Cherry tart

Cherry Tart: A Summer Delight in Every Slice

Who doesn't love a fluffy tart with a delicate crust and juicy cherry filling? This cherry tart recipe is perfect for those moments when you want to treat your family or friends to a simple yet flavorful dessert. The origins of this tart are lost in time, but it is clear that over the years, it has become a symbol of summer when cherries are at their most aromatic. So, let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:

For the crust:
- 250 g butter (or Rama margarine, if you prefer)
- 400 g flour
- 300 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 small essence of vanilla
- 3 egg yolks

For the filling:
- 1 jar of cherry compote (approximately 400 g, pitted)

For decoration:
- Powdered sugar for sprinkling

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the crust: Start by preparing the delicate crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Then, add the butter cut into cubes at room temperature. Use a mixer or knead with your fingers until the mixture becomes grainy, similar to sand.

2. Adding the yolks: Add the 3 yolks and the essence of vanilla. Mix well until the dough becomes homogeneous. If it seems too dry, you can add a tablespoon of cold water. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 2 hours. This step is essential to achieve a perfectly flaky tart.

3. Preparing the cherries: While the dough cools, prepare the cherries. Remove the cherries from the compote and drain them well, then lightly toss them in flour. This is a trick that helps absorb excess liquid, preventing the tart from becoming too wet.

4. Rolling out the dough: After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal parts. Sprinkle flour on the work surface and roll out each part into a thin sheet, large enough to cover a round tart pan (approximately 28 cm in diameter).

5. Assembling the tart: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the first sheet of dough in the prepared pan, making sure to press it gently on the edges. Bake this sheet for about 5 minutes until it starts to firm up.

6. Adding the cherries: Remove the pan from the oven and add the floured cherries, evenly distributed over the entire surface.

7. Decorating with dough: Roll out the second sheet of dough and cut it into thin strips. Place the strips of dough over the cherries, forming a lattice pattern. This detail not only looks good but also helps cook the cherries evenly.

8. Final baking: Put the tart back in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the dough turns golden. It is important to keep an eye on it, as every oven bakes differently.

9. Cooling and serving: When the tart is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan. Once it has completely cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look.

10. Serving suggestion: Serve the tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sweet cream. These combinations add a creamy note that balances the acidity of the cherries and turns the dessert into a real feast.

Nutritional benefits and calories:

This cherry tart, while a delicious dessert, also contains some nutritional benefits. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, helping to improve digestion and strengthen the immune system. A serving of tart (approximately 1/8 of the total tart) contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a dessert that, when consumed in moderation, can be part of a balanced diet.

Tips and variations:

- Fruit variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as cherries, blueberries, or peaches. Each variant will offer a different but equally delicious taste.
- Whole wheat flour: If you want a healthier option, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour. This will add extra fiber and nutrients.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for an extra flavor boost. These spices pair very well with cherries and will give the tart a warm and comforting note.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How can I avoid the tart becoming soggy?
- Make sure the cherries are well-drained and dusted in flour. If you notice that the filling is too wet, you can add a little cornstarch to absorb the excess liquid.

2. Can I freeze the cherry tart?
- Yes, this tart can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. You can keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. How can I make the tart less sweet?
- You can reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or choose cherries from compote in their own juice, which are less sweet than those in syrup.

The cherry tart is a dessert that not only delights your taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and joy in every slice. Whether you serve it to loved ones or enjoy it during your moments of indulgence, this simple and delicious recipe will surely become a favorite for everyone! Savor every moment and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!