Fruit Tarts

Fruit Tarts Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Fruit tarts are a delicious and colorful dessert that are perfect for any occasion. These tarts are filled with a variety of fresh fruits and a sweet orange glaze, all nestled in a flaky pastry shell. They are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor.

History

Fruit tarts have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the recipe found in different cultures around the world. The combination of fresh fruits and a pastry crust has been a popular dessert choice for many, with each region adding its own unique twist to the recipe.

Ingredients

0.33 cup water
0.67 cup orange juice
0.13 tsp salt
2 tbsp cornstarch
0.5 cup sugar
0.5 cup sliced banana
1.5 cup sliced mangos
1 cup blueberries
1 cup raspberries
2 cup seedless grapes
2 – 3 tbsp cold water
0.33 cup + 1 tbsp shortening
0.5 tsp salt
1 cup flour

How to prepare

Mix flour and salt.
Cut in shortening.
Sprinkle with water and mix until dough comes together.
Roll into a 13" circle.
Cut into 4.5" circles.
Place over the backs of small custard cups.
Prick with a fork and place on a baking sheet.
Bake at 475°F (246°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Allow to cool before removing from cups.
Toss grapes, raspberries, blueberries, mangos, and banana with orange glaze.
Fill tart shells with the fruit mixture and refrigerate.
For the orange glaze, stir together sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
Stir in orange juice and water.
Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the mixture thickens and boils.
Boil for 1 minute.
Allow to cool.

Variations

Try using different combinations of fruits such as peaches, kiwi, or strawberries.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the fruit mixture for a warm and spicy flavor.
Experiment with different types of pastry crusts, such as a graham cracker crust or a puff pastry.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to prevent it from becoming too sticky.

- Prick the tart shells with a fork before baking to prevent them from puffing up.

- Use a variety of colorful fruits to make the tarts visually appealing.

- Allow the tarts to cool completely before filling them with the fruit mixture to prevent the pastry from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the fruit tarts with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a light and refreshing dessert.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a perfect fruit tart is to bake the pastry shell until it is golden brown and crispy. This will prevent the tart from becoming soggy when filled with the fruit mixture. Additionally, make sure to cool the tart shells completely before filling them to ensure a crisp and flaky crust.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have shortening on hand, you can use butter or margarine as a substitute. You can also use a pre-made pie crust instead of making your own pastry dough.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the pastry dough and orange glaze ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the tarts. The fruit mixture can also be prepared in advance and refrigerated until serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the fruit tarts on a platter and garnish with fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation. You can also dust the tarts with powdered sugar for an added touch of sweetness.

Pairing Recommendations

Fruit tarts pair well with a glass of sparkling wine or a cup of hot tea. They are also delicious when served alongside a cheese platter for a sweet and savory combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover fruit tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fruit tart contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fruit tart contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of fruit tart contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of fruit tart contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fruit tarts are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C from the fruits used in the recipe. The fruits also provide a good source of dietary fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the flour used in the pastry crust. It may also contain allergens from the fruits used, such as bananas and berries.

Summary

Fruit tarts are a delicious dessert option that provides a good source of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. However, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their calorie content.

Summary

Fruit tarts are a delightful dessert that is both visually stunning and delicious. With a flaky pastry crust, a sweet orange glaze, and a colorful assortment of fresh fruits, these tarts are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy them as a light and refreshing treat any time of the year.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, much like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria. Maria was a talented baker and always had the most delicious treats waiting for me whenever I came over. On this particular day, she had made the most beautiful fruit tarts I had ever seen.

I watched in awe as she carefully rolled out the dough, filled each tart shell with a mixture of fresh fruits, and baked them to golden perfection. The aroma that filled her kitchen was simply heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste one of those delectable tarts.

As I savored the first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. Maria, being the generous soul that she was, offered to teach me her recipe. She handed me a worn, stained index card with the ingredients and instructions written in her elegant cursive handwriting.

I treasured that index card like it was a precious family heirloom. I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own collection, one that I would pass down to future generations.

Over the years, I perfected Maria's fruit tart recipe, adding my own little twists and variations to make it truly my own. I experimented with different combinations of fruits, tried out various crusts, and even added a touch of almond extract to the filling for extra flavor.

Each time I made these fruit tarts, I couldn't help but think of Maria and the day she shared her recipe with me. Her generosity and love for baking had inspired me to become the cook I am today.

As I grew older, I continued to collect recipes from friends, family, and even strangers I met along the way. Each recipe told a story, a memory that I could recreate in my own kitchen. From savory soups to decadent desserts, my recipe box overflowed with treasures waiting to be shared with those I loved.

But it was always Maria's fruit tarts that held a special place in my heart. They were a reminder of friendship, of shared moments in the kitchen, and of the joy that comes from creating something delicious with your own two hands.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of baking, I can't help but feel grateful for all the recipes that have come into my life. Each one is a gift, a connection to the past, and a promise of delicious meals to come.

And as I pull a tray of freshly baked fruit tarts out of the oven, I know that I am carrying on a tradition that began with Maria and will continue for generations to come. The recipe for these fruit tarts may have started with her, but it will live on in my family for years to come, bringing smiles to faces and joy to hearts with each and every bite.