Apple Frangipan Tart

Story behind the dish

Imagine biting into a flaky, buttery crust that gives way to the sweet, nutty richness of frangipane, all topped with perfectly thin slices of tart Bramley apples. This Apple Frangipan Tart is a comforting classic that combines the warm aroma of almonds with the fresh, tangy bite of apples—a true celebration of British orchard bounty. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, turning humble ingredients into a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for cozy afternoons or special gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups (6 oz / 175 g) digestive biscuits
• 1/3 cup (3 oz / 75 g) butter, melted
• 7 oz (200 g) Bramley apples
• 3 oz (75 g) salted butter
• 3 oz (75 g) caster sugar
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 3 oz (75 g) ground almonds
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/3 cup (1 ¾ oz / 50 g) flaked almonds

Step-by-step

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) / 360°F (180°C Fan) / Gas Mark 6.
2. Place the digestive biscuits in a large resealable freezer bag and bash with a rolling pin until finely crushed.
3. Melt the butter in a small pan, then add the biscuit crumbs and stir until coated with butter.
4. Press this biscuit mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a tart tin, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon. Chill in the fridge to set while you prepare the filling.
5. In a bowl, cream together the salted butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. You can do this in a food processor for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Mix in the beaten eggs, then fold in the ground almonds and almond extract until well combined.
7. Peel the Bramley apples and slice them very thinly—do this at the last minute to prevent browning.
8. Arrange the apple slices neatly over the chilled biscuit base.
9. Spread the almond frangipane evenly over the apple slices, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
10. Sprinkle the flaked almonds on top.
11. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the tart is golden brown and set.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool for about 15 minutes. To remove the tart from the tin, stand the tin on a can of beans and gently push down on the sides.
13. Transfer the tart (with the tin base) to a serving plate. Serve warm, accompanied by cream, crème fraîche, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For an extra burst of almond flavor, sprinkle a little more almond extract into the filling.
• Serve this tart warm with a dollop of cream or vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.

Closing thoughts

The Apple Frangipan Tart is a true comfort dessert that combines crunchy, buttery crusts with fragrant almond filling and the bright sparkle of fresh apples. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, it’s sure to bring warmth and joy with every bite—prompting just a bit of that nostalgic feeling, wrapped up in a beautiful homemade package.