Cherry Tart ♥

Cherry Tart – A Perfect Delight for Any Occasion

Cherry tart is a classic dessert that brings an explosion of flavors and a delicious texture to the table. This recipe combines a delicate crust with a tangy cherry filling, creating a perfect balance. Whether you enjoy it with family or prepare it for a party, this cherry tart will surely impress.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients for the dough:
- 200 g flour
- 125 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons cold water

Ingredients for the filling:
- 400 g frozen cherries (you can use 500 g if you want a richer filling)
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 3-4 tablespoons cornstarch (preferably Dr. Oetker's Gustin)

Step-by-step preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, add cubed margarine, salt, sugar, and the beaten egg. Using a spatula or a mixer with dough hooks, mix the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. It is important to have the margarine at room temperature for easier incorporation.

Step 2: Incorporating the flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing continuously. After incorporating about 150 g of flour, transfer the mixture to a floured work surface. Use your hands to knead the dough. If the dough feels too dry, add the two tablespoons of cold water, one at a time, until the dough becomes elastic and smooth.

Step 3: Chilling the dough
Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 4: Preparing the filling
While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. Remove the cherries from the freezer and let them thaw. Do not discard the juice left behind; it is full of flavor! Once the cherries have thawed, pit them and place them in a saucepan along with the juice, adding the sugar. Cook the mixture over medium heat for a few minutes until the cherries start to soften.

Step 5: Thickening the filling
After the cherries have cooked, add the cornstarch and mix well. Let the mixture cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, until the filling thickens slightly. This will prevent the filling from leaking during baking. Once you achieve the desired consistency, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 6: Assembling the tart
After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal parts. Sprinkle flour on the work surface and roll out the first part of the dough into a thin sheet. Place the sheet in a greased and floured tart pan, ensuring to cover the edges well.

Step 7: Filling the tart
Pour the cooled cherry filling over the dough in the pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 8: Creating the top decoration
Roll out the second part of the dough and, using cookie cutters, create hearts or other desired shapes. Carefully place them on top of the filling, leaving small gaps for steam to escape during baking. This step not only provides an attractive appearance but also helps with even cooking of the tart.

Step 9: Baking
Preheat the oven to 175-180 degrees Celsius. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the shapes on top become slightly golden. I recommend checking the tart every 10 minutes to avoid burning.

Step 10: Cooling and serving
Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a cooling rack. Once the tart has completely cooled, dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look and enjoy it with your loved ones!

Serving suggestions:
The cherry tart pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of tea or coffee will also complement this sweet and tangy dessert beautifully.

Personalized variant:
If you want to add a unique touch to the tart, try adding a few drops of vanilla essence to the cherry filling or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor. You can also experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, to create a different version of the tart.

Nutritional information:
A serving of cherry tart (approximately 100 g) contains about 250 calories. It provides a good source of antioxidants due to the cherries, which are rich in vitamins A and C, and helps strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen cherries?
Yes, fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to wash them well and pit them before using.

2. How can I store the tart after making it?
The tart can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. What other variations can I try?
You can replace the cherries with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches, plums, or even apples. Each variation will bring a new and delicious flavor.

The cherry tart is definitely a dessert you will want in your recipe collection. With a little effort and a lot of love, you will create a tart that not only looks good but tastes great! Happy cooking!