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Apple Pecan Tart With Vanilla Glaze
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Apple Pecan Tart With Vanilla Glaze

Recipe by lounarecipes

From the Blog Author

This Apple Pecan Tart With Vanilla Glaze is one of my favorites because it turns a simple oven visit into a cozy hug from my childhood kitchen—a place where my grandma’s apron‑scented apples and crunchy pecans always lived. Every bite feels like that comforting memory, just on an easy afternoon. What I love most is the bright, tart apple slices balanced by the buttery, lightly toasted pecans that give the crust a delightful crunch. The vanilla glaze adds a silky sweetness that invites a smooth, almost caramelized finish, while the lemon zest keeps everything bright and not overwhelming. It’s a real crowd‑pleaser that feels special yet takes only about 45 minutes from start to finish. A little tip: before adding the glaze, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the apple topping. It pulls out the fruit’s natural sweetness and lets the pecans shine even more. I’ve found this simple tweak makes the whole tart pop with flavor. If you try this, please let me know how it turns out—email me with your thoughts or share your photos. I’d love to hear what you think and how you made it your own.
Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
40 minutes
Servings
10
Difficulty
Medium

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup pecans, roughly chopped
  • 2/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon milk or cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1

Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with a removable bottom.

2

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt; cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly.

3

Add the egg yolk and water, mixing until a dough forms, then press the dough evenly into the prepared tart pan.

4

Chill the crust for 15 minutes.

5

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.

6

Arrange the apple mixture evenly over the chilled crust and sprinkle with pecans.

7

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.

8

While the tart cools, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.

9

Drizzle the glaze over the tart before serving.

Recommended Kitchen Tools

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Air Fryer Oven Large 20 QT, 10-in-1 Toaster Oven Air Fryer Combo with Window for Family, Airfryer Oven with Rotisserie, 3 Dehydrating Racks
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3
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the apple filling in my Apple Pecan Tart from becoming too watery during baking?

To prevent excess juice, ensure your 3 medium apples are sliced thinly and evenly. You can also lightly toss the apple slices with a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour before adding them to the tart shell; this will help absorb any moisture released while baking at 175°C (350°F).

Can I make the pastry dough for this Apple Pecan Tart ahead of time?

Yes, the shortcrust pastry dough, made with flour, sugar, salt, cold butter, egg yolk, and water, can be made up to 2 days in advance. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator; allow it to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before pressing it into the 9-inch tart pan.

What is the best way to store a leftover Apple Pecan Tart with Vanilla Glaze?

Once the tart has cooled completely, it should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 4 days. If you refrigerate it, let it sit out for 30 minutes before serving to allow the crust to soften slightly before drizzling with the vanilla glaze.