We’ve always been fans of simple yet elegant desserts, and our Apple Pear Galette Recipe is no exception. This rustic French-inspired treat layers fresh apples and pears into a flaky, golden crust that’s perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy night in.
It’s an easy way to showcase seasonal fruits without the fuss of a traditional pie. We’ll guide you through the steps so you can create a stunning dessert that’s as delicious as it is impressive.
Ingredients
In our Apple Pear Galette recipe, we focus on fresh, seasonal fruits and simple pantry staples to create a flaky, irresistible dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of apples and pears. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they are used, from preparing the crust to assembling the filling. This ensures a smooth process while emphasizing quality and precision for the best results.
Crust Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: We start with this as the base for our galette crust—sift it first for a lighter texture.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: Use high-quality butter; cut it into small cubes and keep it cold to achieve that flaky layers we love.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust; measure it accurately for balance.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: A key enhancer for flavor; mix it in with the dry ingredients.
- ¼ cup ice water: Added gradually to bind the dough—ensure it’s ice-cold to prevent gluten development.
Filling Ingredients
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced: These provide tartness and structure; slice them evenly for even cooking.
- 2 medium pears (such as Bosc or Anjou), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced: Ripe pears add juicy sweetness; pair them with apples for a harmonious blend of flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Squeeze this over the fruits as soon as they’re sliced to prevent browning and brighten the taste.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Sprinkled over the fruits for caramelized notes; pack it lightly for accurate measurement.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that elevates the fall vibes—sprinkle it directly onto the fruit mixture.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth; freshly grated if possible for a more aromatic profile.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Used for the egg wash to give the crust a golden sheen.
- 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar: For sprinkling on top before baking—provides a crunchy texture we adore.
This selection of ingredients ensures our Apple Pear Galette is both straightforward and delicious, making it perfect for your next gathering. Always opt for organic produce when available to enhance the fresh, vibrant flavors in this rustic treat.
Instructions
Now that we have our fresh ingredients gathered, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to craft a golden, flaky Apple Pear Galette bursting with seasonal flavors.
Prepare the Dough
First, we combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in a large bowl to form the base of our buttery crust. Next, we cut in 12 tablespoons of cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or our fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces for that perfect flaky texture. Then, we add 1/4 teaspoon of salt and gradually mix in 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together without being sticky. We shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to ensure a tender, irresistible crust that elevates our rustic dessert.
Make the Filling
We start by peeling and coring 2 medium apples and 2 medium pears, then slice them into 1/4-inch thick pieces for even cooking and a satisfying bite. In a mixing bowl, we toss the fruit slices with 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance their natural tartness, followed by 1/4 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg for a warm, aromatic blend that makes the filling irresistibly fragrant. We let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the fruits to release their juices, creating a syrupy base that promises a juicy, flavorful center in every slice.
Assemble the Galette
After chilling, we roll out our dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle, aiming for an even thickness that showcases the rustic charm of this dessert. We transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet, then arrange the fruit filling in the center, leaving a 2-inch border for folding to contain the juices and prevent overflow. Gently, we fold the edges over the filling to create a free-form shape, brush the crust with a beaten egg for a glossy finish, and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of turbinado sugar on top for added crunch and sparkle. The result is a visually stunning galette with vibrant fruits peeking through, ready for the oven.
Bake
We preheat our oven to 400°F and position the rack in the middle for even heat distribution. We place the assembled galette in the oven and bake it for 35-45 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the crust turns a deep golden brown and the fruits bubble with a sweet, caramelized aroma that fills the kitchen. Once baked, we remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes to set, allowing the flavors to intensify and the juices to thicken for a perfectly textured, mouthwatering treat.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Apple Pear Galette to life with ease and precision, we rely on a selection of essential kitchen tools and equipment. These items help us achieve that perfect flaky crust and vibrant fruit filling without unnecessary complications.
Essential Tools List
We recommend gathering the following tools before starting, as they streamline the process from dough preparation to baking:
- Mixing bowls: Use medium-sized stainless steel or glass mixing bowls for combining dough ingredients and tossing the fruit filling. Their durability ensures even mixing and prevents sticking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our galette’s success, so opt for a set of dry measuring cups and spoons to measure flour, sugar, and spices precisely.
- Pastry cutter or food processor: For cutting butter into the flour, a pastry cutter works wonders for a flaky texture, or use a food processor for quicker results if you’re short on time.
- Rolling pin: A non-stick rolling pin is ideal for rolling out the dough evenly, ensuring it fits perfectly on the baking sheet without cracks.
- Cutting board and sharp knife: Prepare the apples and pears on a sturdy cutting board with a sharp chef’s knife to slice the fruits thinly and uniformly, enhancing the galette’s rustic appeal.
- Baking sheet and parchment paper: A rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents the galette from sticking and makes cleanup effortless while promoting even baking.
- Pastry brush: Apply the egg wash smoothly with a silicone pastry brush, which helps create a golden, glossy crust without bristles shedding into your dessert.
- Oven thermometer: To guarantee the recommended baking temperature of 400°F, an oven thermometer ensures accuracy, avoiding undercooked or burnt results.
By having these tools ready, we can seamlessly transition from preparing our ingredients to assembling and baking the galette, resulting in a stunning, flavorful treat every time.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify your Apple Pear Galette preparation and fit it into your busy schedule, we recommend making certain components ahead of time. This approach allows the flavors to develop while maintaining the dessert’s flaky crust and vibrant fruit filling. Below, we’ll outline the key steps for preparing elements in advance, ensuring your galette turns out golden and irresistible every time.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We suggest starting with the dough, as it benefits from resting and chilling. Follow these steps to prepare it up to several days in advance:
- Mix and chill the dough: After combining the flour, sugar, butter, and ice water as detailed in our earlier instructions, shape the dough into a disk, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This step enhances the flaky texture we love in a galette.
- Freezing for longer storage: If you need more time, freeze the wrapped dough disk for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. This method keeps the crust tender and prevents it from becoming tough.
Prepping the Fruit Filling in Advance
The apple and pear filling can be made ahead to let the spices infuse the fruits, making assembly quicker and more efficient.
- Slice and mix the fruits: Prepare the apples and pears by slicing them thinly, then toss with lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more vibrant and aromatic filling.
- Storage tips: Store the filling in the fridge to maintain freshness, but avoid adding the egg wash or turbinado sugar until just before baking to prevent sogginess.
Assembling the Galette Ahead
For ultimate convenience, you can assemble the entire galette and bake it later, perfect for entertaining.
- Full assembly: Roll out the dough, add the fruit filling, fold the edges, and brush with egg wash as per our instructions. Place the uncooked galette on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. This keeps the structure intact while the dough stays chilled.
- Baking from the fridge: When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes to the original time if needed for a perfectly golden crust.
If you’re planning multiple batches, here’s a quick reference for make-ahead timelines:
| Component | Make-Ahead Option | Storage Method | Maximum Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dough | Refrigerate or freeze | Plastic wrap in fridge or freezer | Up to 2 days (fridge) or 3 months (freezer) |
| Fruit Filling | Refrigerate only | Airtight container in fridge | Up to 24 hours |
| Assembled Galette | Refrigerate only | Loose plastic wrap on baking sheet | Up to 8 hours |
By following these make-ahead strategies, we ensure your Apple Pear Galette remains fresh, flavorful, and easy to serve for any occasion.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Apple Pear Galette recipe with you
as it’s one of our go-to treats for effortless elegance.
It’s perfect for turning simple ingredients into a stunning dessert that impresses every time.
Give it a try and you’ll see why it’s become a favorite in our kitchen
adding a touch of rustic charm to any gathering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Apple Pear Galette?
An Apple Pear Galette is a rustic French-inspired dessert featuring fresh apples and pears layered in a flaky crust. It’s simpler than a traditional pie, making it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings, with seasonal fruits baked to perfection for a delicious, impressive treat.
What ingredients are needed for Apple Pear Galette?
You’ll need basic pantry staples for the crust: all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, salt, and ice water. For the filling, use fresh apples, pears, lemon juice, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, an egg for washing, and turbinado sugar for topping. Opt for high-quality, organic fruits to enhance flavors.
How do I prepare Apple Pear Galette?
Start by making the dough: mix flour and sugar, cut in butter, and add ice water, then chill. Prepare the filling by slicing fruits, tossing with lemon juice, brown sugar, and spices. Roll out dough, add filling, fold edges, brush with egg wash, and bake at 400°F for 35-45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
How long does it take to bake Apple Pear Galette?
Bake the galette at 400°F for 35-45 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the fruits are bubbling. Check at the 35-minute mark to avoid over-baking, ensuring a flaky texture and perfectly caramelized filling.
Can I make Apple Pear Galette ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate, or freeze for up to 3 months. The fruit filling can be mixed and chilled for up to 24 hours. You can even assemble the entire galette and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking for fresh, convenient results.
What tools are required to make Apple Pear Galette?
Gather mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a pastry cutter or food processor, rolling pin, cutting board, sharp knife, baking sheet with parchment paper, pastry brush, and an oven thermometer. These tools ensure precise measurements and easy assembly for a successful bake.