Autumn is a Magnificent Season: Apple and Maple Tart

Simple yet sophisticated, this flaky apple tart will delight all your guests.

Ingredients (Servings: 6)

• 1 package of store-bought puff pastry

• 1/3 cup walnuts, coarsely chopped

• 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 red apples

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon water

• A few sprigs of fresh thyme

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the puff pastry onto the baking sheet and let it come to room temperature.

In a small bowl, mix the walnuts and maple syrup. Set aside.

In another small bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla and cinnamon. Spread half of this mixture in the centre of the pastry, leaving a two-centimetre border all around.

Cut the apples into thin slices. Arrange the slices in slightly overlapping rows over the brown sugar mixture. Brush the remaining brown sugar mixture onto the apple slices. Fold the edges of the pastry slightly inward.

Whisk the egg with the water and brush the edges of the pastry with it. Sprinkle the sweetened walnuts over the apples.

Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown and crisp. Let cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Garnish with a few fresh thyme leaves just before serving.