Plum baskets with vanilla cream

Plum Tarts with Vanilla Cream

The plum season is one of those magical times of the year when the sweet and juicy flavors of autumn fruits flood our senses. If you are looking for a quick and delicious dessert, the plum tarts with vanilla cream are the perfect choice. These delights not only look spectacular but also perfectly combine the subtle taste of plums with the creaminess of vanilla, offering a contrast of textures and flavors that will captivate you.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes
Number of servings: 12 tarts

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 125 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons of cold water
- 200-250 g flour
- Zest of one lemon (for added flavor)

For the filling:
- 40-45 plums (or enough to fill the molds)
- 10 teaspoons of sugar (you can adjust to taste)
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Vanilla cream (recommended Dr. Oetker vanilla cream)
- 250 ml milk

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the margarine (or butter) with the sugar, baking powder, and salt. Use a spatula or mixer to achieve a smooth mixture. Then add the lemon zest and mix well.

2. Adding the flour: Gradually incorporate the flour, mixing continuously. It is important not to knead the dough too much; it should remain tender. If the dough is too dry, add cold water one tablespoon at a time until you achieve the right consistency.

3. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in cling film and let it chill in the refrigerator for about an hour. This step is essential for obtaining tender and easy-to-handle tarts.

4. Preparing the plums: Wash the plums, cut them in half, and remove the pits. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle sugar and cinnamon over them. Gently mix to coat them evenly.

5. Forming the tarts: Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 3 mm. Use a glass or cutter to cut out larger circles. Place each circle into the muffin molds, pressing gently to fit the shape.

6. Filling the tarts: Fill each mold with 4-5 plum halves, then add half a teaspoon of sugar and a little cinnamon on top.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 175 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the tarts for 35-40 minutes, or until they become golden and fragrant.

8. Cooling and filling: Once the tarts are baked, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool. After they have cooled, carefully remove the tarts from the molds.

9. Preparing the vanilla cream: In another bowl, prepare the vanilla cream according to the instructions on the package, using the 250 ml of milk. Mix well until you achieve a smooth cream.

10. Filling the tarts: Use a spoon or piping bag to fill each tart with the vanilla cream.

11. Serving: You can serve the tarts immediately or keep them in the fridge to cool completely.

Practical tips

- Healthier option: If you prefer a healthier version, you can use coconut oil instead of margarine or butter, and reduce the amount of sugar.
- Alternative fruits: Instead of plums, you can experiment with apples or peaches, adjusting the sugar and cinnamon based on their sweetness.
- Serving: These tarts can be served alongside vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
- Complementary drinks: A fruit tea or a sweet wine can perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional benefits

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They can aid digestion, being rich in fiber, and contribute to heart health through the nutrients they contain. Additionally, the vanilla cream adds a creamy and delicious taste, making this dessert a wonderful choice for any occasion.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I replace plums with other fruits?
Yes, you can use apples, peaches, or even cherries to diversify the flavor.

2. How can I keep the tarts fresh?
It is recommended to store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

3. What can I do with the leftover cream?
You can use the remaining cream to fill pancakes or as a filling for other desserts.

These plum tarts with vanilla cream are not only a simple and quick dessert but also a perfect way to enjoy seasonal fruits. I invite you to try this recipe and let the delicious aromas fill your home. Enjoy!