Plum tart

Delicious Plum Tart – a classic seasonal recipe, simple and refined, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness at any time of the day. This tart is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with juicy plums and a crumbly dough that will melt in your mouth. Let's embark together on this culinary journey, step by step, to create a plum tart that will impress everyone!

About the recipe

The plum tart has a long history, being a dessert widespread in many cultures. This dish is part of the traditions of making the most of seasonal fruits, and plums, with their sweet-tart flavor, are ideal for creating a savory dessert. This simple recipe is perfect for beginners, but also for experienced cooks who want to pay tribute to the authentic taste of plums.

Preparation time

- Preparation time: 25 minutes
- Baking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

- 700 g plums (choose ripe but firm plums)
- 175 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of sour cream (you can use heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- 50 ml milk
- 500-600 g flour (preferably type 00 wheat flour for a finer dough)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (adjust the amount according to the sweetness of the plums)
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar (or you can use vanilla extract)
- 1 packet of baking powder

Necessary utensils

- Baking tray (23/29 cm)
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spatula for mixing
- Grater or knife for cutting the plums
- Baking paper (optional, to avoid sticking)

Preparing the plum tart

1. Preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums under a stream of cold water. Remove the pits and cut the plums into quarters. Place them on a paper towel to drain excess water, so the tart does not become too wet.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the soft margarine (or butter), eggs, sour cream, and milk. Mix well until you obtain a smooth and creamy mixture. Add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix.

3. Incorporating the flour: Sift the flour together with the baking powder into the wet ingredient mixture. Gently mix with a spatula or a mixer on low speed until the dough begins to form. Stop when the dough becomes smooth, but do not over-knead to avoid a dense texture.

4. Shaping the dough: Divide the dough into two parts, ensuring one is slightly larger than the other. This will be the base of the tart, and the other will be used to create a lattice on top.

5. Rolling out the dough: On a floured work surface, roll out the larger dough so that it is large enough to cover the sides of the tray. Carefully transfer it to the greased tray, ensuring the dough sits evenly.

6. Arranging the plums: Place the quartered plums on the dough, packing them tightly to make the most of their flavor. Sprinkle the 2 packets of vanilla sugar over the plums to caramelize them during baking.

7. Creating the lattice: Roll out the smaller dough and cut it into thin strips. Lay the strips over the tart, forming a lattice. Leave small gaps between the strips to allow steam to escape and to achieve an attractive appearance.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tart in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the dough turns golden and crispy.

9. Cooling and serving: Allow the tart to cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. You can serve the tart warm or cold, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream for a delicious contrast.

Practical tips

- Choosing plums: Opt for ripe but firm plums to avoid a tart that is too soft. Plums with slightly wrinkled skin are the best choice.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough or even a bit of rum to enhance the flavors. You can also replace the plums with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apples.
- Storage: The plum tart keeps well at room temperature for a day or two, but you can freeze it to enjoy later. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.

Nutritional benefits

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain fiber, which aids digestion, and are rich in vitamin K, essential for bone health. Using sour cream or butter can add healthy fats, but it’s best to consume in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned plums? It is recommended to use fresh plums for a good texture in the tart. If using canned plums, make sure to drain them well.
- How can I prevent the tart from sticking to the tray? Using margarine or butter to grease the tray is essential. You can also use baking paper for a perfect result.
- Is the tart suitable for special events? Absolutely! The plum tart is an elegant dessert, perfect for festive meals or gatherings with friends.

Serving suggestions

To transform this plum tart into an unforgettable dessert, try serving it with a caramel or chocolate sauce. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream will perfectly round off the experience. Additionally, a sweet wine or an aromatic tea can wonderfully complement this dessert.

Enjoy every slice and savor the flavor of caramelized plums, enveloped in a crispy dough! Bon appétit!