For the Caramel:
- Preheat your oven to 100°C (210°F) and place a 22x11cm (8.6×4.3in) mould inside to warm.
- Spread a thin layer of sugar in a pan over medium heat. As it melts, add more sugar to the melted spots until all the sugar is used.
- Tilt the pan to mix the caramel without using utensils (to prevent crystallization).
- Once the caramel turns a golden amber color, carefully pour it into the warm mould, rotating to coat the base and sides. Set aside.
For the Apple Millefeuille:
- Peel and thinly slice the apples (1mm/0.03in thick) using a mandolin. Slice only half the apples initially, reserving the rest as needed.
- Mix the sugar, salt, and cornstarch in a bowl.
- Layer the apple slices in the caramel-coated mould, sprinkling the sugar mixture between each layer.
- Press down firmly every 4 layers to compact the apples.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour. Place the mould on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Once baked, let it cool slightly. Run a knife around the edges, place a serving dish on top, and flip to unmould.
For the Vanilla Custard:
- Whisk the egg yolks and cornstarch in a bowl.
- In a pot, heat the milk, vanilla, sugar, and salt until steaming.
- Gradually add a bit of the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Then, pour the egg mixture back into the pot.
- Cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously, until the custard thickens (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and transfer to a clean bowl to stop the cooking process.
Serving:
Slice the apple millefeuille and serve with a generous drizzle of vanilla custard. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!