Frangipane Tart

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Frangipane Tart, a classic dessert that features a buttery almond pastry filled with a luscious almond filling and a layer of sweet raspberry jam. This tart is a perfect combination of textures and tastes, with the crispness of the pastry complementing the creamy and nutty filling. Whether enjoyed as a special treat for afternoon tea or as a show-stopping dessert, Frangipane Tart is sure to impress. Follow this recipe to create a delectable tart that will satisfy your cravings for a delicious and elegant dessert.

INGREDIENTS:

For the pastry:

• 100g/4oz caster sugar
• 50g/2oz ground almonds
• 100g/4oz plain flour
• 75g/3oz butter, cut into small dice
• 1 large egg
• 1 egg yolk
• Grated zest of 1 small lemon
• 2 teaspoons water
• Pinch of salt

For the filling:

• 50g/2oz butter
• 50g/2oz caster sugar
• 50g/2oz ground almonds
• 50g/2oz white breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 3 drops of almond essence
• 4 tablespoons raspberry jam

PREPARATIONS:

1. To make the pastry, put the caster sugar, ground almonds, and plain flour into a blender or food processor. Process at full speed for a few seconds until well combined.
2. Add the diced butter and process again until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
3. Add the large egg, egg yolk, grated lemon zest, water, and salt. Process once more until the pastry forms a ball.
4. Wrap the pastry in cling film and refrigerate for 2 hours to allow it to firm up.
5. Preheat the oven to 190°C/375°F/Gas mark 5.
6. Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface and use it to line a greased 20cm/8in loose-bottomed tart tin. Repair any breaks by pressing the pastry together with your fingers.
7. Create an even shell, ensuring there is a double thickness of pastry around the edges and that the pastry is pressed right up to the top, as it will shrink while baking. Press into the bottom edges to eliminate air between the tin and the pastry.
8. To make the filling, place the butter, caster sugar, ground almonds, and white breadcrumbs into the blender. Process briefly to mix.
9. With the blender running at full speed, add the large egg and almond essence. Continue processing until a smooth paste forms.
10. Place the prepared pastry shell on a baking tray, prick the bottom with a fork, and line it with foil. Fill with baking beans and bake blind for 10 minutes.
11. Remove the foil and beans and let it cool slightly. Spread a layer of raspberry jam over the base of the tart.
12. Cover the jam with the almond paste filling, scraping the surface smooth and level.
13. Return the tart to the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes until the filling is risen and lightly browned.
14. Serve the Frangipane Tart warm or at room temperature for a delightful dessert experience.

YIELD:

This recipe serves 10.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Be sure to chill the pastry for the recommended time to allow it to firm up and become easier to handle.
• Press the pastry into the tart tin firmly to eliminate air pockets and ensure an even shell.
• Use baking beans or pie weights during blind baking to prevent the pastry from rising or puffing up.
• Smooth the surface of the almond paste filling for an attractive presentation.
• Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving.

TIPS:

• Serve the Frangipane Tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
• Feel free to use a different flavor of jam, such as apricot or strawberry, instead of raspberry.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days. The tart can also be enjoyed cold.

In conclusion, Frangipane Tart is a delectable dessert that brings together a buttery almond pastry, a creamy almond filling, and a layer of sweet raspberry jam. This classic tart offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

To create this scrumptious Frangipane Tart, start by preparing the pastry using a blender or food processor. Chill the pastry before rolling it out and lining a tart tin. Create an even shell and bake it blind until crisp. Spread a layer of raspberry jam over the base, then cover it with a smooth and creamy almond paste filling. Bake the tart until the filling is risen and lightly browned.

Serve the Frangipane Tart warm or at room temperature, optionally accompanied by whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness. Each bite offers a perfect balance of buttery pastry, nutty filling, and fruity jam.

Try your hand at making this delightful Frangipane Tart and treat yourself to a sophisticated and flavorful dessert. Its elegant presentation and harmonious combination of flavors are sure to impress both family and guests.