Picture this: wild strawberries, so ripe and sweet that their fragrance perfumes the air, nestled in a tender, flaky crust. These little jewels are the stars of our story today, as we embark on crafting not just any dessert, but a Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts – each as delightful and essential as the last.
I find myself drawn to this recipe not only for the joy of eating it but for the experience of making it. There’s something incredibly grounding about working with your hands, about being so intimately involved in the alchemy of good food. As we delve into the creation of our Fresh Fruit Tart, it’s my hope that you’ll find the same pleasure in the process as I do—that it will bring a touch of sweetness not only to your table but to your day.
So, tie on your apron, preheat your oven, and let’s begin our culinary adventure together, savoring each moment from the first sift of flour to the last slice served.
Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts
Equipment
- oven
- 1 large pot
- 1 tart pan
- 1 separate medium bowl
- 1 small bowl
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 large paper plate
- 1 plastic zipper bag
- 1 hand mixer
Ingredients
Pastry Cream (adapted from a recipe by Chef Chad Pagano)
- 2 cups milk
- 2/3 cups sugar
- 2 Egg yolks
- 1 Whole egg
- 3 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1/4 stick butter or 2 Tbsp
- 1 tablespoon Grand Marnier™ or any other tasty liqueur
Crust (makes 3)
- 3 sticks unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup ground pecans
- 1 1/2 cup confectioners sugar sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 Large eggs beaten
- 3 to 4 cups all purpose flour sifted
Baking & Assembly
- 50 g dark chocolate 100g for a thicker layer
- 2 tablespoons Apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons Warm water
Instructions
Pastry Cream (adapted from a recipe by Chef Chad Pagano)
- In a large pot over low heat, dissolve the first 1/3 cup of sugar into the milk and bring to a boil—be careful not to scorch. Remove from heat.
- In a separate medium bowl, mix the eggs with the cornstarch and the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar. Beat constantly until smooth.
- In a steady, thin stream, slowly pour the milk mixture into the egg mixture. **Use a hand mixer to beat while you pour, and be sure to pour slowly or the eggs will cook.
- Pour it all back into the pot and, using a hand mixer, continue to mix over low heat. The mixture should boil and become thick and turn lemon yellow in color. Once this happens, remove from heat.
- Stir in the butter and liqueur. You can also use vanilla extract or another flavoring of your choice.
Crust (makes 3)
- In a mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Scrape down the sides of the bowl, and add all remaining ingredients except for the flour.
- Slowly add the flour (you might not need all 4 cups) until the mixture comes together like a cookie dough. It should be soft but not at all crumbly*.
- Divide the dough into thirds (each crust takes 1/3 of the dough). Place the portion you’ll work with in a plastic zipper bag and refrigerate for 3 hours. Freeze the other two portions.
Baking & Assembly
- Preheat oven to 350ºF.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle approximately 1/4-inch thick.
- Lay the dough over the tart pan (there is no need for greasing). Push the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Trim the excess. Using a fork, poke holes across the bottom and sides.
- Bake for approximately 20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. (Traditionally, you could also do this by laying a piece of parchment over the crust and filling with dried beans or pie beads—either way works.)
- Remove from the oven and set aside to cool for a few minutes.
- While the tart crust is cooling, melt some good quality dark chocolate (I like Leonidas 70% Dark Cocoa bars). Spread a thin layer over the entire crust. Let the crust and chocolate cool and harden before removing from the tart pan.
- When ready, remove the tart from the pan, fill with cream, and cover with sliced fresh fruit.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of apricot jam with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Gently brush over the top of the tart for a shiny finish. You can also choose to sprinkle powdered sugar on the tart for a more rustic look. Enjoy!
Notes
Cooking Tips
The creation of a Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts is an endeavor that speaks to the heart of what it means to craft a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delectable. The process, divided into three main parts—the crust, the filling, and the topping—allows for a journey through textures and flavors that culminate in a harmonious masterpiece.
Starting with the crust, one might choose a classic pâte sucrée for its delicate, buttery crumb and slightly sweetened taste. The act of kneading the dough until it’s just right, followed by the careful pressing of it into the tart pan, can be quite meditative. There’s a certain joy in achieving the perfect thickness, ensuring that each bite will have the ideal balance of crispness and tenderness.
For the filling, a velvety crème pâtissière often serves as a luxurious bed for the fruit. The process of whisking the mixture over heat, watching as it thickens to a luscious consistency, can be a test of patience and precision. The aroma of vanilla bean infused within the cream is a simple pleasure that promises sweetness and comfort.
The topping, which is the crowning glory of the tart, is where wild strawberries come into play. These tiny jewels, with their intense red hue and concentrated flavor, are a testament to the beauty of nature’s offerings. Arranging the strawberries on the tart, perhaps alongside other fresh fruits, is an artistic endeavor. It’s a chance to play with colors and shapes, creating a pattern that is as pleasing to the eye as it will be to the palate.
In sharing this tart, there is an unspoken message of affection and care. Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts is a dessert that calls for a slow appreciation, ideally savored at a leisurely pace, perhaps with a dollop of softly whipped cream or a drizzle of honey to complement the natural sweetness of the fruit. It’s a treat that can bring a smile to faces, a moment of pure enjoyment that transcends the simplicity of its components to become something truly special.
Serving Suggestion
Serving Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts is an opportunity to celebrate the bounty of nature with a touch of elegance. The presentation of the tart itself is a canvas for expression, where the vibrant reds of the wild strawberries can be artfully arranged atop the creamy filling, creating a visual masterpiece that beckons the eye before it tempts the palate.
As you bring the Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts to the table, there’s a moment of quiet admiration for the beauty of the dessert, which often elicits soft murmurs of appreciation from those gathered. It’s a dessert that doesn’t rush you; instead, it invites you to savor the occasion. Cutting into the tart, the crispness of the pastry contrasts with the lushness of the fruit and the smoothness of the filling, each layer playing its part in this culinary symphony.
To serve, consider small plates that allow the individual portions of the tart to take center stage, each slice a generous offering of sweetness and care. The Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts, smaller and often more flavorful than their cultivated cousins, provide bursts of intense berry flavor that resonate with the subtle sweetness of the tart beneath.
Pairing Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts with a light, fragrant tea or a dessert wine can complement the flavors without overwhelming them. The act of pouring tea or wine for guests can add an element of ritual to the experience, enhancing the communal aspect of the meal. As the tart is enjoyed, there’s a shared sense of indulgence, a treat that feels both luxurious and comforting.
FAQs about Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts
When it comes to Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts, there are several questions that might arise, reflecting the curiosity and eagerness of those who wish to recreate this delightful dessert. Here are some frequently asked questions that encapsulate common inquiries:
- How do you ensure the tart crust remains crisp and doesn’t get soggy? The key to a crisp tart crust is to blind bake it first, which means partially or fully baking the crust before adding the filling. This process helps to set the crust and prevent it from becoming soggy when the moist filling is added. Additionally, brushing the crust with a thin layer of melted chocolate or an egg white glaze can create a barrier that protects against moisture.
- Can I use other fruits besides wild strawberries for the tart? Absolutely! While Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts bring a special touch, the beauty of a fresh fruit tart lies in its versatility. Feel free to incorporate other seasonal fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, kiwi slices, or peaches. The key is to select fruits that are ripe yet firm, so they hold their shape and provide a pleasant textural contrast.
- What is the best way to arrange the fruit on the tart? Arranging the fruit on the tart is an opportunity to get creative. Begin by placing larger fruit pieces at the bottom and work your way up to the smaller ones, creating layers. For visual appeal, consider creating patterns or concentric circles. The arrangement should be both aesthetically pleasing and practical, allowing each slice to have a variety of fruit.
- How can I make the glaze for the tart and what’s its purpose? A glaze for Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts typically consists of a fruit jelly or preserves thinned with a little water or fruit juice. Gently heat the mixture until it’s liquid enough to brush onto the fruit. The glaze serves two purposes: it gives the tart a shiny, appealing look and helps to preserve the fruit, keeping it looking fresh.
- Is it possible to make Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts ahead of time? While Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the crust and cream filling ahead of time. Assemble the tart with the fresh fruit and glaze a few hours before serving to maintain the freshness and texture of the fruit. If you need to store it, keep it refrigerated and covered lightly with plastic wrap.
In conclusion, the journey of crafting a Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts, especially one that features the delicate and exquisite wild strawberries, is a testament to the art of baking and the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. The three-part harmony of a buttery crust, velvety cream, and vibrant fruit topping comes together to create a dessert that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Each component, meticulously prepared, contributes its own unique texture and flavor, culminating in a symphony of taste that is sure to delight any palate.
For those who revel in the discovery of new recipes and the stories behind them, Foodies of New England is a treasure trove of inspiration. It’s a platform where the love for our rich culinary landscape shines through, and where a dessert like our Wild Strawberries and a Fresh Fruit Tart – A Fruit Tart in 3 Parts can take its rightful place among the region’s gastronomic delights.