Fruit tarts are one of the simplest and most elegant desserts that can be made. They can be filled with any variety of fruit and are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are celebrating a special event or just want to enjoy a sweet treat, fruit tarts are an excellent choice.
Ingredients
To make fruit tarts, you will need the following ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces - 1 egg yolk - 1 tablespoon heavy cream - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract - Assorted fresh fruit, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, and/or mango - 1/2 cup apricot jam - 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract, and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour.
Step 2: Roll out the Dough
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Using a cookie cutter or a small bowl, cut out circles of dough that will fit into your tart pans. Line each tart pan with the dough and press it into the bottom and sides of the pan.
Step 3: Blind Bake the Tart Shells
To prevent the tart shells from puffing up, you will need to blind bake them. Line each tart shell with a piece of parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake the tart shells for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes or until the bottom of the tart shells are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Fruit
Wash and dry the fruit. Cut the larger fruits, such as kiwi and mango, into small pieces. Arrange the fruit in the cooled tart shells, filling them about 2/3 full.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine the apricot jam and water. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the jam has melted and the mixture is smooth.
Step 6: Glaze the Tarts
Using a pastry brush, brush the glaze over the fruit in each tart shell. Chill the tarts in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the glaze to set.
Nutrition
Each fruit tart contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the size of the tart and the amount of fruit used. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C and fiber. The apricot glaze adds a small amount of sugar and calories, but it is a natural sweetener that is much healthier than refined sugar.
Conclusion
Fruit tarts are a delicious and healthy dessert that can be enjoyed any time of year. With a little bit of preparation and some fresh fruit, you can create a beautiful and impressive dessert that will impress your guests or satisfy your sweet tooth. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out!