Peach Tart

Peach Tart: A Summer Delight

The peach tart is a fragrant dessert, full of flavor, that brings a touch of sunshine in every slice. It is a perfect recipe for hot summer days when peaches are in season and offer an irresistible natural sweetness. With a crunchy texture and a smooth egg yolk cream, this tart perfectly blends sweet and tangy. Moreover, it is a simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for serving on any special occasion.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the tart dough:
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar
- Flour – as needed (approximately 200-250 g)
- 3-4 medium ripe and fragrant peaches

For the egg yolk cream:
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- Vanilla extract (optional, but recommended for an extra flavor)

For the meringue:
- 3 egg whites
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- Lemon juice (approximately 1 teaspoon)

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Dough:
- In a bowl, beat the egg with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and doubles in volume. This will contribute to a light texture of the dough.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly, until you obtain a dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. You can start with 200 g of flour and then add a little more until you reach the desired consistency.
- Gently knead the dough on a floured surface until it becomes smooth and elastic. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly uniform; this is normal for tart dough.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest at room temperature for at least 10 minutes. This step is essential to allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

2. Rolling Out the Dough:
- After the dough has rested, roll it out on a floured surface into a disc, ensuring it is large enough to cover the bottom and sides of the tart pan.
- Place the dough in the tart pan, making sure it fits well. Prick the bottom of the dough with a fork in several places to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

3. Preparing the Peaches:
- Wash and peel the peaches, then slice them thinly. Arrange them evenly on top of the dough, creating a decorative and delicious layer.

4. Preparing the Egg Yolk Cream:
- In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly frothy. This will add a subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor.
- Pour the egg yolk cream over the peach slices, making sure to cover them evenly.

5. Preparing the Meringue:
- Beat the egg whites until frothy, gradually adding the sugar until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue. Add the lemon juice, which will help the meringue maintain its shape.
- With a spatula, spread the meringue over the egg yolk cream, forming delicate peaks for an attractive appearance.

6. Baking the Tart:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the meringue becomes lightly golden and firm.
- About 5-10 minutes before finishing baking, leave the oven door slightly ajar, using a wooden spoon. This trick will help the meringue dry out and prevent it from collapsing.

7. Cooling and Serving:
- Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool at room temperature. Then, refrigerate it to firm up a bit, which will make the tart easier to slice.
- Serve the tart cold, cut into generous slices. You can decorate it with a little fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Peaches: Choose well-ripened and fragrant peaches, as they will significantly influence the final taste of the tart. Check to ensure they are soft to the touch, but not overly ripe, to avoid breaking during preparation.
- Variations: You can experiment with other fruits, such as apricots, plums, or apples. Each variation will bring a different and interesting note.
- Serving: The tart pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, lightly whipped cream, or even a caramel sauce for a contrast of textures and flavors.
- Storage: If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), the tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible to enjoy its fresh taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Peaches are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, with a high content of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. They are also a good source of fiber, contributing to digestive health. In combination with eggs and sugar, this tart becomes a delicious dessert that also offers essential nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned peaches?
Yes, you can use canned peaches, but make sure they are well-drained to avoid affecting the tart's texture.

2. How can I make the tart less sweet?
If you prefer a less sweet taste, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the egg yolk cream or opt for more tart peaches.

3. Can I replace the tart dough with a store-bought one?
Sure! A store-bought tart dough can save time and is an excellent option for quick preparation.

4. What other drinks pair well with the tart?
A fresh lemonade, iced tea, or a light white wine can perfectly complement this delicacy.

This peach tart is not just a dessert, but a summer story, full of colors and flavors. Whether you serve it at a family meal or bring it to a party with friends, each slice will bring smiles and joy. So, put on your creative hats, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience!