Fig tart with frangipane cream

Fig Tart with Frangipane Cream: An Autumn Delight

The fig tart with frangipane cream is a dessert with rich origins, admired worldwide for its refined aroma and delicate texture. This recipe is so simple that it will quickly become one of your favorites in the cold season. Made with sweet figs and a fine almond cream, the tart is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a healthy choice due to the nutritional benefits of figs.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 450 g puff pastry, ready-made
- Flour for dusting
- 1 beaten egg yolk, for glazing
- Ripe figs
- For the frangipane cream:
- 100 g butter, at room temperature
- 100 g powdered vanilla sugar and a little extra for dusting
- 1 large beaten egg yolk
- 100 g ground almonds
- 25 g flour
- For serving:
- Honey
- Heavy cream

Preparation:
1. Frangipane cream: Start by preparing the frangipane cream, which will give the tart a divine taste. In a bowl, cream the butter with the powdered sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation. Then add the beaten egg yolk and mix well until perfectly combined.

2. Add dry ingredients: Incorporate the ground almonds and flour into the butter mixture, gently mixing to achieve a uniform composition. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the cream rest for 5 minutes. This step will help develop the flavors.

3. Prepare the pastry: Preheat the oven to 200°C. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a sheet about the thickness of a coin. Using a small plate, cut out 4 discs from the pastry. Leave a margin of about 1 cm and lightly trace a border around the discs with the tip of a knife, without cutting through the pastry completely.

4. Assemble the tart: Place the pastry discs on a large baking tray. Brush the edges with the beaten egg yolk for a golden color when baked. Spread a thin layer of frangipane cream in the center of each disc.

5. Add the figs: Slice the figs into thin rounds and arrange them beautifully in a circle over the frangipane cream. These fruits not only add a touch of sweetness but are also an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

6. Bake: Dust the tarts with a little powdered sugar and bake them in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry becomes crisp and golden. The edges will rise slightly around the figs, giving a rustic and appetizing appearance.

7. Finish: Once the tarts are ready, drizzle them with honey while still warm to enhance the sweetness of the figs. Let them cool slightly before serving.

8. Serve: Serve the tarts warm or at room temperature, alongside a spoonful of heavy cream. This will add a creamy and delicious contrast to the tart's crispy texture.

Helpful tips:
- If you can't find fresh figs, you can experiment with other fruits, such as pears or peaches, which pair wonderfully with almond cream.
- Make sure the puff pastry is well chilled before using it to achieve a perfect texture.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the frangipane cream.

Nutritional benefits:
Figs are fruits rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, B, and K, as well as essential minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium. They contribute to the proper functioning of the digestive system and help maintain skin health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use tart dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, but the texture will be different. Puff pastry provides a lighter and crispier crust.

2. How can I store leftover tarts?
Keep the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. They can also be consumed cold, but are most delicious when heated.

3. What other fruits pair well with frangipane cream?
Besides figs, you can use apricots, plums, or even apples for a seasonal variation.

This fig tart with frangipane cream is a true feast for the senses, perfect to be enjoyed with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!