Vanilla Custard Tart with Fresh Fruits
Ingredients:
- For the Tart Crust:
- – 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- – 100g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- – 25g (2 tbsp) granulated sugar
- – 1 egg yolk
- – 15ml (1 tbsp) ice water
- For the Vanilla Custard:
- – 500ml (2 cups) whole milk
- – 1 vanilla bean or 5ml (1 tsp) vanilla extract
- – 100g (1/2 cup) granulated sugar
- – 4 egg yolks
- – 30g (1/4 cup) cornstarch
- – 15g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter
- For Topping:
- – Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., berries, kiwi, mango), sliced as desired
- – 30ml (2 tbsp) apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
Cooking Time:
Total estimated time: 2 hours (includes chilling and baking time)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Add the chilled, diced butter, and rub it in using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to fit your tart pan. Carefully press the dough into the tart pan, trimming any excess. Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or pie weights.
Step 3: Blind Bake the Crust
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and baking beans and return to the oven for another 10 minutes, or until the crust is golden. Allow it to cool on a wire rack.
Step 4: Make the Vanilla Custard
In a saucepan, heat the milk and the split vanilla bean (if using) until just boiling. Remove from heat and let steep. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually whisk the hot milk into the egg mixture, then return the mixture to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the custard thickens. Remove from heat, remove the vanilla bean (if used), and stir in the butter and vanilla extract (if using). Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface and cool.
Step 5: Assemble the Tart
Once the crust and custard are cooled, pour the custard into the tart shell and smooth the top with a spatula. Arrange the fresh fruits beautifully over the custard in a decorative pattern.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
If desired, warm the apricot jam with a teaspoon of water in a small saucepan until smooth. Brush this glaze over the fruits for a glossy finish.
Step 7: Chill and Serve
Chill the assembled tart in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to set fully. Slice and serve your exquisite Vanilla Custard Tart with Fresh Fruits to delighted guests.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted a Vanilla Custard Tart with Fresh Fruits that’s both visually stunning and absolutely delicious. This luxurious dessert is perfect for impressing guests and celebrating special occasions. Moreover, it showcases the beauty of fresh fruits and the classic appeal of creamy custard, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. Relish in each delightful bite and take pride in your culinary masterpiece. Bon appétit!
