Plum tart

Plum Tart – An Explosion of Flavors and Textures in Every Slice

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8

Welcome to the world of seasonal delicacies! Today, I invite you to join me in preparing a plum tart, a simple yet elegant dessert that will bring a touch of joy to every meal. This dish is not only a burst of flavors but also a wonderful way to make the most of fresh seasonal fruits. The history of this tart takes us back in time when people shared their joys and family recipes, and fruit desserts were always in high demand.

Necessary ingredients:

For the crust:
- 200 g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 300 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 500 g plums (fresh or well-ripened)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs or 4 crushed cookies
- Cinnamon, to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is soft and at room temperature for easy incorporation into the mixture. It is recommended to choose ripe but not overly soft plums to achieve a tart with a pleasant texture.

2. Making the crust: In a large bowl, add the soft butter, sugar, vanilla sugar, and salt. Use a mixer or spatula to blend the ingredients until they form a smooth cream. This process will add air to the dough, making the tart slightly fluffy.

3. Incorporating the egg: Add the egg and continue mixing until fully integrated. Eggs not only provide moisture but also help bind the ingredients together.

4. Adding the flour: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This will help aerate the flour and contribute to a lighter texture in the tart. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter cream, mixing with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a smooth dough.

5. Chilling the dough: Set aside a piece of dough the size of a medium apple. Wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

6. Preparing the tart pan: While the dough is chilling, grease a tart pan with a little butter or oil to prevent sticking. Use a pan with a diameter of about 26 cm for a perfectly proportioned tart.

7. Rolling out the dough: Remove the dough from the fridge and, using a rolling pin, roll it out evenly in the prepared pan. Make sure the dough covers the edges of the pan. After rolling out the dough, chill it again for another 30 minutes. This step will help maintain the shape of the crust during baking.

8. Preparing the filling: Wash the plums, remove the pits, and cut them in half or into slices. Sprinkle cinnamon over the fruit, adding a warm and aromatic flavor. In the tart pan, sprinkle the breadcrumbs or crushed cookies, which will absorb the juices from the fruit and prevent the dough from becoming soggy.

9. Assembling the tart: Carefully arrange the plums on top of the breadcrumbs, placing them attractively for a pleasing appearance. Remove the dough from the freezer and, using a grater, grate it over the fruit to create a slightly crispy topping.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy.

11. Cooling and serving: Once the tart is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then remove it from the pan and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack. Cut the tart after it has cooled completely. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Helpful tips:
- You can substitute plums with other seasonal fruits, such as apples or peaches, to vary the recipe.
- For a more intense flavor, add a splash of rum essence to the plum mixture.
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, covered with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness.

Nutritional benefits: Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, making them excellent for digestive health and maintaining healthy skin. This tart is not only a delicious dessert but also a healthier option due to the fresh fruit.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but make sure to adjust the proportions, as they may have a different capacity to absorb liquids.
- How can I make the tart less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough and choose tarter plums for the filling.
- What drinks pair well with plum tart? A cup of herbal tea or a sweet white wine can perfectly complement the flavors of the tart.

This plum tart is perfect for both a gathering with friends and a family dessert. Each slice brings a taste of nostalgia and joy, turning any meal into a special moment. So, don't hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the delights you’ve created together! Enjoy!