Mini tarts with strawberry jam

Mini Strawberry Jam Tarts

If you're looking for a quick, delicious, and impressive dessert, these mini tarts with strawberry jam are the perfect choice! Whether you're preparing them for a party, a picnic, or just to treat yourself, these tarts are a fantastic combination of flaky pastry and sweet filling. With a little patience and a few simple ingredients, you'll create a dessert that will delight both family and friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 22-25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 24 mini tarts

Ingredients:

For the pastry:
- 1 1/2 cups (200 grams) sifted flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (113 grams) butter, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup (50 grams) white sugar
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten

Filling:
- Strawberry jam (you can also use other types of jam, depending on your preferences)

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the pastry. In a large bowl, mix the white sugar with the butter at room temperature using a mixer or spatula until the mixture is fluffy and slightly creamy. This is an essential step, as well-incorporated butter will give your tarts a fine texture.

2. Add the lightly beaten egg to the butter and sugar mixture, continuing to mix to incorporate the ingredients well.

3. In another bowl, sift the flour together with the salt. This step helps to avoid lumps in the pastry and ensures even distribution of salt.

4. Gradually fold the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing constantly until you obtain a smooth dough. Don't worry if the dough seems slightly sticky; this is normal!

5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the butter, making the dough easier to handle.

6. Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Divide it into 24 equal pieces, making sure to save a small portion for decoration. This portion will be used to create stars to decorate your mini tarts.

7. Begin rolling out each piece of dough, ensuring you get discs about 5 cm in diameter. Use a muffin tin to form the cups, pressing the dough into each cavity.

8. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the mini tarts for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges become slightly golden.

9. Remove the tray from the oven and let the mini tarts cool for a few minutes. In each cup, add a generous spoonful of strawberry jam. You can experiment with different jams: raspberry, peach, or even a fruit mix for a unique flavor!

10. From the reserved dough, roll out the small portion and cut out thin star shapes. Carefully place them on top of each tart, then return the tray to the oven for another 10-12 minutes, until the stars are golden and crispy.

11. Once the mini tarts are done, let them cool completely before removing them from the tray. Serve them immediately or store them in an airtight container to enjoy later.

Practical Tips:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the mixture. You can let the butter soften for about 30 minutes before starting the recipe.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add a little vanilla to the butter and sugar mixture.
- Using strawberry jam is a traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with other fruits! In particular, blueberry or plum jam can add a delicious twist to your tarts.

Nutritional Benefits:
Mini strawberry jam tarts offer a source of antioxidants thanks to the fruits used. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this dessert a healthier option than many others.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Of course! You can try almond flour or a combination of whole wheat flour for a richer taste. Keep in mind that the final texture will differ.

2. How can I make these tarts less sweet?
Reducing the amount of sugar in the pastry is one option, and choosing a jam without added sugar could be an excellent way to control the sweetness of the dessert.

3. What drinks pair well with mini tarts?
These mini tarts pair perfectly with a warm fruit tea or fresh lemonade. Additionally, a glass of white wine or prosecco would wonderfully complement an elegant dessert.

I encourage you to try this flavorful recipe and enjoy every bite! Don't forget to share the result with your loved ones and create pleasant memories around the table. Mini strawberry jam tarts are more than just a dessert; they are an invitation to joy and conviviality. Enjoy!