Grape Tart

The dessert we will prepare together is a delicious grape tart, perfect for any occasion! This simple and tasty dessert will surely impress everyone. The grape tart combines a fluffy base with a fine cream, complemented by juicy grapes, and for an extra touch of elegance, we will use a jelly that will give our dish a sophisticated look. Let's embark on a culinary journey!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients

For the base:
- 4 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 4 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or canola oil)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the cream:
- 500 ml of milk (preferably whole for a richer cream)
- 125 g of sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 80 g of butter (at room temperature)
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar

For decoration:
- White grapes (preferably seedless)
- 1 packet of jelly (or gelling agent)

Recipe History

The tart is a classic dessert that has been appreciated over the centuries. Although the exact origins are not always clear, the tart evolved from simpler dishes, later enriched with various fillings and decorations. Today, the grape tart is a symbol of the autumn season, when grapes are in full ripeness, bringing a note of freshness and sweetness to desserts.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the base

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the yolks from the whites. Place the whites in a clean, dry bowl.

2. Beating the whites: Add a pinch of salt to the whites and use a mixer to beat them until stiff peaks form. This is an essential step to ensure a fluffy base.

3. Adding the sugar: While continuing to mix, gradually add the sugar and vanilla sugar. Keep mixing until the sugar is completely dissolved and the egg whites become glossy.

4. Beating the yolks: In another bowl, beat the yolks with the oil as if making mayonnaise. This will ensure a smooth texture for the base.

5. Combining the ingredients: Carefully fold the beaten yolks into the whipped whites using a spatula, mixing from top to bottom to avoid losing air in the mixture.

6. Adding the flour: Sift the flour together with the baking powder over the mixture and gently mix until fully incorporated.

7. Baking the base: Pour the mixture into a greased and floured tart pan (28 cm). Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the tart for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and passes the toothpick test.

2. Preparing the cream

1. Heating the milk: In a double-bottomed pot, add 400 ml of the prepared milk and a pinch of salt. Heat it over medium heat, being careful not to let it boil.

2. Preparing the yolk mixture: In another bowl, whisk the yolks with the sugar and vanilla sugar. Add the remaining milk and flour, mixing well to avoid lumps.

3. Combining: Pour the yolk mixture into the hot milk, stirring vigorously. Keep stirring until the cream thickens, being careful not to let it stick.

4. Finishing the cream: Once the cream has thickened, remove it from the heat and add the diced butter. Mix well until completely melted. Cover the pot with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the cream to prevent a crust from forming and let it cool.

3. Assembling the tart

1. Layering: Once the base is baked and cooled, spread the cream evenly over it.

2. Decorating: Cut the grapes, remove the seeds (if any), and arrange them nicely on top of the cream.

3. The jelly: Prepare the jelly according to the instructions on the package. Once ready, carefully pour it over the grapes, ensuring it coats the fruit evenly.

Practical Tips

- Choosing grapes: Use juicy, seedless white grapes for an appealing look and enjoyable eating experience. The grapes should be fresh to add a vibrant taste to the dessert.
- Cooling: Allow enough time for the cream and tart to cool, so you achieve a perfect texture and attractive appearance.
- Variations: You can replace the grapes with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or plums, to create different versions of this tart.
- Serving: Serve the tart with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or almond flour, but adjustments to the liquid quantities may be necessary.

2. How long does the tart keep? The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is most delicious on the first day after preparation.

3. Can I replace the eggs in the recipe? Yes, for a vegan version, you can use an egg replacer or banana puree in the base mixture.

4. Is this recipe suitable for a special event? Absolutely! This grape tart not only looks stunning, but its refined taste makes it ideal for parties or family gatherings.

Nutritional Benefits

This grape tart provides a good source of calcium from milk, vitamin C from grapes, and protein from eggs. It is also a relatively light option that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, the grape tart is a dessert that brings together the sweet taste of grapes, the creamy texture of the cream, and the airy base. It is a perfect choice to celebrate beautiful moments in your life or simply to indulge after a long day. So, put on your apron and let’s enjoy this delicious recipe!