The first bite of this Apple Rose Tart takes me back to sunny afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. The sweet scent of cinnamon mingling with the tartness of fresh apples filled the house, inviting everyone to gather. When I discovered how easy it is to create this stunning dessert, it felt like uncovering a hidden treasure in my recipe collection.
Perfect for impressing family and friends, this elegant tart is as delightful to make as it is to enjoy. The combination of tender apple slices laid in a beautiful rose pattern over a buttery, flaky crust transforms an everyday dessert into a special occasion centerpiece. Plus, with just an hour of your time, you can elevate your next gathering or simply treat yourself after a hectic week. So grab your apron and let’s turn your kitchen into a haven of delicious aromas with this simple yet sophisticated Apple Rose Tart!
Why You'll Love This Apple Rose Tart
- This Apple Rose Tart is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
- The gorgeous rose design not only enhances the visual appeal but is sure to impress anyone you serve it to.
- Bursting with flavor from tender apples and a hint of cinnamon, each bite offers a delightful combination of sweetness and tartness.
- Additionally, it takes just about an hour to prepare and bake, making it a fantastic choice for spontaneous dessert cravings or last-minute gatherings.
Apple Rose Tart Ingredients
Get ready to create a stunning dessert masterpiece!
For the Crust
- All-purpose flour – provides a sturdy base for the tart.
- Powdered sugar – adds sweetness and helps create a tender crust.
- Salt – enhances the flavors of the dough.
- Unsalted butter – ensures a rich, buttery flavor; keep it cold for a flaky texture.
- Large egg yolk – helps bind the dough together.
- Cold water – adds moisture without warming the dough, making it easier to work with.
For the Apple Filling
- Medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) – slice them thinly for delicate, rose-like layers.
- Lemon juice – prevents the apples from browning and adds a hint of brightness.
- Granulated sugar – balances the tartness of the apples with a touch of sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon – infuses the tart with warm, inviting flavor.
For the Topping
- Butter (melted) – drizzled over the apples for extra richness and moisture.
- Apricot jam – gives the tart a glossy finish and enhances the overall flavor.
- Water – used to thin out the apricot jam for easy glazing.
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a beautiful and delicious Apple Rose Tart that will wow everyone at the table!

How to Make Apple Rose Tart
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is essential for achieving a perfectly baked crust and tender apples.
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Combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix these dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution.
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Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to achieve this texture, about 2-3 minutes.
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Mix in the egg yolk, then add cold water one tablespoon at a time. Stop when the dough holds together, usually around 2-3 tablespoons total will be enough.
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Chill the dough by forming it into a disk, wrapping it in plastic, and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes. This helps create that flaky crust we all love!
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Slice the apples thinly and place them into a bowl. Aim for even slices to maintain a pretty rose pattern.
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Drizzle the lemon juice over your apple slices to prevent browning; this keeps your tart looking fresh and vibrant.
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Combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl, then sprinkle it over the apples. Toss gently to ensure every slice is coated in sweetness!
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Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle about 1/8 inch thick. Keep moving it around to prevent sticking, guiding yourself with a rolling pin.
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Transfer the rolled dough into a 9-inch tart pan, pressing gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough for a clean finish.
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Arrange the apple slices starting from the outer edge and overlapping them to create a beautiful rose pattern. Fill the tart completely and make it your own!
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Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the apple roses, giving them that little extra love for flavor and moisture.
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Bake the tart in your preheated oven for 30–40 minutes, until the apples are tender and the crust turns golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
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Cool the tart for about 15 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan. Patience here will help maintain the shape!
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Heat the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth. This glaze adds an exquisite finish to your tart!
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Brush the warm glaze over the apple slices if desired. It gives a glossy sheen and enhances flavor – yum!
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Serve your Apple Rose Tart sliced warm or at room temperature. Pair it with whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful treat!
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a charming presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Rose Tart
Fridge: Store leftover Apple Rose Tart tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the tart fresh while allowing the flavors to meld.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire tart in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Serving: Enjoy the tart warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Apple Rose Tart?
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these delightful options alongside your stunning Apple Rose Tart.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture complements the tart’s warm apples and enhances the overall flavor enjoyment.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it adds a touch of sweetness that balances the tartness of the apples beautifully.
- Coffee: A rich brew awakens the senses, making it a perfect companion to savor with every slice.
- Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries and raspberries provides a refreshing contrast, adding a burst of color and tang.
- Mint Leaves: Garnishing with fresh mint offers an aromatic, herbal note that elevates both flavor and presentation.
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai harmonize perfectly with the cinnamon in the tart, creating a cozy treat.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling over the slice adds a decadent, buttery sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple flavors.
- Almonds: Toasted sliced almonds sprinkled on top give a delightful crunch that contrasts the soft apple slices.
- Lemon Sorbet: A light, zesty sorbet refreshes the palate and enhances the fruity notes of the tart.
Apple Rose Tart Variations
Want to make this gorgeous Apple Rose Tart even more exciting? Here are a few delicious twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a tender crust that everyone can enjoy.
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Vegan: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter, and replace the egg yolk with 2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal mixed with water.
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Caramel Drizzle: Add a homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the baked tart for a rich, sweet contrast to the tart apples. Each bite will be a delightful surprise!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts, like walnuts or almonds, over the apples before baking for added texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweet filling beautifully.
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Cinnamon Sugar: Enhance the flavor by mixing some cinnamon sugar with the apples before arranging them in the tart for an extra layer of sweetness.
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Berry Bliss: Toss in a handful of fresh berries (like raspberries or blueberries) among the apple slices for a fruity twist that adds color and tartness.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ginger to the apple mixture for a surprising warmth that elevates the dessert’s complexity.
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Apricot Substitute: Swap out the apricot jam with raspberry or peach preserves for a different glaze that will change the flavor profile while maintaining that lovely shine.
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Rose Tart components are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain its freshness and flaky texture. Additionally, the apple slices can be prepped up to 3 days ahead by tossing them with lemon juice to prevent browning and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the tart by rolling out the chilled dough, placing the apples in a rose pattern, and drizzling with butter before baking. This way, you can have a beautiful, delicious dessert ready to impress without the last-minute rush!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making the Apple Rose Tart, ensure your butter is extremely cold to achieve a flaky crust; this is a common mistake many home bakers make.
- When slicing the apples, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and create a beautiful rose pattern.
- For extra flavor, consider tossing the apple slices with a bit of brown sugar along with the granulated sugar and cinnamon, enhancing the overall taste.
- Bake the tart until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender to prevent any undercooked or soggy sections that can detract from the presentation.
Apple Rose Tart Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the Apple Rose Tart?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet varieties like Honeycrisp. The balance between sweetness and tartness creates a delightful harmony in your dessert. Try to select apples that are firm and crisp, as they hold up well during baking.
How should I store leftover Apple Rose Tart?
Store any leftover Apple Rose Tart tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I usually wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the crust somewhat flaky!
Can I freeze the Apple Rose Tart?
Yes, you can freeze the tart! To do so, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with foil to prevent freezer burn. This way, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the tart in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if my crust is too crumbly?
If your tart crust is crumbly, don’t worry, it happens! Simply add a little more cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together nicely. Make sure to handle it gently and avoid overworking the dough, as this could lead to a tough crust. A good rule of thumb is to stop mixing once you see it start to hold together.
Can I make this tart gluten-free?
Very! If you have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Be sure to choose a blend with xanthan gum included to help bind the dough together. It might require a small adjustment in the amount of cold water, so add it gradually while mixing.
Is this Apple Rose Tart safe for pets?
No, homemade desserts like this Apple Rose Tart are not suitable for pets, especially cats and dogs. Ingredients like sugar and butter aren’t healthy for them in significant amounts, and the baked tart may contain toxic levels of certain fruits or spices. Always consult your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends!

Apple Rose Tart
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour provides a sturdy base for the tart.
- 2 tablespoons Powdered sugar adds sweetness and helps create a tender crust.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt enhances the flavors of the dough.
- 1/2 cup Unsalted butter ensure it is cold for a flaky texture.
- 1 large Egg yolk helps bind the dough together.
- 2-3 tablespoons Cold water adds moisture without warming the dough.
- 2-3 medium Apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) slice them thinly for delicate layers.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning.
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar balances the tartness of the apples.
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon infuses the tart with warm flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Butter melted, for drizzling over apples.
- 1 tablespoon Apricot jam gives the tart a glossy finish.
- 1 tablespoon Water used to thin the apricot jam.
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix in the egg yolk, then add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together.
- Chill the dough by forming it into a disk, wrapping in plastic, and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice the apples thinly and place them into a bowl.
- Drizzle lemon juice over the apple slices to prevent browning.
- Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle it over the apples and toss gently.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle about 1/8 inch thick.
- Transfer the rolled dough into a 9-inch tart pan, pressing gently into the bottom and sides.
- Arrange the apple slices starting from the outer edge and overlapping to create a rose pattern.
- Drizzle melted butter evenly over the apple roses.
- Bake the tart in your preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until the apples are tender.
- Cool the tart for about 15 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan.
- Heat apricot jam and water in a small saucepan over low heat until smooth.
- Brush the warm glaze over the apple slices if desired.
- Serve your Apple Rose Tart sliced warm or at room temperature.




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