What if I told you there’s a French tart–simple to make, absolutely stunning, and glazed with something so unexpected and delicious that you might just stop mid-bite?
It’s the kind of dish that makes you lean in, ask questions, and start planning a dinner party just so you can serve it.
I discovered this unique tart in the Loire Valley several years ago, and couldn’t wait to recreate it at home. Before I share the recipe, I want to tell you where it came from and invite you to come experience it for yourself.
Because… April 2026 trips to Paris and the Loire Valley are officially open!
I’m so excited to officially announce two unforgettable French adventures for spring 2026: A Taste of Paris and A Taste of the Loire Valley are both open for registration!
Whether it’s your first or your fifth time in France, these experiences are thoughtfully curated to immerse you in the flavors, stories, and beauty of French life — in two completely different, equally magical settings.
This trip is ideal for anyone who’s ever dreamed of cooking in Paris, visiting world-renowned museums, or eating their way through the city like a local. This isn’t your average sightseeing tour with 2 stops a day; it’s a deep dive into the culinary and cultural soul of Paris.
You’ll cook alongside French chefs, wander beautiful markets, visit iconic landmarks and museums, and taste everything in sight — from warm baguettes to silky sauces and perfect pastries. You’ll see the Paris of postcards, but also the hidden gems that most travelers miss.
It’s hands-on, delicious, and designed to make you feel like you live there, even if just for a week.
The Loire Valley is a dreamy countryside location perfect for garden lovers, decorating enthusiasts, curious cooks, wine sippers, and history buffs, anyone who wants a deeper, slower, story-filled experience of France.
The Loire Valley is a treasure trove of beauty and inspiration — from sprawling royal châteaux to lush spring gardens and vineyards where time stands still. We’ll take part in not one but two cooking classes, including a hands-on French bread-making workshop. You’ll learn, taste, explore, and connect.
This trip is rich with detail — designed for people who want to peek behind the curtain of the French monarchy, or feel joy at the sight of climbing roses and ivy-covered stone walls. We’ll sip wine at lovely vineyards and discover so much of France.
Come for the scenery, stay for the stories, the scents, and the satisfying feeling of learning something beautiful and new.
Both trips are built with heart, intention, and tons of joy.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a friend, or meeting new ones along the way, I promise you’ll come home full — of flavor, inspiration, and memories you’ll keep forever.
Let’s go to France together. Spots are limited — join the waitlist TODAY or simply REGISTER!
While I was in the Loire Valley several years ago, there was one dish that completely captivated me.
A Vigneron in the Chinon region, with plenty of red wine on hand, created this unbelievable tart that is irresistible. I came home and recreated it, and I am so happy to share it with you today!
Tarte Vigneron
1 sheet of puff pastry
½ cup apple sauce
2-4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced very thin
½ cup sugar
2 tablespoons butter, melted
Wine Syrup
1 cup red wine, traditionally Cab Franc
¾ cup sugar
1 cinnamon stick if desired
Prepare the wine syrup by adding the red wine, sugar, and cinnamon stick to a heavy-bottomed saucepan set over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Turn the heat so the mixture simmers until it has thickened, about 25-30 minutes. Remove the cinnamon stick, and pour the syrup into a clean jar. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. To prepare the tart, preheat the oven to 350 degrees. On a lightly floured surface, roll puff pastry slightly to eliminate creases, proceed using the rectangle, or cut an 8-9-inch circle from the pastry. Place the pastry onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the surface of the pastry with the butter. Using the back of a spoon, spread a very thin layer of apple sauce on the pastry. Arrange the apples in a swirl pattern, layering as you go. Brush the apples with the remaining butter and sprinkle with sugar. Bake the tart for 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender. Brush the top of the tart generously with wine syrup.
Saturday, August 30th, 10:30-1:30 Let’s Make Pasta 4 Ways! After learning from Italian chefs, Lorie will share all the secrets to creating pasta dishes so good you will want to cry! We will start the day by creating 4 taste-tempting sauces using the best from the garden. First up, Vibrant Roasted Red Pepper Blush Sauce, so luxurious and creamy you’ll be diving back in for more, followed by a true Italian classic, Pomodoro Sauce, perfect for anytime and made in a matter of minutes. Next up, decadent and satisfying Chicken Pesto Sauce dusted with parmesan and last but certainly not least, my favorite, Roasted, Vine Ripened Tomato Sauce topped with zesty sausage, a sauce so thick and jam packed with flavor your tastebuds will sing. READ MORE and Register
Second Date Friday, October 10th, (September 5th, SOLD OUT) 10:30-2:00Artisanal European Loaves- Work with a small group of 4-5 people to uncover all the secrets of beautiful, freshly-baked Artisanal European loaves just like in the French Boulangeries. All techniques and ingredients are tailored for the American home chef with no shortcuts on flavor and quality! There is nothing like the wafting aroma of freshly baked bread coming from the oven. Imagine yourself with the mastery to produce European-style, artisan loaves quickly and with ease in your own home! You can! I’ll show you how! Your family and friends will be so impressed! Lessons on cold fermentation, autolysis, and scoring will all be taught. We will prepare bread from start to finish, and each guest will take home a 500-gram Boule or Tabatiere to be shared with their family. READ MORE and Register
Lorie Fangio is a teaching chef and the founder of A Taste of Paris culinary excursions. She shares her extensive knowledge of French food & culture through cooking classes, regular TV appearances, local publications, and speaking engagements. She is an award-winning food & lifestyle blogger with a zest for gathering people around a table.
