Plum Tart

Caramelized Plum Tart Recipe: A Fall Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Resting time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will teach you how to prepare a delicious plum tart, perfect for enjoying at a gathering with friends or family. This recipe is simple yet full of flavors, and the combination of the flaky crust and sweet plums makes it irresistible. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Recipe History
The plum tart has deep roots in culinary tradition, often made in the fall when plums are in full ripeness. It is a recipe that evokes comforting memories, from family meals to walks in fruit-filled gardens. This tart symbolizes family values and the joy of sharing special moments.

Ingredients
To create this caramelized plum tart, you will need the following ingredients:

For the crust:
- 300 g flour
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 1 egg
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Milk (as needed, about 2-3 tablespoons)

For the filling:
- 500 g plums (about 8-10 large plums)
- Sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Preparing the Crust
1. In a large bowl, sift the flour with the baking powder, sugar, and salt. This will ensure an even texture for the dough.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the diced butter. Use your fingers to combine the butter with the flour until you achieve a crumbly mixture.
3. Add the beaten egg, vanilla extract, and mix gently. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk until you get a smooth and elastic dough.
4. Once the dough is ready, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This step is essential for achieving a flaky and crispy texture.

Preparing the Filling
5. Meanwhile, wash the plums and remove the pits. Cut them in half and sprinkle sugar on top to lightly caramelize them. This sugar will help intensify the sweetness of the plum during baking.

Assembling the Tarts
6. After the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured work surface, roll out the first half of the dough into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the bottom of a tart pan.
7. Grease the pan with butter and dust it with flour, leaving enough overhang. Place the first sheet of dough in the pan, ensuring it is spread evenly.
8. Arrange the plum halves on top of the dough, taking care to distribute them evenly. Cover with the second sheet of dough, gently pressing the edges to seal.
9. Brush the surface with a beaten egg for a golden and beautiful crust, then lightly prick the tart with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Baking the Tarts
10. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the tart for 30 minutes or until golden and passes the toothpick test. Ensure the tart is well-baked but do not let it burn.

Serving and Variations
11. Once the tart is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. This will help maintain the crispy crust.
12. The plum tart can be served warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cream for added creaminess. You can also add a caramel sauce for a decadent taste.

Practical Tips
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy incorporation into the dough.
- If you desire a more intense flavor, you can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture.
- You can substitute plums with other fruits like peaches or apples, depending on the season.

Nutritional Information
This plum tart is an excellent choice for a treat. Each serving has about 250 calories and is a good source of fiber thanks to the fresh fruit. Plums are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this dessert not only delicious but also healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned plums?
Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the tart.

2. Can the tart be frozen?
Yes, the tart can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

3. What other recipes can it be paired with?
The plum tart pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a glass of sweet white wine. Additionally, a slice of goat cheese or ricotta can add a savory note.

I hope you enjoyed this caramelized plum tart recipe! It is simple and full of flavor, perfect for bringing a smile to your loved ones' faces. Don't forget to share your results and experiment with different fruit combinations! Bon appétit!