When you think of the classic French tarte tatin, you likely envision a satisfying dessert. This upside-down tart is a favorite for many, with caramelized apples and a crisp, buttery crust that makes each bite a treat. But what happens when you take this well-loved dessert and make it individual-sized, with just the right amount of elegance to pair with something as luxurious as caviar? A beautifully delicious dessert that will impress any guest.

Our individual tarte tatin recipe brings a delightful balance of sweetness, acidity, and rich, golden caramel that’s just the right amount of indulgent. These mini tarts are perfectly sized for a dessert, making them an excellent choice for a dinner party or as a treat. 

Ingredients:

• 2 Granny Smith apples

• 1 sheet of puff pastry

• 100g sugar

• Juice of half a lemon

• 45g water

• Pinch of salt

• 30g mild butter

Directions:

1. Prepare the Apples: Start by peeling the apples, cutting them in half, and removing the seeds. Slice the apples into pieces that will fit comfortably into your individual tart molds. Each slice should be just large enough to fit, creating a neat layer of apples once they’re placed in the mold.
   
   

2. Make the Caramel: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Heat the mixture over low heat, stirring gently, until the sugar dissolves and the liquid begins to turn a light golden brown. This should take just a few minutes, so keep a close eye on it to avoid burning the sugar.
   
   

3. Add Butter and Salt: Once the caramel reaches a rich golden color, remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the butter and a pinch of salt, mixing until the butter has melted and the caramel is smooth and glossy.
   
   

4. Assemble the tarts: Carefully place the apple slices into the individual tart molds. Pour about a spoon and a half of caramel over the apples in each mold, ensuring they are well-coated.
   
   

5. Top with puff pastry: Using a round cutter, cut discs of puff pastry to fit the size of your tart molds. Lay the pastry discs on top of the apples, tucking the edges down slightly to encase the apples completely. The pastry will puff up as it bakes, creating a deliciously crisp and golden crust.
   
   

6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the tarts in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the pastry is golden and puffed up.
   
   

7. Serve: Once the tarts are done, allow them to cool for a few minutes. Carefully flip each tart onto a plate, revealing the caramelized apples on top. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of caviar for an unexpected yet indulgent pairing.
   

The perfect pairing: caviar

While caviar might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to dessert, its briny, delicate flavor complements the sweet, rich apples in the tarte tatin in a truly delightful way. We chose the Oscietra to elevate the sweetness of the caramel and add an unexpected layer of sophistication to the dessert. The smooth texture of the caviar contrasts beautifully with the crisp puff pastry and tender apples.

This twist on the classic French dessert brings a touch of elegance to any meal, whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat. And when paired with the flavors of Volzhenka caviar, it’s sure to be a memorable finish to your meal.