Introduction

An Apple Galette with Flaky Crust is a rustic, free-form tart that combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery, flaky pastry. Unlike traditional pies, galettes are simple, yet elegant, with the edges of the dough folded over the fruit filling for a charming, imperfect look that’s perfect for casual or formal occasions alike.

The filling bursts with autumnal flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of sugar, while the pastry provides a crisp, golden frame. This dessert is incredibly satisfying to make and even more delightful to serve, as it requires minimal fuss but delivers maximum flavor. Whether for a holiday gathering, weekend treat, or brunch centerpiece, this galette is sure to impress.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines simplicity with sophistication. The buttery, flaky crust contrasts beautifully with tender, sweet-tart apples, and the natural caramelization of the fruit enhances its flavor. Making a galette feels approachable, yet the result looks bakery-level impressive without needing advanced skills. Plus, it fills the kitchen with warm, comforting aromas of fall — pure bliss!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Rustic Elegance: Free-form crust makes it simple yet visually stunning.
• Flavorful Fall Dessert: Apples and warming spices are perfect for autumn.
• Simple to Make: Less fuss than a traditional pie but equally satisfying.
• Versatile: Serve warm, at room temperature, or with ice cream.
• Natural Sweetness: Apples caramelize naturally, no need for heavy syrups.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 25 minutes
• Baking Time: 40–45 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20–25 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 6–8 slices
• Calories: Approximately 320–350 kcal per serving

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert / Snack / Brunch Treat
• Cuisine: French-Inspired / American

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 3–4 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 3–4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken juices)

Optional Toppings:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar for sprinkling
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Prepare the flaky pastry dough.
2. Toss apples with sugar, spices, and thickener.
3. Roll out dough, arrange apples, fold edges to form galette.
4. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle sugar.
5. Bake until crust is golden and apples are tender.
6. Cool slightly and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, until dough comes together.
4. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a medium bowl, toss apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and flour. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough into a 12-inch circle about ⅛-inch thick.
2. Transfer dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Assemble the Galette

1. Arrange apple slices in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border.
2. Fold the edges over the apples, pleating gently to create rustic folds.
3. Brush the dough edges with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake galette for 40–45 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
3. Remove from oven and let cool slightly on the baking sheet.

Step 6: Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Optionally, top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
• Slice carefully with a sharp knife or pie server.

Recipe Tips

• Use a Mix of Apples: Tart and sweet apples together give balanced flavor.
• Keep Butter Cold: Ensures a flaky crust.
• Add Lemon Juice: Prevents apples from browning and enhances flavor.
• Chill Dough: Makes rolling easier and helps maintain flakiness.
• Serve Soon After Baking: Crust is crispest when freshly baked.

Variations

• Pear & Apple Galette: Substitute half the apples with thinly sliced pears.
• Caramel Apple Galette: Drizzle caramel sauce over baked galette for extra sweetness.
• Nutty Galette: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts over the apple filling before folding dough.
• Chocolate-Apple Galette: Add a few dark chocolate chunks between apple slices for a decadent twist.
• Spiced Galette: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for deeper autumn flavor.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep covered for up to 4 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap unbaked galette in plastic and foil; freeze for up to 1 month. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to baking time.

Special Equipment Needed

• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheet
• Pastry cutter or food processor (for dough)
• Medium mixing bowl
• Knife or mandoline (for slicing apples)

FAQ

Q1: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, dough can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

Q2: Can I use frozen apples?
Fresh apples are preferred. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid to prevent soggy crust.

Q3: Can I make mini galettes?
Yes, divide dough and filling to create individual servings; adjust baking time to 20–25 minutes.

Q4: Can I skip the egg wash?
Yes, but the crust won’t be as golden and glossy.

Conclusion

Apple Galette with Flaky Crust is a rustic, elegant dessert that captures the essence of fall. With tender, spiced apples encased in a buttery, flaky crust, it’s both simple to make and impressive to serve. Perfect for brunch, dinner parties, or holiday gatherings, this galette offers comfort, flavor, and a touch of sophistication in every slice. Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, and enjoy the cozy aromas of autumn in every bite.