Jane Austen Apple Tart Recipe Inspired by Her Book “Emma”
This historic apple tart is inspired by the Regency era and Jane Austen’s novel ‘Emma’. Featuring a buttery crust and a sweet apple filling, it captures the essence of traditional tea tables from that time.
The recipe is simple to follow and perfect for serving at afternoon tea or as a dessert for any occasion. You can enhance the flavor with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, reminiscent of the period.
Classic Apple Tart Recipe

This apple tart features a flaky pastry crust filled with tender, spiced apples. The recipe takes about 1 hour from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 4 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Pastry: In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a tart pan and trim the edges.
- Assemble the Tart: Arrange the apple filling evenly over the pastry. Fold the edges of the crust over the apples, leaving the center exposed.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cook and Prep Times

- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 34g

