional); 2 tablespoons apricot jam; 1 tablespoon warm water

Description

French Apple Pie, also known as Tarte aux Pommes, is a classic French dessert featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with thinly sliced caramelized apples, arranged beautifully in a spiral pattern. Unlike American apple pie, this elegant tart is lighter, has no top crust, and is often glazed with apricot jam for a glossy finish. Perfect for any occasion, it pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust (Pâte Brisée or Pâte Sucrée)

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup (50g) sugar (for pâte sucrée only)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
3 tablespoons cold water

For the Apple Filling

4–5 apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious)
¼ cup (50g) sugar
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons Calvados (optional)

For the Glaze

2 tablespoons apricot jam
1 tablespoon warm water

Instructions

Prepare the Crust
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar (if using), and salt. Add cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it forms coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap it in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Pre-Bake the Crust
Roll out the chilled dough and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and pre-bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. In a pan, melt butter and stir in sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Add the apples and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly. Stir in lemon juice and Calvados (if using), then let the mixture cool.
Assemble the Tart
Arrange the apple slices in a spiral or fan pattern over the pre-baked crust. Overlap slightly to create an elegant design.
Bake the Tart
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes until the apples are tender and golden.
Glaze for a Shiny Finish
Warm the apricot jam with water and brush it over the apples to create a glossy finish.
Cool and Serve
Let the tart cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream.

Notes

For a crispier crust, brush the pre-baked tart shell with egg wash before adding apples.
For extra caramelization, sprinkle a little brown sugar on the apples before baking.
If using puff pastry, reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Tarte Tatin variation: Caramelize apples with sugar and butter in a skillet, cover with pastry, then bake upside-down.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: French

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 280
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 120mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: French Apple Pie, Tarte aux Pommes, French apple tart, caramelized apple pie, rustic apple dessert