The Apple Galette recipe is one of the most beloved French desserts, known for its rustic elegance and comforting flavors. It’s essentially a free-form apple tart that’s easier to make than a traditional pie but just as satisfying. With a buttery, flaky crust and caramelized apple filling infused with cinnamon and sugar, this dessert captures the essence of homemade baking. Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive holidays, the Apple Galette is a showstopper that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
What Is an Apple Galette?
An apple galette is a traditional French pastry that resembles a pie but without the fuss. It’s made by folding the edges of a single layer of pastry dough over sliced apples, leaving the center exposed. The result is a beautifully rustic dessert that’s both crisp and tender. The galette’s charm lies in its imperfection—it’s supposed to look handmade, giving it that cozy, homemade appeal.
Ingredients for the Apple Galette Recipe
For the crust:
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1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon granulated sugar
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½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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3–4 tablespoons ice water
For the apple filling:
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3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
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3 tablespoons white sugar
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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½ teaspoon nutmeg
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 tablespoon flour
For finishing:
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1 beaten egg (for brushing)
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1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
How to Make Apple Galette Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until the dough just holds together. Shape it into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the filling
Peel and thinly slice the apples. In a bowl, toss them with sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour until evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the galette
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle on a floured surface. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange the apple slices in the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges over the apples, pleating as you go to create a rustic crust.
Step 4: Bake the galette
Brush the crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Let it cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
The Apple Galette is delicious on its own but can be made even better with a few simple additions:
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A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing
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A drizzle of caramel or honey for extra sweetness
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A dusting of powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish
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Fresh whipped cream for a creamy contrast
Tips for Success
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Use cold butter: It ensures a flaky crust.
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Chill the dough: Helps prevent shrinking and improves texture.
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Mix apple varieties: Combining tart and sweet apples creates depth of flavor.
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Don’t overload the filling: Too much juice can make the crust soggy.
Why This Apple Galette Recipe Works
This Apple Galette recipe is simple, forgiving, and incredibly delicious. The dough is buttery and crisp, while the apple filling is warm, fragrant, and slightly caramelized. You don’t need fancy equipment or expert baking skills to achieve amazing results. It’s the perfect dessert for fall, but it tastes just as wonderful year-round.
Conclusion
The Apple Galette recipe is the perfect blend of rustic charm and refined flavor. Its golden, flaky crust and sweet apple filling make it a timeless dessert that’s easy to love and even easier to make. Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream or enjoying it plain with coffee, this French-inspired tart is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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