1. In the bowl of a food processor fitted with a metal blade, pulse the
flour, sugar, and salt until blended. Add the butter cubes and pulse until the
mixture resembles coarse cornmeal with pieces no bigger than small peas, about
13 to 15 one-second pulses.
2. With the motor running, add the ice water all at once through the feed tube.
Process for about 10 seconds, stopping before the dough becomes a solid mass.
Turn the contents of the bowl onto a work surface, form into four equal-size
discs, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for an one hour.
3. Preheat the oven to 450°F (220°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out
each disc into a 7-inch circle and transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Spread one-quarter of the ginger mixture on each tart, then arrange
one-quarter of the slices (about half an apple) in an overlapping circular
pattern on top, leaving a
1-inch border. Sprinkle the sugar evenly on top of the apples and fold over the
borders. Most of the apples will remain uncovered. Press down the dough on the
baking sheet, snugly securing the sides and seams to prevent drips. Dot the
center of each tart with butter.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the crusts are golden and the apples have begun
to brown slightly. Cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes and serve warm with a
scoop of vanilla ice cream.