Red, White and Blue Tarts

Red, White and Blue Tarts Recipe - A Perfect July 4th Dessert from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 40 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Red, White and Blue Tarts are a delicious and patriotic dessert perfect for any summer celebration. These tarts feature a creamy custard filling topped with fresh raspberries and a sweet currant jelly glaze.

History

This recipe is a modern twist on classic fruit tarts, with the addition of a red, white, and blue color scheme to make them perfect for holidays like the Fourth of July or Memorial Day.

Ingredients

12 baked tart shells
0.25 cup sugar
2 tbsp cornstarch
0.25 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
0.5 cup heavy or whipping cream, whipped

garnish

whole or sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries
1 cup currant jelly
1 tbsp water

How to prepare

In a 2 qt (1.89 liter) saucepan, combine the sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Stir in the milk until smooth.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 1 minute.
In a 1 cup measure, lightly beat the eggs with a fork. Slowly stir in a small amount of the hot sauce.
Slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan, stirring rapidly to prevent lumps from forming.
Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens, but be careful not to let it boil. Cover the saucepan with waxed paper and refrigerate.
Once the custard has cooled (approximately 40 minutes), stir in the vanilla extract. Using a wire whisk, gently fold in the whipped cream.
Spoon the custard into the pastry shells and top with fruit.
In a 1 qt (946 ml) saucepan, melt the jelly with water. Allow it to cool slightly, then spoon it over the fruit. Refrigerate until the jelly sets.

Variations

Try using different fruits such as blueberries or sliced strawberries for a different color combination.
Experiment with different flavored jellies or preserves for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the custard over medium heat and stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

- Refrigerate the custard before adding the whipped cream to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor and presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tarts chilled for a refreshing summer treat. They pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the custard over medium heat to prevent scorching.

- Refrigerate the tarts after assembling to allow the jelly glaze to set.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use a pre-made tart shell or pie crust for a shortcut.

- Substitute almond extract for the vanilla for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

These tarts can be made up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the tarts on a platter in a flag pattern for a festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve these tarts with a glass of sparkling wine or lemonade for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover tarts in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Do not freeze as the custard may become watery when thawed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 200 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 10g per serving

Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 2g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 8% DV

Calcium: 6% DV

Alergens

Contains: Eggs, Milk

Summary

These Red, White and Blue Tarts are a delicious dessert option, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats. They also provide a small amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Red, White and Blue Tarts are a delicious and festive dessert option perfect for summer celebrations. With a creamy custard filling and fresh fruit topping, these tarts are sure to be a hit with your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Red, White and Blue Tarts. It was a warm summer day, just like today, and I was visiting my dear friend Mary at her quaint little farmhouse in the countryside. Mary was an incredible cook and always had the most delicious treats waiting for me whenever I came to visit.

On that particular day, she had prepared a beautiful spread of desserts for us to enjoy. There were fruit tarts, cakes, and cookies, all made with love and care. But it was the Red, White and Blue Tarts that caught my eye. They were small, bite-sized tarts filled with a creamy custard and topped with fresh berries in patriotic colors. They looked absolutely stunning, and I couldn't wait to try them.

I asked Mary where she had learned to make such a beautiful and delicious dessert, and she told me that she had come across the recipe in an old cookbook that had been passed down through her family for generations. She said that the recipe was originally created by her great-grandmother, who had made them for a Fourth of July celebration many years ago.

Mary graciously shared the recipe with me, and I knew that I had to make them for my own family. I carefully wrote down the ingredients and instructions, making sure to capture every detail so that I could recreate the tarts perfectly. As I made my way back home, I couldn't wait to get started on baking these delightful treats.

When I arrived home, I immediately set to work in the kitchen. I gathered all the ingredients I would need and began following the recipe step by step. The tart dough came together beautifully, and as I rolled it out and cut it into small circles, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride at how well I was able to execute the instructions.

Next, I prepared the creamy custard filling, carefully whisking together the eggs, sugar, and vanilla until it was smooth and velvety. I poured the custard into the tart shells and popped them into the oven to bake. As they baked, the kitchen filled with the most wonderful aroma, and I knew that they were going to be a hit with my family.

Once the tarts had cooled, I topped them with fresh blueberries, raspberries, and whipped cream, creating a beautiful red, white, and blue presentation. They looked just as lovely as the ones Mary had made, and I couldn't wait to share them with my loved ones.

When my family tried the tarts, they were absolutely blown away by how delicious they were. The creamy custard paired perfectly with the sweet and tangy berries, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that was simply irresistible. They all agreed that this recipe was a keeper, and I knew that it would become a staple in our household for years to come.

As I savored my own Red, White and Blue Tart, I couldn't help but think about the wonderful memories that this recipe held. It was a reminder of the bond between friends, the joy of sharing delicious food with loved ones, and the beauty of tradition passed down through generations. I felt grateful to have learned this recipe from Mary and to have the opportunity to create new memories with my own family.

And so, every summer, I continue to make these Red, White and Blue Tarts, honoring the legacy of Mary's great-grandmother and sharing the love and joy that this recipe brings. It has become a beloved tradition in our family, and I am grateful for the day that I first laid eyes on this delightful dessert.