Caramel Apple Tartlettes

This dessert is elegant and delicious.  And so easy.  That can be our secret.  Well, ours and the internet.


Caramel Apple Tartlettes

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 cup cold butter, diced
• 1 - 3 tablespoons ice water
• 1 recipe Caramel Apple Compote
• 6 slices of cheddar cheese (I used three Babybel White Cheddar rounds, cut in half)

Directions:

Make the crust for the tartlettes by putting the flour and butter in a food processor.

Process for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture resembles corn meal.

Add cold water a teaspoon at a time, pulsing after each addition, until the mixture holds together, but isn't sticky.  Pour onto a piece of plastic wrap.

Form into a ball, wrap and refrigerate for about an hour.

Roll out about 1/8 inch thick, and form six tartlette shells in a muffin tin.  Don't worry if they don't look perfect.  You only want to make sure that there are not holes in the tartlette shells.

Bake at 350 for 10 - 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

Now it is time to assemble.  Fill the tartlette shells with the compote.  Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each one, and put in the over for 1 - 2 minutes, until the cheese is softened, but not melted.

Carefully remove from the tin, and serve with a bit of compote on the side and caramel drizzled around the plate.

Voila!  Elegant dessert - made in a snap!

Cheddar cheese is a great foil for apple desserts.  It adds an unexpected depth of flavor that I think you'll love.