Peach Tart

Peach Tart: A Sweet and Fragrant Delight

Peach tart is a classic dessert that combines the crispy texture of a flaky crust with the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a touch of elegance to your table. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or simply as a treat at the end of a long day, this tart is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s discover together how to prepare this wonderful peach tart, step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Resting time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The History of Peach Tart

Peach tart is a recipe rooted in pastry traditions, where seasonal fruits are transformed into irresistible delights. It is said that the tart was created to take advantage of the bountiful harvest of summer, and peaches, with their sweet and juicy flavor, are the perfect ingredient to bring a refreshing note to desserts.

Ingredients Needed

*For the crust:*
- 250 grams of flour (preferably type 000 for a fine texture)
- 1-2 tablespoons of sugar (choose the amount based on personal preference)
- 125 grams of butter (preferably at room temperature for easier incorporation)
- 1 egg (to bind the dough)

*For the filling:*
- 7-8 ripe peaches (choose well-ripened peaches for an intense flavor)
- 400 grams of cottage cheese (preferably fresh cheese for a creamy texture)
- 150 grams of sugar
- 3 eggs (to give structure to the filling)
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (adds a pleasant aroma)
- Grated zest of one lemon and one orange (for an extra touch of freshness)
- 2 tablespoons of rum or brandy (to enhance the flavors)

Preparing the Peach Tart

1. Preparing the Dough
Start by preparing the dough. In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and butter. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg and mix until the composition becomes homogeneous. It’s important not to over-knead the dough to maintain its flaky texture.

2. Chilling the Dough
Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps the dough firm up and become easy to roll out.

3. Preparing the Peaches
Meanwhile, wash the peaches and place them in a pot of boiling water for about 1-2 minutes. This method will make peeling easier. After blanching, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly. Peel the skins, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Drizzle with brandy and set aside to combine the flavors.

4. Rolling Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, remove it and roll it out on a floured surface until you achieve a thin sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Place the dough in a tart pan lined with parchment paper, ensuring it rises up the sides of the pan.

5. Pre-baking the Dough
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the empty crust for about 10 minutes until it becomes lightly golden. This step helps achieve a crispy and delicious base.

6. Preparing the Filling
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until the mixture is creamy and light in color. Add the cottage cheese, cornstarch, vanilla sugar, and lemon and orange zest. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

7. Assembling the Tart
After the dough has been pre-baked, pour the cheese filling into the pan, leveling it evenly. Place the peaches, cut side down, on top of the filling.

8. Final Baking
Bake the tart at 180 degrees Celsius for 30-40 minutes or until the filling is firm and lightly golden. Check the tart with a toothpick – if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

9. Cooling and Serving
Allow the tart to cool completely in the pan, then dust it with sugar before cutting. The peach tart is best served alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea.

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Result

- Choose ripe peaches: Well-ripened peaches will add sweetness and a pleasant texture. Make sure they are firm but not too hard.
- Dust with sugar: After the tart has cooled, dust it with sugar for an elegant appearance and sweet flavor.
- Add a personal touch: You can experiment with different flavors, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, in the filling. You can also use low-fat cottage cheese for a healthier option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can replace peaches with plums, apples, or even cherries.

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven to regain its crispness.

3. Is this tart suitable for vegans?
For a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with a plant-based egg substitute, such as banana puree or vegan yogurt. Also, use margarine instead of butter.

4. What are the nutritional benefits of this tart?
Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, and cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein. This dessert can provide a sweet yet nourishing snack.

Perfect Pairings

Peach tart pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a white wine or prosecco can perfectly complement the flavors of the dessert.

In conclusion, peach tart is a simple and delicious recipe that can become a star on your table. With just a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you will create a dessert that will impress everyone. Enjoy!