Cherry Tart with Meringue

Cherry and Meringue Tarts - A Holiday Delight

Today, I invite you to prepare a special recipe together, perfect for any holiday or special occasion: cherry and meringue tarts. This sweet dessert, with a delicate texture and intense cherry flavor, is sure to impress everyone. Whether it's a birthday, a gathering with friends, or simply a day when you want to treat yourself, these tarts are the ideal choice. So, let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 individual tarts

Ingredients

For the tart dough:
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 250-260 g flour
- 1 egg
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 80 g granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 400 g pitted cherries
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Zest of one orange
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 egg yolk

For the meringue:
- 2 egg whites
- 125 g granulated sugar
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened butter with the granulated sugar and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer or spatula to achieve a creamy and smooth mixture.
2. Add the egg and milk, mixing well until fully combined.
3. Gradually incorporate the sifted flour, mixing with a spatula or by hand until you have a smooth dough. If the dough is too soft, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for one hour. This step is essential for achieving a flaky crust.

Step 2: Baking the crust

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (or 160°C for a fan oven).
2. After the resting time, take the dough out of the refrigerator and, on a floured surface, roll it out into a thin sheet.
3. Cut the dough into circles and place each circle into the greased tart pans. Make sure the dough covers the edges well.
4. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they turn lightly golden. Once baked, let them cool.

Step 3: Preparing the filling

1. In a bowl, add the pitted cherries and let them drain in a strainer to remove excess liquid.
2. In the juice from the cherries, dissolve one tablespoon of flour, then add the egg yolk and orange zest. Mix well, then place the mixture over a double boiler. Cook until the mixture thickens, stirring constantly.
3. Once the cream has thickened, add the drained cherries and gently mix. Allow the filling to cool.

Step 4: Preparing the meringue

1. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until frothy. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a firm and glossy meringue.
2. If desired, you can add a few drops of lemon juice to stabilize the meringue.

Step 5: Assembling and final baking

1. Once the tarts have cooled, fill each tart with the cherry filling, being careful not to overfill to avoid spillage.
2. On top of each tart, add a generous spoonful of meringue, spreading it evenly.
3. Place the tarts back in the oven, allowing them to bake at a high temperature (about 200°C) for 5-8 minutes or until the meringue turns lightly golden. Be careful not to leave them too long, as they can burn easily.

Step 6: Serving

1. Allow the tarts to cool completely before serving. It is recommended to refrigerate them for a few hours or even overnight, as the crust will become flakier and absorb the flavors of the filling.
2. These cherry and meringue tarts are delicious served cold, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of green tea.

Practical Tips and Variations

- Fresh cherries vs. canned cherries: If using canned cherries, make sure to drain them well to avoid adding too much liquid to the filling.
- Fruit variations: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as cherries, peaches, or plums. Each fruit will give a different note to the dessert.
- Flavored meringue: Add a few drops of vanilla or almond extract to the meringue for an extra flavor boost.
- Gluten-free dough: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend.

Nutritional Information

A serving of cherry and meringue tart contains approximately 250 calories, making it a sweet yet not overly heavy choice. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, while the meringue, although sweet, is relatively light. This dessert is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without being excessively heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sugar?
Yes, you can use coconut sugar or brown sugar, but the taste and texture of the meringue may change slightly.

Is it necessary to use a double boiler for the filling?
This technique helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture, but you can try cooking the mixture directly over heat, being careful not to let it stick.

Why is it good to refrigerate the tarts before serving?
Chilling allows the flavors to develop, and the crust becomes flakier and more pleasant to taste.

These cherry and meringue tarts are not just a dessert; they are a true celebration of flavors and textures. Each bite is an explosion of taste, and making them is a delightful activity, perfect for spending time in the kitchen. So, don’t hesitate to prepare them and enjoy every moment spent with your loved ones!