Preheat the oven to 180°C.

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt.

Add the cold, cubed butter. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs, without any large lumps of butter.

Add the egg and mix until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water.

Press the dough into a buttered springform tin, ensuring it covers the base and sides evenly.

Sprinkle the apples with the sugar.

Melt the butter and pour it evenly over the apples.

If using, scatter the chopped almonds on top.

Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the pastry is golden.

Remove from the oven and allow the tart to cool slightly before serving.

Serve with crème fraîche.