This Salted Honey Pistachio Fig Tarte Tatin is a sweet and nutty dessert like no other. With juicy figs, crunchy pistachios, and a drizzle of honey, it’s both delicious and beautiful!
Baking this tart fills my kitchen with the most amazing smells. I love serving it warm—it’s a real crowd-pleaser and perfect for impressing friends at dinner parties!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Figs: Fresh ripe figs are essential for this dessert. If figs aren’t in season or available, try substituting them with pears or apples. Both will provide sweetness and hold their shape well during baking.
Puff Pastry: Puff pastry gives this tart its lovely, flaky texture. If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free puff pastry or use a pre-made shortcrust pastry as an alternative, though it will be denser.
Honey: The honey adds sweetness and depth. You can use maple syrup or agave nectar if you prefer a different flavor profile or if you need a vegan option.
Pistachios: Shelled pistachios add crunch and flavor. Walnuts or almonds can be substituted if you’re allergic to nuts or can’t find pistachios.
How Do I Get the Perfect Caramel in My Tarte Tatin?
The secret to a great caramel is to keep a close eye on the heat. Start by melting the butter over medium heat. Then add the honey and lemon juice to create a luscious sauce. Watch for bubbling—this means it’s cooking properly!
- Cook until the mixture is just starting to caramelize (2-3 minutes) to prevent burning.
- Gently arrange fruit in the skillet, as the figs will absorb that caramel goodness while baking.
- Inversion is key—allow a few minutes to cool before flipping it onto your serving plate. This helps the caramel set slightly.
With these tips, you’ll have a stunning tart that impresses everyone at your table!
Salted Honey Pistachio Fig Tarte Tatin
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tart:
- 8-10 fresh ripe figs, halved
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (about 8 oz / 225g), thawed if frozen
- 1/2 cup (120 ml) honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (such as Maldon)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- Extra pistachios and a drizzle of honey for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, making a total time of about 45-50 minutes. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this impressive tart comes together!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to crisp the pastry perfectly!
2. Prepare the Caramel:
In a 9-inch oven-safe skillet or tarte tatin pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the honey and lemon juice, stirring gently. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and starts to caramelize slightly. The aroma is going to be fantastic!
3. Arrange the Figs:
Carefully place the halved figs cut-side down in the skillet over the honey butter mixture. Pack them snugly—as they cook, they will reduce slightly in size and we want a full, delicious tart!
4. Add Pistachios and Season:
Sprinkle the roughly chopped pistachios evenly over the figs. Add the flaky sea salt and a touch of ground cinnamon if you’d like that extra warmth and flavor.
5. Cover with Puff Pastry:
Unfold the puff pastry sheet and lay it over the figs. Tuck the edges down around the fruit inside the skillet, making sure it’s nicely covered. This will create a lovely golden layer when baked.
6. Bake the Tart:
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it: the pastry should be golden brown and crisp. The sweet fig and honey aroma will fill your kitchen!
7. Cool and Unmold:
When the tart is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. To unmold, carefully place a serving plate over the skillet. Invert quickly but gently. The figs and caramel sauce should now be beautifully displayed on top!
8. Add the Finishing Touches:
Drizzle some extra honey over the top and sprinkle additional chopped pistachios for a lovely garnish. It adds color and a tempting crunch!
9. Serve Warm:
This tart tastes divine warm! Serve it as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
Enjoy the delightful combination of salted honey, figs, and pistachios in this gorgeous dessert!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Figs Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen figs if fresh ones aren’t available! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using. This prevents the tart from becoming soggy during baking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave for convenience.
Can I Make This Tarte Tatin Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the caramel and arrange the figs in advance, then cover and refrigerate. Just add the puff pastry right before baking to ensure it stays crisp. Bake it on the day you plan to serve for the best results!
What Can I Substitute for Puff Pastry?
If you can’t find puff pastry, you can use a pre-made shortcrust pastry for a different texture. Alternatively, a blend of oat or almond crust could work as a gluten-free option, but the consistency will vary. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may change!