A Good Weekend

Yesterday was an absolutely beautiful Saturday. The weather was still cool, but it was sunny and very spring-like. I was even able to crack a couple of windows and let the house air out a little. As you can see, the dogs were enjoying it too.  Today, on the other hand, we woke up to a wintery chill and a dusting of snow.  The snow melted quickly, but the wind has been bitterly cold all day.

I took advantage of my day off yesterday to make one of my favorite desserts, an apple tart.  It's pretty easy to make and is delicious.  Other dried fruits could be substituted for the cranberries. 

Apple-Cranberry Tart

1 2/3 c. flour
2/3 c. sugar
pinch salt
1/2 c. butter (cold)
1 egg
1/2 t. vanilla
(possibly some milk or cream to help the mix come together)
----
3/4 to 1 c. sugar (more or less to taste)
1/3 cornstarch
3/4 c. sweetened dried cranberries, soaked in water or juice to plump them
3 c. apple, peeled and cubed (1/2")

You can make the crust mixture in the food processor using the blade, or by hand. Mix the flour, sugar and salt together; cut the butter into this mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg and vanilla, mix until it forms a ball. If it’s not forming a ball, add a little milk or cream to help it come together. Pat into greased tart pan and up sides. Mine measures 11” in diameter.
----
Mix sugar and cornstarch together. Then add apple cubes and drained cranberries and mix to coat. Spread evenly into tart pan. Bake at 400* for about 45 minutes, or until crust is golden and fruit juices have thickened. It’s great with some jam brushed over it as a glaze.

Bon appetit!