French Apple Tarte Tatin

Instructions

1. 1

   1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel, core, and quarter your apples, then toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning.

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   2. In an oven-safe 9-inch cast iron skillet or heavy bottomed pan, melt 1/2 cup of the butter over medium heat. Add 3/4 cup of the sugar and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and turns a rich amber caramel color, about 5-7 minutes.

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   3. Carefully arrange the apple quarters tightly in a single layer over the caramel in a decorative pattern, cut-side down. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup sugar over the apples, along with the vanilla extract and salt.

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   4. Cook on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly and absorb some of the caramel. Remove from heat.

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   5. Roll out the thawed puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a 10-inch circle, slightly larger than your skillet. Carefully place the puff pastry over the apples, tucking the edges down around the fruit and into the sides of the pan.

6. 6

   6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed. Let the tarte tatin cool in the skillet on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.

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   7. To serve, place a large serving plate over the skillet and, using oven mitts, carefully but confidently flip the tarte onto the plate. Scrape any remaining caramel from the pan over the apples. Serve warm with créme fraîche, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream if desired.