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Classic Vanilla Custard Tart
🍮 Introduction
There’s a quiet elegance in simplicity, and few desserts embody that better than a Classic Vanilla Custard Tart. With its buttery, flaky crust and silky-smooth filling, this timeless dessert has been adored for generations across many cultures. The subtle sweetness of the custard, the rich aroma of vanilla, and the hint of nutmeg on top create a balance that feels both nostalgic and luxurious.
Perfect for afternoon tea, special gatherings, or a quiet moment of indulgence, this tart brings warmth and comfort to any table. It’s the kind of dessert that speaks softly but leaves a lasting impression — refined, creamy, and irresistibly delicate.
🍽️ Ingredients
For the Crust (Shortcrust Pastry):
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1 ¼ cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
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½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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¼ cup (50 g) sugar
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1 egg yolk
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2–3 tbsp cold water
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A pinch of salt
For the Vanilla Custard Filling:
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2 cups (500 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
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4 large egg yolks
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⅓ cup (70 g) sugar
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2 tbsp cornstarch
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract (or ½ vanilla bean, seeds scraped)
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A pinch of salt
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Ground nutmeg (for garnish, optional)
🍳 Preparation
1. Prepare the Pastry Crust
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and just enough cold water to bring the dough together.
Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Roll and Bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough and fit it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork.
Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or rice. Blind-bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 10 minutes, or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.
3. Make the Vanilla Custard
In a medium saucepan, heat the milk gently over medium heat until warm (do not boil). In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until pale and smooth.
Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until it thickens into a smooth custard.
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, and let it cool slightly.
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4. Assemble the Tart
Pour the warm custard into the cooled tart shell. Smooth the top with a spatula and lightly sprinkle nutmeg over the surface for a traditional touch.
5. Bake to Perfection
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and bake the filled tart for 20–25 minutes, just until the custard is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Allow it to cool completely at room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
🌿 Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled or at room temperature, optionally with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream. This tart pairs beautifully with fresh berries, caramel drizzle, or a cup of hot coffee. Its smooth, creamy texture and delicate flavor make it perfect for both casual and elegant occasions.
✨ Conclusion
The Classic Vanilla Custard Tart is more than just dessert — it’s a celebration of simplicity and balance. The buttery crust provides the perfect foundation for the silky custard, while the hint of vanilla and nutmeg creates a comforting aroma that feels like home.
Whether you enjoy it as a refined centerpiece for a dinner party or as a quiet indulgence on a Sunday afternoon, this tart embodies the timeless beauty of classic baking — rich in tradition, texture, and taste. One slice, and you’ll be reminded why the simplest desserts often leave the most lasting memories.
