If there’s one thing that can evoke the cozy charm of Christmas in every bite, it’s a delightful batch of Apfel Zimt Törtchen, or Apple Cinnamon Tarts. This German Christmas baking recipe combines the sweet tang of apples with the warm spice of cinnamon, all encased in a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in by the fireplace, these tarts will fill your home with the comforting aroma of the holiday season.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 4-5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Start by making the pastry. In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles fine breadcrumbs.
2. Whisk together the egg and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Pour this mixture into the flour-butter mixture and gently knead until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a muffin tin or tart pans.
4. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the apples are coated evenly.
5. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut out circles large enough to fit into the muffin tin or tart pans.
6. Gently press the dough circles into the prepared tin, making sure to line the bottom and sides evenly.
7. Fill each tart shell with the prepared apple mixture, making sure not to overfill.
8. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
9. Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the tarts with powdered sugar for a festive finish. Serve these delightful Apple Cinnamon Tarts warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the magic of the holiday season with each delicious bite!
These Apple Cinnamon Tarts are sure to become a beloved addition to your Christmas baking traditions. Share the festive joy with loved ones as you savor the flavors of the season. It’s the little moments of indulgence like these that truly make the holidays special. Happy baking and merry Christmas!
