This Apple Tarte Tatin with Candied Walnuts is absolutely divine. Inspired by a popular salted maple apple tarte tatin recipe, this version was refined using common pantry staples and a splash of improvisation — so you can make it without a special grocery run. The result is a stunning, easy-to-make French-style upside-down apple tart that’s buttery, caramelized, and perfectly balanced with a crunchy candied walnut topping.

How to Make Apple Tarte Tatin with Candied Walnuts

This tarte tatin uses a handful of ingredients and delivers maximum flavor. It’s an ideal dessert to prepare while you’re making the rest of the meal — most of the time is hands-off baking. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for an extra layer of decadence.

Overview

• Servings: 6
• Prep time: 6 minutes
• Cook time: 47 minutes
• Total time: about 1 hour 7 minutes

Ingredients

For the Tarte Tatin

• 1 stick (8 tablespoons) salted butter
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (or 1/4 cup brown sugar)
• 4 apples, peeled and sliced (use your favorites — granny smith, red delicious, or a mix)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

For the Candied Walnuts

• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1/2 cup crushed walnuts
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or 1 tablespoon brown sugar)

Optional Toppings

• Flaky sea salt
• Vanilla ice cream
• Caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large saucepan, melt the butter with the maple syrup over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a glossy caramel.
2. Add the apple slices and cinnamon to the saucepan, tossing to coat every piece in the caramel. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring every couple of minutes, until the apples begin to soften and the caramel thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a baking dish and spread the apples into an even layer. Drape the thawed puff pastry over the apples; if it doesn’t fit perfectly, trim a few strips or patch it so the apples are fully covered. It may look uneven before flipping, but it will set up during baking.
4. Cut four small slits in the puff pastry to allow steam to escape. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed and the caramel is bubbling at the edges.
5. While the tarte bakes, make the candied walnuts: melt the tablespoon of butter with 2 tablespoons maple syrup in a small saucepan. When it boils, add the crushed walnuts and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, then spread the mixture thinly on a parchment-lined baking sheet to cool and harden for at least 15 minutes.
6. When the tarte is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the dish to loosen the tarte. Place a serving plate upside down over the dish, hold both together and flip in one confident motion. Tap the dish gently to release any apples that remain stuck, then lift the baking dish away.
7. Cut the tarte into 6 slices, top with the candied walnuts, and finish with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.

Tips & Tricks

• Use any apples you enjoy. Tart apples like granny smith balance the sweetness well, but sweeter varieties also work. A combination often yields the best texture and flavor.
• Swap the walnuts for pecans, almonds, or other nuts on hand. The candied topping adds crunch and contrast, but the tarte is delicious even without nuts.
• Leftovers keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Reheat on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 5 minutes in a 425°F oven to restore flakiness, or enjoy chilled.
• To minimize sticking when flipping, allow the tarte to rest for the full 15 minutes and be sure to loosen the edges completely with a knife before inverting.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: approximately 387 kcal. Nutrition calculations are approximate and do not include optional toppings.

Final Notes

This Apple Tarte Tatin with Candied Walnuts is quick to pull together and bakes while you finish the rest of your meal. The contrast of caramelized apples, flaky puff pastry, and crisp candied walnuts makes it a memorable dessert for family dinners or special occasions. If you try it, enjoy the moment of the big flip — it’s part of the fun!