Fruit tarts are a classic dessert that showcase the beauty and natural sweetness of fresh fruit. Perfect for summer gatherings or dinner parties, these tarts are as visually appealing as they are delicious. This article will share the best fruit tart recipe that’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

1. Sweet Tart Crust:

– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup powdered sugar

– 1/4 tsp salt

– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

– 1 large egg yolk

2. Pastry Cream Filling:

– 2 cups whole milk

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 cup cornstarch

– 1/4 tsp salt

– 2 large eggs

– 2 tsp pure vanilla extract

– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

3. Toppings:

– Assorted fresh fruit (such as berries, kiwi, peach, and/or mango)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Tart Crust

1. In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse to mix well.

2. Add cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add in egg yolk and pulse until the dough comes together.

4. On a floured surface, shape dough into a flat disc and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step 2: Pre-bake the Tart Crust

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).

2. Roll out chilled dough on a floured surface to fit an 11-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.

3. Press dough into the tart pan and trim any excess dough from the edges.

4. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up as it bakes.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown. Cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Pastry Cream Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam.

2. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, salt, and eggs until smooth and well combined.

3. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs.

4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat until it thickens and comes to a boil, stirring constantly.

5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter until fully incorporated.

6. Place plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the pastry cream to prevent skin formation, then refrigerate until cooled completely.

Step 4: Assemble the Fruit Tart

1. Once both tart crust and pastry cream have fully cooled, spread an even layer of cream into the crust base.

2. Arrange fresh fruit on top of pastry cream in a decorative manner.

3. Optionally, you can glaze your fruit with a mixture of apricot jam and warm water for added shine or add fresh mint leaves for garnish.

Your beautifully crafted fruit tart is now ready to be served! Enjoy this delectable dessert and wow your guests with your culinary skills!