Mary Berry Tarte Tatin Recipe

Mary Berry Tarte Tatin recipe is a delightful twist on the classic French dessert, known for its rich caramelized apples and buttery, golden pastry. Unlike a traditional pie, this upside-down tart allows the fruit to cook in a luscious caramel, creating an irresistible combination of deep, caramelized sweetness and crisp, flaky texture. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent yet remains elegantly simple.

This recipe stands out for its perfect balance of flavors—tangy apples softened by rich caramel and a light, airy pastry. Whether served as a dinner party centerpiece or a weekend treat, Tarte Tatin is both impressive and easy to make. Pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of cream for the ultimate comforting dessert.

Recipe at a Glance

Before diving into the recipe, here’s a quick look at the key details to help you plan.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Servings: 6 slices
  • Difficulty Level: Intermediate
  • Dietary Suitability: Vegetarian

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe requires just a few simple ingredients to create a deliciously caramelized tart.

For the Caramelized Apples:

  • 6 firm apples (such as Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and quartered
  • 100g granulated sugar
  • 50g unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)

For the Pastry:

  • 200g puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 egg yolk (for brushing)

Substitutes and Optional Ingredients

  • Apple Alternatives – Try using pears, peaches, or even bananas for a different flavor.
  • Spiced Variation – Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist.
  • Pastry Option – Shortcrust pastry can be used instead of puff pastry for a denser texture.

Equipment You’ll Need for Mary Berry Tarte Tatin

To make this recipe, gather the following kitchen essentials:

  • 9-inch ovenproof frying pan or tarte Tatin dish
  • Rolling pin
  • Sharp knife
  • Spatula
  • Pastry brush

How to Make Mary Berry Tarte Tatin Step-by-Step Guide

Time needed: 50 minutes

Follow these steps to create a perfect Tarte Tatin with a beautifully caramelized topping.

  1. Prepare the Caramel

    In an ovenproof frying pan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it turns a golden caramel color. Stir in the butter and lemon juice, then remove from heat.

  2. Arrange the Apples

    Place the apple quarters cut-side up in the caramel, fitting them tightly together. Cook on low heat for 5 minutes, allowing the apples to soften slightly.

  3. Preheat the Oven

    Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) while you prepare the pastry.

  4. Roll Out the Pastry

    Roll the puff pastry into a circle slightly larger than your pan. Carefully lay it over the apples, tucking the edges around them.

  5. Bake

    Brush the pastry with egg yolk and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and crisp.

  6. Invert and Serve

    Let the tart cool for 5 minutes before placing a large plate over the pan and flipping it upside down. Serve warm.Image of Mary Berry Tarte Tatin

Step-Specific Tips

  • Be careful with the caramel – It gets extremely hot, so handle with caution.
  • Tuck in the pastry edges – This helps create a neat and structured tart when flipped.

Nutrition Facts & Dietary Info

This recipe makes 6 servings, with each slice providing the following nutritional breakdown:

NutrientAmount per slice
Calories280 kcal
Carbohydrates40g
Protein2g
Fat12g
Sugar25g

This dessert contains gluten and dairy. To make it dairy-free, use a vegan puff pastry and plant-based butter.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

  • Effortlessly Elegant – This dessert looks and tastes gourmet, yet it’s simple to make.
  • Perfect Caramelization – Cooking the apples in caramel results in deep, rich flavors.
  • Great for Entertaining – Impress guests with a dessert that’s beautiful and delicious.

Pro Tips for Perfect Tarte Tatin

  • Use firm apples – Softer apples may turn mushy, so opt for Granny Smith or Braeburn.
  • Let the caramel develop – Don’t rush this step; golden caramel adds the best flavor.
  • Invert with confidence – Place a plate firmly over the pan and flip quickly to avoid spills.

Fun Variations & Ingredient Swaps

If you want to experiment, try these creative ideas:

  • Pear Tarte Tatin – Swap apples for ripe pears for a softer, juicier dessert.
  • Vanilla Bean Addition – Add vanilla bean paste to the caramel for extra depth.
  • Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the apples before baking.

Avoid These Common Mistakes

  • Overcooking the caramel – If it turns too dark, it can become bitter. Remove from heat once golden.
  • Not tucking the pastry properly – This can cause it to shrink and expose the apples.
  • Flipping too soon – Let the tart rest for 5 minutes before inverting to allow the caramel to set slightly.

How to Store & Serve Mary Berry Tarte Tatin

Storing

  • Room Temperature: Best eaten fresh but can be stored for up to 6 hours.
  • Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before serving.
  • Freezing: Not recommended as the pastry may become soggy.

Serving

  • Classic Way: Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
  • French Touch: Serve with a dollop of crème fraîche for a traditional pairing.

Related Recipe: How to make Mary Berry Apple Cake Recipe

Mary Berry Tarte Tatin FAQs

Can I make Tarte Tatin in advance?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can prepare the caramelized apples ahead of time and store them in the fridge, then add the pastry and bake just before serving.

Why is my caramel hard?

If the caramel is too thick, it may have been overcooked. Next time, remove it from heat as soon as it turns golden brown and stir in the butter quickly.

Can I use store-bought puff pastry?

Absolutely! Store-bought puff pastry works perfectly and saves time. Just ensure it’s fully thawed before using.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Tarte Tatin is a stunning dessert that combines caramelized apples with flaky, golden pastry. The rich caramel seeps into the fruit, creating a luscious texture, while the crisp pastry provides the perfect contrast. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something sweet, this easy-to-make yet sophisticated tart is guaranteed to be a hit.

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