What is a common ingredient in a "tarte Tatin"?

A "tarte Tatin" is a classic French dessert known for its unique upside-down cooking method, where fruits are caramelized in butter and sugar before being topped with pastry and baked. The signature ingredient used in a traditional tarte Tatin is apples. The tart relies on the balance of the sweet and tart flavors of apples, which complement the buttery crust and caramelized topping beautifully. The choice of apples is critical as their texture and sweetness contribute to the overall success of the dish.

While cherries, pears, and plums can all make delicious desserts, they do not serve as the traditional fruit base for a tarte Tatin. This specific treatment with apples is what distinguishes it from other fruit tarts, as apples hold their shape well during cooking, ensuring a pleasing texture and flavor balance that is characteristic of this beloved French dish.