Apple-Cherry Tartlets

Apple-Cherry Tartlets: A Taste of Autumn

As the leaves begin to change and a crispness fills the air, my thoughts turn to the comforting flavors of autumn. This year, I've been experimenting with a new take on a classic – apple and cherry tartlets. These aren't your grandmother's mince pies; they're a modern twist on a timeless treat, combining the sweetness of apples and cherries with warm spices that evoke the cozy atmosphere of fall.

The beauty of these tartlets lies in their simplicity. The filling is a delightful blend of tart cherries and sweet apples, infused with the warm embrace of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. A hint of coriander adds a unique depth, while a touch of orange juice and lemon zest provide a refreshing brightness that cuts through the richness of the fruit. The delicate phyllo pastry shell provides a wonderfully crisp contrast to the soft, spiced filling. Each bite is a miniature explosion of autumnal flavor, perfect for an afternoon tea or a delightful dessert after a hearty fall meal.

Making these tartlets is a surprisingly straightforward process, even for a busy schedule. I find the prep work quite relaxing. The rhythmic brushing of melted butter onto the phyllo sheets, the careful folding and shaping of the pastry shells – it’s a meditative process that allows me to disconnect from the daily grind. The aroma of warm spices and baking phyllo that fills the kitchen as they bake is utterly intoxicating. It's the kind of baking experience that truly nourishes the soul, and the results are undeniably delicious.

The tartlets themselves are incredibly versatile. I love serving them slightly warm, allowing the filling’s warm spices to mingle with the crisp pastry, creating a harmonious balance of textures and temperatures. They are equally delightful served at room temperature. The flavor profile is so rich and complex; they are equally delicious for a quiet afternoon alone or shared with loved ones during a family gathering. These are perfect for potlucks and gatherings, especially during this harvest season. They are as beautiful as they are delicious!

Beyond the taste, these tartlets bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. The rustic, irregular shapes of the phyllo shells add a charming, homemade touch, making them perfect for both casual and more formal settings. And they are fantastic for meal prep, which helps busy people who might find themselves short on time.

I have always loved this time of year, with its beautiful colors, the cool air, and the scents of baking spices. These apple-cherry tartlets perfectly capture the essence of autumn, making them a true celebration of the season. The recipe is relatively easy to follow, and even if you are a new baker, you will enjoy this delicious treat. If you would like some extra ideas, you can adjust the ingredients, adding different spices, fruits or other additions to taste. Your culinary creativity is the only limit when you start preparing this delicious recipe.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the warm, comforting aromas of autumn fill your kitchen. These apple-cherry tartlets are more than just a dessert; they're an experience, a taste of autumn that will warm your heart and soul. The memories of baking and the pleasure of sharing these delicious tartlets with those you love, will become a treasure of warmth and appreciation for you.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these tartlets are sure to become a cherished part of your autumn baking repertoire. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brandy
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 cup dried tart cherries
• pinch of coarse kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon peel
• 1/2 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-step

• Combine apples and next 11 ingredients in heavy large saucepan.
• Cook over medium heat until apples are tender, stirring frequently, 30 to 35 minutes.
• Add brandy and simmer until brandy is absorbed and apples are very tender, about 7 minutes longer.
• Cool apple mixture completely.
• DO AHEAD: Filling can be made 2 days ahead. Cover and chill.
• Line 2 large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners.
• Place phyllo stack on work surface; cover with plastic wrap, then damp kitchen towel.
• Remove 1 phyllo sheet from stack and place on work surface; brush lightly with some of melted butter.
• Top with second phyllo sheet; brush lightly with melted butter.
• Fold phyllo in half, forming 9x7-inch rectangle.
• Brush lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons brown sugar; using fingers, distribute sugar evenly over phyllo.
• Fold phyllo in half again, forming 7 x 4 1/2-inch rectangle.
• Brush with butter and transfer phyllo rectangle to 1 prepared baking sheet.
• Using fingers, gently push in corners of phyllo pastry and fold up sides of crust, creating rustic irregular pastry shell with 2 3/4- to 3-inch plain center and 1/2-inch-high sides.
• Brush pastry shell lightly with melted butter.
• Repeat procedure with remaining phyllo sheets, melted butter, and brown sugar, placing 4 phyllo pastry shells on each prepared baking sheet, spacing apart.
• DO AHEAD: Phyllo pastry shells can be made 1 day ahead. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
• Position rack in center of oven and preheat to 375°F.
• Divide apple filling among phyllo pastry shells (about 1/3 to scant 1/2 cup for each).
• Brush filling lightly with melted butter.
• Sprinkle 1 teaspoon brown sugar over apple filling on each.
• Bake until phyllo is golden brown, 20 to 22 minutes.
• Cool tartlets on baking sheets on racks until just warm, about 20 minutes.
• Serve slightly warm or at room temperature.