Apricot and Almond Tart – Douceur Soleil for dessert

#### **For the Apricot Layer:**

* 6 to 8 **fresh apricots**, pitted and sliced
* 1 tablespoon **granulated sugar**
* 2 tablespoons **apricot jam** (for glazing)

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### **Step-by-Step Instructions**

#### **Step 1: Make the Tart Crust**

1. **Prepare the dough**: In a large bowl, combine the **flour** and **powdered sugar**. Add the **cubed butter** and rub it into the dry ingredients with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. **Bind the dough**: Add the **egg yolk** and 1 tablespoon of **ice-cold water**. Mix until the dough begins to come together, adding more water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed.
3. **Chill**: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least **30 minutes**. This will help the dough relax and make it easier to roll out.

#### **Step 2: Prepare the Almond Frangipane Filling**

1. **Cream the butter and sugar**: In a medium bowl, beat the **softened butter** and **sugar** together until light and fluffy.
2. **Add the dry ingredients**: Stir in the **almond meal**, **flour**, and a pinch of **salt**. Beat in the **egg**, then add the **almond extract** and mix until everything is well combined. The filling should have a smooth, creamy texture.

#### **Step 3: Assemble the Tart**

1. **Preheat your oven** to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. **Roll out the dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press it gently into the edges and trim off any excess. Prick the bottom of the tart shell with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
3. **Blind bake the crust**: Line the tart crust with parchment paper, fill it with baking weights (or dried beans), and bake it for **10-12 minutes** until lightly golden. Remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional **5-7 minutes** to set the crust completely.
4. **Spread the frangipane**: Once the tart shell is cooled, spread the **almond frangipane filling** evenly over the bottom of the tart shell.

#### **Step 4: Add the Apricots**

1. **Arrange the apricots**: Carefully place the **apricot slices** in a beautiful circular pattern on top of the frangipane, slightly overlapping them. You can get creative with your arrangement to make it look more artistic, or simply scatter them casually.
2. **Bake**: Place the tart back into the oven and bake for about **25-30 minutes** or until the almond filling is set and golden, and the apricots have softened and caramelized slightly.

#### **Step 5: Glaze the Tart**

1. **Glaze with apricot jam**: While the tart is cooling, gently heat the **apricot jam** in a small saucepan or microwave until it becomes liquid. Use a pastry brush to glaze the top of the tart with the warm jam, giving it a glossy, professional finish.
2. **Cool and serve**: Let the tart cool in the pan for a bit, then carefully remove it from the pan. You can slice it immediately or allow it to cool completely to let the flavors meld.

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### **Serving Tips**

* **With a Dollop of Cream**: Serve each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
* **Pairing with Wine**: A glass of chilled **Sauvignon Blanc** or a **Moscato** will complement the sweet, fruity flavor of the apricots perfectly.
* **Garnish**: For an extra pop of color, you can garnish the tart with a few fresh **mint leaves** or some toasted **slivered almonds**.

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### **Why You’ll Love This Tart**

* **Elegant and Flavorful**: With its golden apricots and almond filling, this tart looks and tastes like it’s straight out of a French patisserie.
* **The Ultimate Summer Dessert**: Perfect for special occasions or a sunny afternoon, the tart combines the best of fresh fruit with a luxurious, creamy filling.
* **Simple Yet Sophisticated**: While it might look fancy, the ingredients and steps are straightforward, making this dessert surprisingly easy to prepare.

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### **A Slice of Sunshine**

The **Apricot and Almond Tart – Douceur Soleil** is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of summer’s best flavors. The balance of **sweet apricots**, **nutty almonds**, and **buttery crust** will leave you and your guests reaching for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, this tart is a beautiful way to enjoy the season’s fruit in a delightful and sophisticated form.

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**Have you tried making a fruit tart before?** Or maybe you have your own favorite summer dessert? Share your thoughts and tips below! 🍑🎂 #TartTime #ApricotAlmondDelight #SummerDesserts

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I hope this captures the sunny spirit of the tart! Let me know if you’d like any tweaks or more dessert ideas!