Mini tarts with vanilla cream and fruits

Mini Fruit and Vanilla Cream Tarts: A Delightful Treat Within Reach

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 12 mini tarts

Who doesn't love a delicious tart with a crispy crust and smooth vanilla cream, topped with fresh fruits? Today's recipe for mini tarts with vanilla cream and fruits is a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a party, a picnic, or simply a relaxing evening at home. These tarts are not only a culinary indulgence but also a visual delight that will impress anyone who tastes them.

The history of mini tarts is fascinating, with deep roots in baking traditions. Tarts with various fillings have been made throughout the centuries, using simple yet effective ingredients. Today, I will share with you a simple and quick recipe that is sure to become one of your favorites.

Ingredients for the crust:
- 300 g flour
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Ingredients for the cream:
- 500 ml milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons cornstarch
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon

Fruits for decoration:
You can use seasonal fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi. They not only add a fresh flavor but also a vibrant splash of color.

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the crust
Start by making the crust. In a large bowl, mix the 300 g of flour with the 125 g of diced butter. Use your fingers to combine the butter and flour until you achieve a sandy texture. This step is essential for obtaining a flaky crust.

Add the 2 egg yolks, 1 tablespoon of powdered sugar, and the vanilla sugar. Mix everything until it forms a homogeneous dough. If the dough is too dry, you can add a tablespoon of cold water to help it bind better.

Once you have the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 1 hour. This step will not only firm up the dough but also enhance the flavor.

Step 2: Baking the mini tarts
After the dough has rested, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease the tart pans with oil or butter to prevent the dough from sticking.

On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3 mm thick. Use a knife or a cutter to cut out large circles that fit into the tart pans. Place the dough in the pans, gently pressing the edges to secure it.

Bake the mini tarts for 25-30 minutes or until they turn golden. Once they are done, let them cool completely. It's important not to fill them with cream until they are completely cool, or the cream will melt.

Step 3: Preparing the vanilla cream
In a saucepan, heat 500 ml of milk over medium heat. In a separate bowl, whisk the 2 egg yolks with 100 g of powdered sugar until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the 5 tablespoons of cornstarch and mix well.

When the milk begins to boil, slowly add the egg yolk mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the cream thickens, then remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the lemon zest and vanilla sugar, mixing well to achieve an intense flavor.

Let the cream cool to room temperature, then fill each mini tart with the vanilla cream. Make sure to distribute the cream evenly for a uniform and attractive appearance.

Step 4: Decorating with fruits
Now comes the fun part! Choose the fresh fruits you want to use. You can slice the strawberries thinly, use whole blueberries, or create a colorful mix of fruits. Arrange them beautifully on top of the cream for an appetizing and appealing look.

Serving suggestions and variations
These mini tarts with vanilla cream and fruits are delicious served cold, but you can also try a warm version by placing them back in the oven for an additional 15 minutes to warm up. Additionally, you can replace the vanilla cream with chocolate cream or add a bit of coffee to the vanilla cream for a more sophisticated flavor.

For a touch of freshness, you can add fresh mint leaves as a garnish, which will provide a refreshing aroma. These mini tarts pair perfectly with a fruit tea or a glass of sweet white wine, making them ideal for a summer evening.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour for the crust?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture and taste will vary.

2. How can I store the mini tarts?
It's recommended to keep them in the refrigerator, covered, and consume them within 2-3 days to enjoy their freshness.

3. What other fruits can I use?
You can use almost any seasonal fruits, such as peaches, cherries, or mangoes.

Nutritional benefits:
These mini tarts are a good source of protein due to the egg yolks and contain a significant amount of calcium from the milk. Fresh fruits provide vitamins and antioxidants, making these tarts a healthier choice compared to other processed desserts.

In conclusion, mini tarts with vanilla cream and fruits are not only a delicious option but also an excellent way to experiment with your favorite ingredients. So, embark on your cooking adventure and enjoy every bite!