This recipe allows you to create elegant and delicious fruit tarts using classic pastry cream as the base. These tarts are simpler to make compared to many pies since each component is prepared separately and then assembled. The process involves baking the tart crust, filling it with cream, topping it with berries, optionally glazing, and serving. You have the freedom to use any berries or other soft fruit of your choice, making it a versatile and delightful dessert option.
MAKES: One 8- to 10-inch tart (about 8 servings)
TIME: About 11 1/2 hours
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 recipe Sweet Tart Crust, fitted into a tart pan and chilled
- 1 recipe Vanilla Pastry Cream, chilled
- 2 to 3 cups strawberries, hulled, lightly washed, and well dried
- 1/2 cup strained raspberry, apricot, or currant preserves (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water or liqueur (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
- After prebaking the crust and removing the weights and foil, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until it turns a beautiful shade of brown. Allow it to cool on a rack. You can start preparing the filling while the crust is baking or wait a few hours.
- Spread a layer of pastry cream on the bottom of the tart shell, using as much as needed. Arrange the strawberries, hulled side down, on top of the cream, packing them in tightly. If desired, you can glaze the tart by warming the strained preserves with water or liqueur in a small saucepan over medium-low heat until thinned. Brush the top of the strawberries with this mixture before serving.
VARIATIONS:
- Banana-Strawberry Cream Tart: Peel and thinly slice 2 or 3 bananas, toss them with lemon juice and brown sugar, then arrange them on the cooled tart shell. Top with pastry cream and strawberries.
- Mixed Fruit Tarts: Use slices of kiwi, halved red grapes, various berries, and any other ripe fruit you like to create a mixed fruit tart.
- Strawberry Tart with Citrus Curd: Substitute the pastry cream with a citrus curd (lemon, lime, or mixed citrus) using the Citrus Custard Sauce recipe and proceed with the recipe.
6 Simple Ideas for Fresh Fruit Tarts:
- Add a layer of toasted, coarsely chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, beneath the pastry cream for added texture.
- Flavor the pastry cream with ground cinnamon for a warm and aromatic twist.
- Incorporate a tablespoon of brandy, liqueur like Grand Marnier, or flavored brandy like Poire William into the pastry cream for a boozy note.
- Mix different berries or fruits together according to your preference, such as a combination of strawberries and blueberries.
- Substitute the berries with peeled, pitted, and thinly sliced peaches, nectarines, or apricots for a variation in flavor and texture.
- Top the tart with whipped cream for a creamy and luxurious finishing touch.
With these tips and variations, you can elevate your fruit tarts to new levels of flavor and creativity. Use any berries or other peeled and sliced soft fruit. Enjoy the versatility and deliciousness of these classic and simple desserts!
