Rustic Fruit Tarts
Introduction
Rustic Fruit Tarts are a delightful dessert featuring a flaky pastry crust and a sweet, juicy fruit filling. This simple yet satisfying recipe offers a combination of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Rustic Fruit Tarts is a great way to enjoy seasonal fruits while impressing your family and friends. The tarts are easy to prepare, and you can experiment with different fruits based on what you have on hand. They are also versatile, perfect for casual gatherings or special celebrations.
How to Make Rustic Fruit Tarts
Ingredients:
- 9 tablespoons (128g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons (35g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon table salt
- 2 large egg yolks
- 2 1/2 cups (298g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 1/4 cup (57g) light cream or milk
- 1 cup (227g) sour cream, regular or low-fat
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons (21g) King Arthur Pie Filling Enhancer or 3 tablespoons (21g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom, optional
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest or 1/4 teaspoon lemon oil
- 3 to 4 large (454g to 567g) apples, peeled, cored and diced in 3/4" dice, or 4 to 5 large peaches or plums, peeled, pitted and diced
- 1 large egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water
- Coarse sparkling sugar, for sprinkling on top
Directions:
- To make the pastry: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat together the butter, sugar, salt, and egg yolks until light-colored and fluffy.
- Add the flour and cream, mixing until well combined.
- Divide the dough into 6 pieces, round each piece into a ball, and flatten the balls into disks. Cover them with a damp cloth or wrap with plastic wrap.
- To make the filling: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the sour cream, sugar, pie filling enhancer (or flour), cinnamon, cardamom, and lemon. Toss this mixture with the diced fruit.
- To assemble and finish the tarts: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Roll the disks of dough into 8" circles and place them on a lightly greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Spoon about 1/2 cup of the fruit filling into the center of each disk. Bring the sides of the dough up around the filling, making pleats to hold everything in place if needed.
- Brush the edges of the tarts with the egg and water mixture (egg wash) and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
- Bake the tarts for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. The filling should look cooked and bubble slightly around the edges while the pastry is lightly browned.
- Remove the tarts from the oven and serve them warm or at room temperature. For a special touch, serve them à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
How to Serve Rustic Fruit Tarts
Rustic Fruit Tarts are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They can be served as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious dessert.
How to Store Rustic Fruit Tarts
Store any leftover tarts well-wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them, but they are best served fresh.
Tips to Make Rustic Fruit Tarts
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Feel free to mix different fruits for a more complex flavor.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour during mixing.
Variation
You can change the fruit used in this recipe based on what’s in season. Try berries, cherries, or even a mix of fruits for different flavors!
FAQs
1. Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before rolling it out.
2. What can I use besides sour cream?
Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream. It will give a similar creamy texture and flavor.
3. Is it necessary to use a pie filling enhancer?
No, the pie filling enhancer is optional. If you don’t have it, you can use additional flour to help thicken the filling.
Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Rustic Fruit Tarts!
