Fruit Tart Recipe

Fruit Tart Recipe

Introduction

A Fruit Tart is a delightful dessert that combines a crisp pastry shell with a luscious custard or cream filling, topped with vibrant, fresh fruits. It’s visually stunning and incredibly delicious, offering a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply treating yourself, this fruit tart will be a showstopper!

Ingredients

For the tart crust:

• 1 1/4 cups (155g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2–3 tablespoons cold water (as needed)

For the custard filling:

• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the fruit topping:

• Fresh fruits of your choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, mango, raspberries, or peaches)
• 1/4 cup apricot jam (or fruit glaze, optional, for a glossy finish)

Instructions

1. Make the tart crust:

1. In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix.
2. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg yolk and pulse again. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the crust shell:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan (with a removable bottom).
3. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom of the dough with a fork.
4. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
5. Bake the crust for 15 minutes, remove the parchment paper and weights, and bake for another 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
6. Allow the crust to cool completely.

3. Make the custard filling:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it’s hot but not boiling.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and comes to a gentle boil (about 2–3 minutes).
5. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.
6. Transfer the custard to a bowl and cover with plastic wrap, making sure the wrap touches the surface of the custard to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.

4. Assemble the tart:

1. Once the crust has cooled and the custard is chilled, spread the custard filling evenly over the cooled tart crust.
2. Arrange the fresh fruits on top of the custard in a decorative pattern. Use any combination of fruits you like, such as sliced strawberries, kiwi, mango, blueberries, or raspberries.

5. Optional glaze:

1. If you want a glossy finish, heat the apricot jam in a small saucepan over low heat until it melts.
2. Strain the jam to remove any solids, then brush a thin layer over the fruits to give them a shiny, professional look.

6. Serve and enjoy:

• Refrigerate the assembled tart for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the custard to firm up slightly.
• Slice and enjoy this refreshing, fruity dessert!

Tips for Success

• Crust alternatives: If you’re short on time, you can use a pre-made tart shell or shortcrust pastry as a base.
• Custard variations: You can substitute the custard with a cream cheese filling, mascarpone filling, or lemon curd for a different flavor profile.
• Fruit tips: Choose fresh, ripe, and in-season fruits for the best taste and appearance.
• Serving tip: Serve the tart chilled for the best texture, and it’s perfect for warm weather gatherings.

Conclusion

This Fruit Tart is a showstopper that combines a buttery, crisp crust with a smooth and creamy filling, topped with vibrant, fresh fruits. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion and will surely impress your guests. Whether you make it for a celebration or a simple treat, it’s a dessert that’s both beautiful and delicious!

Would you like additional suggestions for variations, such as incorporating chocolate or a different filling? 😊