Apple Tarte Tatin

recipe

• Step 1
  Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash & peel the apples. Cut them into quarters, removing the core.
• Step 2
  Add half the butter & half the sugar to a pan over medium heat. Stir frequently, until it melts & caramelizes.
• Step 3
  Cut the vanilla bean in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides using a knife. Feel free to use vanilla extract, essence or paste instead. (Optional)
• Step 4
  Once the caramel starts to darken in the pan, add the vanilla (optional) & the apples. Reduce the heat to low & cook for 15 min. Stir occasionally, but keep an eye on it to be sure it doesn't burn.
• Step 5
  In a bowl, combine the flour, the rest of the butter (softened to room temperature), the rest of the sugar & a pinch of salt.
• Step 6
  Mix with your hands until the dough forms a crumbly texture. Add the egg yolk & mix. Add dash or more of cold water, until the dough comes together to form a ball.
• Step 7
  Flour your work surface. Roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Then roll it up on the rolling pin.
• Step 8
  When the apples are lightly browned on the outside & slightly translucent, remove from heat.
• Step 9
  Grease a cake pan or round baking dish. Place the vanilla bean in the bottom of the pan (optional).
• Step 10
  Pour the apples & the caramel into the cake pan. Arrange the apples in a single layer.
• Step 11
  Unroll the dough onto the top of the cake pan, folding in the edges. Prick a few times with a fork. Bake for 20 min at 400°F.
• Step 12
  Remove from the oven & let cool for 5 min.
• Step 13
  Place a large plate over the top of the cake pan. Hold it firmly in place, then quickly flip over the tart. Remove the cake pan. Enjoy!