Ingredients:

– 1 sheet of pre-made puff pastry (thawed)
– 3-4 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangular shape, about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Score a 1/2 inch border around the pastry, using a sharp knife (do not cut through).

4. In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Brush this mixture evenly over the entire surface of the pastry, including the border.

5. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into thin slices. Arrange the apple slices neatly, overlapping them slightly, on top of the pastry, staying within the border.

6. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.

7. While the tart is baking, prepare the salted caramel sauce. In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium-high heat, stirring constantly until the sugar has completely melted into a golden caramel color. Be cautious, as the sugar can burn quickly.

8. Once the sugar has melted, remove the saucepan from heat and carefully add the cubed butter, stirring continuously until fully incorporated.

9. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring vigorously to combine. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble and steam.

10. Stir in the sea salt, adjusting to your desired level of saltiness. Allow the sauce to cool slightly before serving.

11. Once the tart has cooled, drizzle a generous amount of the salted caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides of the tart.

12. Serve the Apple Tart with Salted Caramel Sauce warm or at room temperature. It is delightful on its own, or you can elevate it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips and Variations:

– To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans over the caramel sauce.
– For a touch of elegance, you can decorate the tart with a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprig of fresh mint.
– Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavor profiles. Combination ideas include Granny Smith with Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious with Pink Lady.

Conclusion:

Every bite of this Apple Tart with Salted Caramel Sauce is an expedition through the layers of flaky pastry, tender apples, and the enchanting sweetness of the caramel. It’s a dessert that transcends time, bringing joy to a humble gathering or grace to a regal affair. Just like the memory I forged in Paris, let this recipe create its own story in your culinary adventures.