The moment the warm, sweet scent of an apple galette with cinnamon sugar begins to waft through my kitchen, I know it’s going to be a good day. This rustic French dessert has become a beloved staple in my household, so much so that even the mere mention of it sparks smiles and anticipatory nods of approval from family members. The galette is essentially a free-form pie, offering the delightful flavors of an apple pie with a fraction of the effort. Its simplicity in preparation, yet richness in flavor is what makes it a family favorite. The buttery, flaky crust combined with the sweet, spiced apple filling creates a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether served as an afternoon treat or the grand finale to a family dinner, this apple galette is always met with enthusiastic praise.

Ingredients

Creating an apple galette with cinnamon sugar involves a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The star of the show is, of course, the apples. I prefer to use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to strike a perfect balance in flavor. You’ll need about 3 to 4 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced. For the crust, you will need 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed. Ice water is also necessary to bring the dough together. The filling requires 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the natural flavors of the apples. A tablespoon of melted butter for brushing and a tablespoon of coarse sugar for sprinkling are optional but add a lovely finish to the galette.

Instructions

Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

While the dough chills, prepare the filling. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a separate small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture over the apples, tossing to coat evenly.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange the apple slices in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as necessary to create a rustic look.

Brush the crust with the melted butter and sprinkle the coarse sugar over the entire galette. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Allow the galette to cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts

This delightful apple galette serves approximately 6-8 people, depending on how generously you slice it. Each serving contains about 250-300 calories, making it a relatively light dessert option. The use of fresh apples provides a dose of fiber and vitamin C, while the cinnamon offers its own set of health benefits, including antioxidant properties. The butter and sugar content means it should be enjoyed in moderation, but rest assured, each bite is worth every calorie.

Preparation Time

One of the many reasons I adore making this apple galette is its reasonable preparation time. From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 1.5 to 2 hours on this dessert. This includes the time needed for the dough to chill, prepare the filling, and bake the galette to golden perfection. For an experienced baker, the process might be quicker, but even for beginners, the steps are straightforward and manageable. The time invested is rewarded with a stunning and delicious result that belies the simplicity of its preparation.

How to Serve

• Warm and A La Mode: Serve the apple galette warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its comforting flavors.
• With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, spiced apples.
• Drizzled with Caramel: For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top.
• Paired with a Hot Beverage: Enjoy a slice alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
• As a Breakfast Pastry: Leftover slices make for a delightful breakfast, especially when paired with a hot beverage.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Butter: Ensure your butter is cold when making the dough to achieve the flakiest crust possible.
2. Use a Mix of Apples: Combining different apple varieties provides a depth of flavor and texture in the filling.
3. Don’t Overfill: Keep the apple slices in a single layer for even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
4. Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a different spice profile.
5. Make Ahead: The dough can be prepared up to two days in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?

   Yes, using a store-bought crust is a convenient shortcut that won’t compromise the flavor of the galette.

2. What other fruits can I use?

   Pears, peaches, or berries can be substituted or added to the apples for a seasonal twist.

3. How do I prevent a soggy bottom?

   To avoid a soggy crust, ensure the apples are not too juicy and bake the galette on a preheated baking sheet.

4. Can I make it vegan?

   Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and ensure your crust is vegan-friendly.

5. How do I store leftovers?

   Store any leftover galette in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days.