Mini Goat Cheese Tarts

Mini Tarts with Goat Cheese and Raspberries

These mini tarts with goat cheese are the perfect indulgence for any occasion, from an elegant dinner to a casual gathering with friends. With a crispy crust and a creamy filling, they quickly transform from a simple dessert into a true culinary masterpiece. Let’s discover together how to prepare them!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour (including cooling time)
Number of servings: 8 mini tarts

Ingredients

*For the dough (8 cups):*
- 41 g powdered sugar
- 147 g flour
- 28 g cornstarch
- 50 ml full-fat milk
- 1 tablespoon palm oil (or another neutral oil)

*For the filling:*
- 250 g fresh goat cheese
- 150 ml sweetened liquid cream (plant-based)
- 18 g powdered sugar

*For decoration:*
- Fresh or frozen raspberries (other fruits can be used according to preference)

The story behind the recipe

Mini tarts with goat cheese have become popular as an elegant dessert in various cultures, often associated with festive meals or sophisticated parties. Goat cheese, with its distinct flavor and creamy texture, combined with sweet and tart raspberries, creates a contrast of flavors that delights the taste buds.

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the dough
We start by mixing the powdered sugar with the flour and cornstarch in a large bowl. This mixture will provide a fine and crispy dough. We add the milk and palm oil, then knead until we obtain a smooth dough. It is essential not to over-knead so that we do not end up with a tough dough.
Once the dough is ready, we wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This step not only helps the dough cool but also gives it a better texture when baked.

2. Preheating the oven
While the dough cools, we preheat the oven to 200°C. This is the ideal time to prepare the tart molds, ensuring we have all the ingredients at hand.

3. Shaping the tarts
After the dough has cooled, we take it out of the refrigerator and divide it in two. We roll each half between two sheets of baking paper until it reaches a thickness of about 3 mm. Using a 10 cm round cutter, we cut circles from the dough.
Then, we roll the cut circles again to ensure they fit perfectly in the tart molds. We carefully place them in the molds, gently pressing with our fingers to adjust. Don’t forget to poke the base of the dough with a fork a few times to prevent puffing during baking.

4. Baking the crust
We cover the dough with aluminum foil and add rice or beans to weigh it down. This will help maintain the shape of the tarts during baking. We place the molds in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden. Once they are ready, we remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before filling.

5. Preparing the filling
In a bowl, we mix the goat cheese with two tablespoons of liquid cream and the powdered sugar. It is important to use fresh goat cheese to achieve a velvety texture. Separately, we whip the rest of the cream until stiff peaks form. Using a spatula, we carefully fold the whipped cream into the goat cheese mixture.

6. Filling the tarts
Using a piping bag, we fill each dough cup with the goat cheese mixture. This is the moment to let creativity shine – you can add a drizzle of honey or a splash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost.

7. Decorating the tarts
Finally, we top each mini tart with fresh or frozen raspberries. These fruits not only add a pleasing appearance but also a delicious contrast of flavors.

Useful tips and variations
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add some fresh herbs, such as basil or mint, to the goat cheese filling.
- Instead of raspberries, try using blackberries, blueberries, or even kiwi slices to vary the flavors.
- Another option would be to replace goat cheese with ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, but make sure the texture and flavor match the other ingredients.

- How can I store the tarts?
These mini tarts can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to enjoy them fresh to savor the crispy texture of the dough.

- What drinks pair well with this dessert?
A sweet white wine or prosecco are excellent choices to accompany these mini tarts. Additionally, a fruit tea or a raspberry cocktail can add a touch of refinement.

Nutritional benefits
These mini tarts are a good source of protein due to the goat cheese, and raspberries provide vitamins and antioxidants. Although they are a dessert, when consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

So, let’s get cooking! These mini tarts with goat cheese are not only delicious but also a true visual feast. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just for a personal treat, they are sure to impress everyone. Enjoy!