As a food enthusiast and a lover of all things sweet, I recently embarked on a culinary adventure to create the perfect Cinnamon Apple Galette. This rustic dessert, with its flaky, buttery crust and warm spiced apple filling, quickly became a household favorite. With the tantalizing aroma of cinnamon wafting through my home, it was impossible to resist. My family gathered around the table, each of us eagerly waiting for a slice of this delectable treat. The combination of tart apples and cinnamon, encased in a golden-brown crust, was nothing short of heavenly. Every bite was a delightful blend of sweet and spice, and it was clear that this Cinnamon Apple Galette was destined to become a staple in our dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

Creating a Cinnamon Apple Galette requires a selection of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to form a harmonious dessert. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions

Creating a Cinnamon Apple Galette is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with the comforting scent of baking apples and cinnamon. Follow these steps to achieve the perfect galette:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually incorporate the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Ensure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle, about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Assemble the Galette: Arrange the apple mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a border of about 2 inches around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as you go, to create a rustic edge.
5. Bake the Galette: Brush the edges of the dough with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the galette to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, for a truly indulgent treat.

Nutrition Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of your meals is important for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s what you can expect from a serving of Cinnamon Apple Galette:

Servings: 8

Calories per serving: Approximately 250 calories

Preparation Time

Making a Cinnamon Apple Galette is a process that requires a bit of patience, but the outcome is well worth the effort. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

How to Serve

Serving your Cinnamon Apple Galette is an opportunity to get creative and make the experience even more delightful. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.
• Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
• Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
• Add a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

Creating the perfect Cinnamon Apple Galette can be a breeze with a few helpful tips. Here are five suggestions to enhance your baking experience:

1. Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, tart apples such as Granny Smith, which hold their shape well during baking.
2. Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is essential for achieving a flaky crust, so work quickly to prevent it from softening.
3. Use Parchment Paper: Rolling out the dough on parchment paper makes transferring it to the baking sheet much easier.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Taste your apple filling before assembling the galette and adjust the sugar according to your preference.
5. Mind the Oven: Check the galette a few minutes before the end of the baking time to prevent over-browning.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cinnamon Apple Galette:

Q: Can I make the dough in advance?

A: Yes, the dough can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

Q: Can I use a different type of fruit?

A: Absolutely! While apples are a classic choice, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or berries for a different flavor profile.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftover galette in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to four days and reheat in the oven before serving.

Q: Can I freeze the galette?

A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked galette. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q: What can I do if my crust is too crumbly?

A: If the dough is too crumbly to roll out, try adding a bit more ice water, a teaspoon at a time, until it holds together. Be cautious not to add too much, as this can affect the texture of the crust.