How to Make a Classic Apple Galette with a Flaky Crust

How to Make a Classic Apple Galette with a Flaky Crust

A classic apple galette is a rustic, free-form tart with a golden, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling. Unlike traditional pies, a galette is simpler to prepare, making it an ideal dessert for both beginners and experienced bakers. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious homemade apple galette with a buttery, flaky crust.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3–4 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji)
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For Assembly and Topping:

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar (optional)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

Step 1: Prepare the Flaky Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
3. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to come together. Do not overwork the dough.
4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days).

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
2. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
3. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the apples to release their juices.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle, about ⅛-inch thick.
3. Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Galette

1. Arrange the apple slices in the center of the dough, slightly overlapping them and leaving about a 2-inch border around the edges.
2. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as you go, to create a rustic, free-form crust.
3. Brush the crust with an egg wash (whisked egg and milk) to achieve a golden brown finish.
4. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the crust for extra crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Galette

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
2. Remove from the oven and brush the apples with melted butter for a glossy finish.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Let the galette cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Enjoy this simple yet elegant apple galette, perfect for any occasion!