This rustic Mediterranean-style apple galette celebrates the harmony of sun-kissed flavors — crisp apples, fragrant cinnamon, a hint of citrus zest, and a drizzle of golden honey, all nestled in a flaky pastry enriched with olive oil and almond flour. The galette is both simple and sophisticated, evoking the warmth of coastal Mediterranean bakeries.

Perfect for a cozy afternoon with tea or as a light dessert after a Mediterranean dinner.

🥧 Ingredients

For the olive oil crust:

  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup (50 g) almond flour (adds a Mediterranean nuttiness)
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil (use a fruity, mild one)
  • 4 tbsp (60 g) cold unsalted butter, diced
  • 4–6 tbsp ice-cold water
  • ½ tsp lemon zest

For the apple filling:

  • 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (use a crisp variety like Gala or Honeycrisp)
  • 2 tbsp honey (preferably Greek or thyme honey)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp orange zest (adds a Mediterranean citrus brightness)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening juices)

For brushing and finishing:

  • 1 egg yolk beaten with 1 tbsp milk or cream (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp coarse sugar or turbinado sugar (for sprinkling)
  • 1 tbsp sliced almonds (optional)
  • Extra honey or warm apricot jam for glazing

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the olive oil crust

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, almond flour, sugar, salt, and lemon zest.
  2. Add cold butter and olive oil, then rub them into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized bits of butter.
  3. Gradually drizzle in ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring gently until the dough comes together.
  4. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic or parchment, and refrigerate for at least 45 minutes.

2. Prepare the apple filling

  1. In a large bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice, honey, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and orange zest.
  2. Add melted butter and cornstarch, mixing until the apples are evenly coated and glistening.
  3. Let the mixture rest for about 10 minutes so the flavors blend and juices begin to release.

3. Assemble the galette

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch (30 cm) circle, about ⅛ inch thick.
  3. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  4. Arrange the apple slices in a fanned, circular pattern in the center, leaving a 2-inch border.
  5. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as you go to create a rustic edge.
  6. Brush the crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar and sliced almonds.

4. Bake

  1. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling slightly.
  2. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.

5. Glaze and serve

  1. While the galette is still warm, brush the apples with warm honey or apricot jam for a glossy finish.
  2. Cool slightly before slicing.
  3. Serve warm or at room temperature with:
    • A dollop of Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey, or
    • A scoop of vanilla or pistachio gelato.

🌺 Optional Mediterranean Twists

  • Add a few fresh rosemary leaves or thyme to the apple mixture for a herbal fragrance.
  • Sprinkle a pinch of crushed cardamom or anise seed for Eastern Mediterranean flair.
  • Replace apples with pears or figs when in season.

🍷 Pairing Suggestion

Serve this galette with a glass of Moscato d’Asti, Vin Santo, or Turkish apple tea for a truly Mediterranean dessert experience.