Apple Butter Pecan Tart -

Apple Butter Pecan Tart

Discover the joy of fall with this delicious Apple Butter Pecan Tart! This charming dessert features a buttery, flaky crust filled with spiced apple butter and topped with crunchy, toasted pecans. Perfect for any season, from Thanksgiving gatherings to cozy nights in, each slice delivers an inviting aroma and delightful flavor. Learn how to create this heartwarming dessert that combines sweetness and nuttiness for a truly comforting experience.

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Ingredients

For the Tart Shell:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

1 large egg yolk

2 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Butter Filling:

2 cups apple butter (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

For the Pecan Topping:

1 cup pecan halves

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1/4 cup pure maple syrup

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

A pinch of salt

Instructions

Make the Tart Shell:

- In a large mixing bowl, gently whisk together the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt until well blended.

- Add the chilled, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, combine until the mixture takes on a fine, crumbly texture.

- Incorporate the egg yolk, and then add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together without being sticky. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crust.

- Form the dough into a flat disk, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.

Preheat the Oven:

- While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Roll Out the Dough:

- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Transfer the rolled dough to the tart pan, gently pressing it into place and trimming any excess dough hanging over the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent bubbles.

Pre-Bake the Tart Shell:

- Bake the tart shell in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until it turns lightly golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.

Prepare the Apple Butter Filling:

- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the apple butter, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Stir well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Assemble the Tart:

- Pour the apple butter mixture into the pre-baked tart shell, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Prepare the Pecan Topping:

- In a separate bowl, combine the pecan halves, brown sugar, maple syrup, melted butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until all pecans are evenly coated.

Top the Tart:

- Evenly distribute the prepared pecan mixture over the layer of apple butter filling, ensuring a good coverage.

Bake the Tart:

- Return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the pecans are golden and the filling is bubbly.

Cool and Serve:

- Once baked, allow the tart to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in your Apple Butter Pecan Tart!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 mins | 1 hr | 8 servings

- Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve each slice of tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful finish.