This traditional Romanian Upside-Down Apricot Tart (Tartă cu Caise) is a nostalgic, summer-inspired dessert featuring caramelized apricots and fluffy vanilla cake. Perfectly golden and bursting with fruity flavor, it's easy to make and ideal for gatherings, picnics, or a sweet taste of childhood memories. 🍑✨
Ingredients
For the Caramelized Apricot Layer:
- 400 g fresh apricots, halved or sliced
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
For the Cake Batter:
- 2 eggs, separated
- 100 g sugar
- 100 g melted butter (or plant-based)
- 125 ml milk (or lactose-free milk)
- 200 g all-purpose flour
- 10 g baking powder (approx. 2 tsp)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Slice the apricots and set aside.
- In an ovenproof tray or pot, mix 3 tbsp sugar with the vanilla sugar and spread evenly on the bottom.
- Arrange the apricots cut side down on the sugar.
- Place the tray over medium heat to melt the sugar and caramelize the fruit (about 5–7 minutes), then remove from heat.
- Separate the egg yolks and whites.
- Beat the yolks with 100g sugar and a pinch of salt until creamy.
- Add melted (not hot) butter, milk, and vanilla extract to the yolks and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour with baking powder, then add to the wet mixture to create a smooth batter.
- Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold them into the batter.
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- Pour the batter over the caramelized apricots.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the tart cool for 10 minutes, then place a plate over the tray and flip it to release the tart.
- Let it cool completely before serving. Optional: dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
A Sweet Taste of Romanian Summer 🍑☀️
There’s something magical about Romanian summers — and nothing captures that magic quite like the sight of golden apricots hanging heavy on the trees or stacked in vibrant market stalls. For many Romanians, this fruit is the very essence of childhood, sunshine, and cherished family traditions.
This Romanian Upside-Down Apricot Tart (Tartă cu Caise) is a beloved dessert that brings those memories to life in the most delicious way. Moist, fluffy cake meets sweet-tart caramelized apricots in a showstopping upside-down presentation. It’s simple to make, stunning to serve, and absolutely irresistible. 😍
Let’s dive into this comforting and nostalgic recipe that’s sure to become a summertime favorite in your home too.
