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If you’re dreaming of a dessert that’s both elegant and comforting, this Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe is here to delight your senses. Imagine tender, thinly sliced Golden Delicious apples arranged beautifully atop a delicate vegan shortcrust pastry, all nestled beneath a luscious, creamy custard made with coconut cream, oat milk, and vegan yogurt. This classic French-inspired tart has been lovingly reimagined without dairy or eggs, yet it never compromises on that rich, silky texture and warming vanilla aroma that makes it so irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe plays a crucial role in creating its signature balance of flavors and textures. From the crisp vegan shortcrust pastry that forms the perfect base, to the smooth custard and juicy apples, each element brings something special to the table.
- Vegan shortcrust pastry: This buttery, crumbly base provides the sturdy yet tender foundation for the tart.
- 50 g apricot jam: A touch of sweetness and gloss that enhances the fruit and seals the crust.
- 180 ml oat milk: Adds natural creaminess without overpowering the custard.
- 200 g coconut cream (or vegan heavy cream): The key to a rich, velvety custard texture that’s completely dairy-free.
- 125 g vegan Greek-style yogurt (or thick coconut yogurt): Brings tang and thickness, balancing the custard beautifully.
- 100 g granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just right without overwhelming the apples.
- 40 g cornstarch: Acts as a gentle thickener to give the custard that perfect, silky set.
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter (block-style): Adds richness and a subtle depth of flavor to the custard.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste): Infuses warm, fragrant notes throughout the custard.
- 1 vanilla pod (optional, but recommended): For an extra layer of authentic vanilla flavor and aroma.
- 3 Golden Delicious apples: Their natural sweetness and firm texture make them ideal for thin slicing and baking.
How to Make Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegan Shortcrust Pastry
Begin by making your vegan shortcrust pastry following your chosen recipe, then par-bake it until it’s golden and set but not fully cooked through. This step ensures a crisp base that won’t get soggy once the custard and apples are added. Once baked, let the crust cool completely to room temperature—this helps keep the final tart beautifully structured.
Step 2: Glaze the Pastry Base
Warm the apricot jam gently in a saucepan so it becomes more fluid, then use a pastry brush to coat the inside of the cooled pastry shell. Be generous but leave about a tablespoon aside for glazing the tart at the end. This glaze layer not only adds a lovely fruity sweetness but also helps protect the crust from becoming soggy once the custard filling is added.
Step 3: Make the Custard Filling
In a high-speed blender, combine the oat milk, coconut cream, vegan yogurt, sugar, cornstarch, vegan butter, and vanilla extract. If you have a vanilla pod, split it open and scrape the seeds straight into the blender for a fragrant, authentic vanilla boost. Blitz everything until completely smooth and harmonious—this custard is the velvety heart of your Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe.
Step 4: Prepare the Apples
Quarter, core, and then slice the Golden Delicious apples very thinly. A mandolin slicer works wonders here for consistent, delicate slices that bake evenly. Arrange the apple slices in an elegant circular pattern on top of the apricot-glazed pastry base. This layering turns the tart into a work of art while ensuring every bite is full of tender apple flavor.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Carefully pour the prepared custard mixture over the arranged apples, filling the tart shell right to the brim. Place the tart in the oven preheated to 175°C (350°F) and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden top with a little gentle jiggle in the center — that’s your cue that the custard is perfectly set but still creamy inside.
Step 6: Final Touches and Cooling
Once baked, allow the tart to cool to room temperature. Then, gently brush the top with the remaining apricot jam glaze to give it that irresistible shine and extra fruity sweetness. For the best flavor and texture, chill the tart in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours before serving — the custard will firm up slightly, making every slice perfect.
How to Serve Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe
Garnishes
This tart is stunning on its own, but you can add a little flourish with a sprinkle of toasted almonds or a dusting of cinnamon for warmth. A sprig of fresh mint or a handful of fresh berries can brighten the presentation and add a fresh contrast to the creamy custard and tender apples.
Side Dishes
Pair your Vegan Apple Custard Tart with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an indulgent treat. A cup of freshly brewed black tea or rich espresso balances the sweetness perfectly, making any gathering feel special.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the tart into wedges and serve on vibrant ceramic plates that highlight the golden caramel tones of the apples and glaze. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little vegan caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. This tart also shines as part of a dessert buffet where guests can admire the beautiful apple arrangement before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay at its best for 2 to 3 days. This way, you can savor its delicate custard and tender apples over a few days without losing any of the mood or flavor.
Freezing
While this tart is delightful fresh or chilled, freezing isn’t ideal as the custard texture may change upon thawing. If you do need to freeze it, slice portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then thaw slowly in the refrigerator before gently reheating or serving cold.
Reheating
To warm up leftover slices, place them in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can affect the creaminess of the custard. Enjoy it slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe?
Absolutely! While Golden Delicious apples offer a perfect balance of sweetness and firmness, you can experiment with varieties like Granny Smith for a tart kick or Fuji for extra sweetness. Just choose apples that hold their shape well when baked.
Is it necessary to use coconut cream, or are there alternatives?
Coconut cream provides the luxurious richness that sets this custard apart, but you can substitute with other vegan heavy creams made from soy or cashews. Just make sure the cream you choose is thick to achieve that silky custard texture.
Can I make the vegan shortcrust pastry from scratch?
Definitely! Making your own vegan shortcrust pastry is rewarding and allows you to control ingredients. Use chilled vegan butter and just enough cold water to bind the dough—this ensures a crisp, flaky crust perfect for this tart.
What if I don’t have a mandolin for slicing apples?
No worries! A sharp paring knife works well too, just take your time slicing the apples as thinly and evenly as possible to ensure they bake uniformly and look beautiful in the final presentation.
How long should I chill the tart before serving?
For the best texture and flavor, chilling the tart for 1 to 2 hours in the fridge after baking and glazing is ideal. This allows the custard to set fully and the flavors to meld.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sharing a slice of this Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe with loved ones. It’s a dish that combines rustic charm with refined flavor, all while being entirely plant-based. Whether for a cozy family dinner or an elegant gathering, this tart brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of French flair to any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself and see how easily it becomes a keeper in your recipe collection!
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Vegan Apple Custard Tart (Tarte Normande) Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Apple Custard Tart, inspired by the classic Tarte Normande, features a flaky vegan shortcrust pastry filled with a creamy coconut and oat milk custard, topped with thinly sliced Golden Delicious apples. Lightly glazed with apricot jam, this tart is perfect for a delightful plant-based dessert that’s both elegant and comforting.
Ingredients
Pastry
- 1 batch vegan shortcrust pastry
Filling
- 180 ml oat milk
- 200 g coconut cream (or vegan heavy cream)
- 125 g vegan Greek-style yogurt (or thick coconut yogurt)
- 100 g granulated sugar
- 40 g cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter (block-style)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
- 1 vanilla pod (optional, but recommended)
Topping and Glaze
- 50 g apricot jam
- 3 Golden Delicious apples
Instructions
- Make the pastry: Prepare the vegan shortcrust pastry according to your recipe and par-bake it as directed in up to part 4 of your pastry instructions. Once baked, allow it to cool to room temperature before proceeding.
- Glaze the pastry base: Warm the apricot jam gently in a saucepan until spreadable. Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of apricot jam over the base and sides of the cooled pastry crust. Reserve a tablespoon of jam for later glazing. Leave the oven on at 175°C (350°F) for baking.
- Prepare the custard filling: In a high-speed blender, combine oat milk, coconut cream, vegan Greek-style yogurt, granulated sugar, cornstarch, vegan butter, and vanilla extract. If you have a vanilla pod, split it and scrape the seeds into the blender as well. Blend for about 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Slice the apples: Core and quarter the Golden Delicious apples, then slice them very thinly, ideally using a mandolin for even slices. Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern on top of the glazed and cooled pastry shell.
- Fill and bake the tart: Pour the blended custard mixture gently over the arranged apples, filling the tart crust to the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden with a slight jiggle.
- Cool and glaze the tart: Allow the tart to cool to room temperature. Then, using the reserved apricot jam, gently brush the top of the tart to create a shiny glaze. For optimal flavor and texture, chill the tart in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container inside the refrigerator. Consume within 2-3 days for best quality and freshness.
Notes
- Use a mandolin slicer if possible to achieve uniformly thin apple slices.
- For a thicker, creamier custard, opt for a vegan heavy cream alternative instead of coconut cream if preferred.
- The vanilla pod is optional but enhances the depth of flavor; vanilla bean paste is a good alternative.
- Allowing the tart to chill improves the set of the custard and melds the flavors.
- This tart is best served chilled or at room temperature.
