Nectarine tart with vanilla cream

The nectarine and vanilla cream tart is a dessert that perfectly combines the sweetness of fresh fruits with the creaminess of a fine cream, bringing a touch of elegance and refinement to any occasion's table. This recipe, although it seems sophisticated, is actually easy to prepare and does not require advanced cooking skills. It is said that the tart was popularized in bakeries around the world, where it is often proudly displayed in windows, attracting the attention of passersby. Let's start the kitchen adventure!

Recipe details:

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Resting time: 2-3 hours (in the fridge)
- Baking time: 20-25 minutes
- Number of servings: 8-10

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 250 g margarine or butter (at room temperature)
- 200 g brown sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons sour cream
- 500 g flour
- 1 vanilla essence

For the vanilla cream:
- 1.2 l milk
- 450 g sugar
- 250 g flour
- 8 eggs (4 yolks and 4 whites)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar or a vanilla pod
- A pinch of salt

For decoration:
- Fresh nectarines (or other seasonal fruits like peaches or raspberries)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, mix the margarine or butter with the brown sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and the sugar crystals dissolve completely. This step is essential for obtaining a tender dough.

2. Adding the yolks:
Add the egg yolks one at a time, making sure to incorporate them well into the mixture. Then, add the sour cream and vanilla essence, continuing to mix.

3. Incorporating the flour:
Sift the flour and gradually incorporate it into the butter mixture. You will obtain a homogeneous but slightly soft dough. Shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for 2-3 hours. This step is crucial as cooling helps the dough become easier to handle.

4. Preparing the vanilla cream:
In a bowl, mix the 4 egg yolks with 350 g sugar, 200 ml cold milk, and flour until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. In a saucepan, bring the remaining milk (1 liter) to a boil together with a pinch of salt.

5. Thickening the cream:
Once the milk has started to boil, add the egg and flour mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cream thickens. Here, patience is key! A well-cooked cream will have a smooth and silky consistency.

6. Beating the egg whites:
Allow the cream to cool slightly, then fold in the two beaten egg whites with 100 g sugar and vanilla sugar. Gently mix to retain the air in the egg whites, which will make the cream even fluffier.

7. Baking the tarts:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Remove the dough from the fridge and break it into small pieces. Shape each piece into tart molds, ensuring an even layer of about 3 mm. Bake the tarts for 20-25 minutes until golden. Remove them immediately from the molds and let them cool.

8. Assembling the tarts:
Once the tarts have cooled, fill them with the vanilla cream. Decorate with slices of fresh nectarines or other seasonal fruits for a vibrant and appetizing look.

9. Serving:
The vanilla cream and nectarine tarts are served cold, making them a perfect dessert on hot summer days.

Tips and tricks:

- Choosing fruits: Nectarines are delicious, but feel free to experiment with peaches, strawberries, or raspberries, depending on the season. Sour fruits like raspberries add an interesting contrasting note to the sweet cream.
- Watch the texture: Make sure the vanilla cream is well thickened. If it seems too liquid, continue cooking a bit longer, stirring constantly.
- Vary the flavors: Try adding a bit of cinnamon or cardamom to the vanilla cream for an exotic touch.

Nutritional benefits:

This tart offers a balance of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins due to the ingredients used. Nectarines are rich in vitamins A and C, with a low calorie content, making them an excellent choice for a healthy dessert.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
Certainly! Butter will provide a richer flavor and a finer texture.

2. How can I store the tart?
These tarts are best consumed fresh, but they can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 1-2 days.

3. Can I freeze the tart?
It is recommended to freeze only the dough and cream, not the assembled tart. Once baked, the texture may change.

This dessert is perfect for impressing guests at a party or simply for treating your family to something sweet. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family evening, the nectarine and vanilla cream tart will bring smiles to everyone. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!