Delightful Apricot Tart

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, chilled and diced)
• Granulated sugar (1/4 cup)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Cold water (2-3 tablespoons)
• Apricot jam (1/3 cup)
• Almond extract (1 teaspoon)
• Fresh apricots (4-5, halved and pitted)
• Sliced almonds (1/4 cup)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, chilled butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add 2-3 tablespoons of cold water and pulse until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
3. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess for a clean edge.
6. In a small bowl, mix the apricot jam and almond extract until smooth. Spread this mixture evenly over the bottom of the tart crust.
7. Arrange the halved apricots, cut side up, over the jam mixture, spacing them evenly.
8. Sprinkle the sliced almonds generously over the apricots for added crunch and flavor.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apricots are tender.
10. Once baked, allow the tart to cool for at least 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
11. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!