Apple Tart Challenge results -sensation!

Okay well maybe not a sensation, but certainly a surprise. Firstly though an apology for the long silence on this blog - weather, life, more weather, more life (and some major technology melt-downs- don't get me started) have interrupted this conversation for too long. So, here it is at last (roll of drums) - my verdict on Jacques Pepin's mother's apple tart technique, which breaketh all the rules amen.

I followed the recipe and instructions to the letter for tart number 1: odd but have faith. Result - Burnt crust and under-cooked apples with burnt tops (see pics). Yikes!!

Undeterred I tried again, this time reducing the oven temperature to 350 degrees and extending the cooking time by almost 30 minutes - but keeping an eye on the tart during that time and placing a tart crust shield on the pie for the last part of the baking time. Result - OMG! buttery, melting short pastry topped with soft caramel apples.You go Jacques Pepin's Mom!