Fruit tart with lemon cream

Fruit and Lemon Cream Tart: A Symphony of Flavors and Colors

Who doesn’t love a delicious tart filled with fresh fruits and a refreshing lemon cream? This dessert is not just a delight for the taste buds, but also a true culinary masterpiece. With a fluffy base and vibrant filling, this tart is sure to become the star of any festive meal or a relaxing afternoon with loved ones. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours (or as desired)
Total: 3 hours
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the base:
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of flour
- 3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 5 tablespoons of water
- 1 packet of baking powder
- Vanilla essence (optional)
- Grated lemon zest (for extra flavor)

For the lemon cream:
- 1 packet of lemon cream (e.g., Dr. Oetker)
- 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar
- 250 ml of milk

For decoration:
- Strawberries, cherries, or other fresh fruits (depending on the season and preferences)
- 1 packet of red cake gel (or preferred gelatin)

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is an essential step to ensure even baking of the base.

2. Prepare the syrup: In a small saucepan, add 1 cup of sugar and 5 tablespoons of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. This syrup will add moisture and sweetness to your bases.

3. Whisking the eggs: In a large bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the egg whites with a mixer until stiff peaks form. Here, it’s important to gradually add the hot syrup while continuing to mix. Finally, incorporate the yolks, one at a time. The oil and essences (vanilla and lemon zest) are also added to this mixture.

4. Adding dry ingredients: Sift the flour together with the baking powder and gradually incorporate them into the wet mixture. Mix gently, avoiding losing the air from the egg whites. If desired, you can add some pieces of fresh fruit, such as cherries or strawberries, for extra flavor.

5. Baking the base: Pour the mixture into a tart pan lined with parchment paper or greased with butter. Bake for about 40 minutes or until the base turns golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the pan.

6. Preparing the lemon cream: Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, mix one packet of lemon cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and 250 ml of milk. Use a mixer to achieve a fluffy mixture. It’s essential not to rush this step; a well-beaten cream will have an airy texture.

7. Assembling the tart: Once the base has cooled, evenly spread the lemon cream over the entire surface. Decorate with fresh fruits, and then pour the gelatin (cake gel) on top, following the instructions on the package.

8. Final cooling: Leave the tart in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but ideally, wait overnight. The longer the tart stays in the fridge, the better the flavors meld together.

Chef's Tip

For a tart with an even more intense taste and aroma, you can enrich the lemon cream with a bit of grated orange zest or even a few drops of orange flower water. Also, if you want a lighter and healthier result, you can replace the sugar with a natural sweetener.

Variations and Combinations

This tart lends itself to a multitude of variations. You can use any seasonal fruits, such as peaches, plums, or even pineapple. Additionally, for a more exotic flavor, you can add some chopped nuts or coconut flakes to the base.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of milk? Absolutely! Almond, soy, or oat milk will provide a distinct flavor and can be an excellent option for those following a vegan diet.

- How long can the tart be stored in the fridge? The tart can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days, but it’s best to cover it to prevent drying out.

- Is it possible to make the tart without eggs? Yes! You can try using an egg substitute (e.g., 1/4 cup of applesauce or yogurt) to achieve a moist and delicious base.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

A serving of fruit tart with lemon cream can have approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Fruits provide an important supply of vitamins and antioxidants, while the lemon cream offers a dose of calcium from milk. This tart is not just a sweet treat but also a healthier option when consumed in moderation.

Serving and Pairing

I recommend serving the tart with a warm herbal tea or a glass of freshly squeezed lemonade. These beverages will perfectly complement the tangy taste of the lemon cream and add a touch of freshness to your meals.

Now that you have all the information you need, all that’s left is to get started! Preparing this fruit and lemon cream tart will undoubtedly be a delightful experience, and the final result will turn into a delicacy appreciated by all your loved ones. Enjoy!