Pumpkin and Carrot Tart

Pumpkin and Carrot Tart: An Autumn Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Spring and summer are often associated with fresh fruits, but autumn brings us the richness of cool vegetables and fruits, and the pumpkin and carrot tart is a perfect choice to combine sweetness with the earthy flavors of the season. This recipe offers a delicious combination of pumpkin and carrot, sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon, transforming a simple dessert into a true feast of flavors.

Recipe History
Over time, pumpkin tart has been a symbol of the cold season, being popular in various cultures as a way to make the most of the autumn harvest. The combination of pumpkin with carrot is a modern innovation that adds an extra note of sweetness and a pleasant texture, turning a classic dessert into a family favorite.

Ingredients
For the crust:
- 100 g butter (for a creamy taste, choose high-quality butter)
- 300 g wheat flour (make sure it is type 000 for a fine crust)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 3 sachets of vanilla sugar (or you can add a fresh vanilla pod for an authentic taste)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of milk or yogurt (Greek yogurt will add a creamy texture)

For the filling:
- 1 medium pumpkin (about 1 kg, preferably Hokkaido or butternut for its sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon (warm and comforting flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the pumpkin)
- 1 carrot (for a crunchy texture and extra sweetness)

Necessary tools
- A tart pan
- A pot for boiling
- A mixer or whisk
- A grater for the carrot
- Baking paper
- A fork

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Pumpkin
Start by peeling the pumpkin. Cut it into pieces, remove the seeds, and boil it in a pot of water. Cook until soft (about 15-20 minutes). After boiling, drain the water and let it cool, then peel and mash well.

2. Preparing the Carrot
Grate the carrot using a grater. This will add an interesting texture and natural sweetness to the mixture.

3. Preparing the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, grated carrot, sugar, vanilla sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well until you have a homogeneous mixture. Taste and adjust the sugar if necessary.

4. Preparing the Crust
In another bowl, add the flour, cubed butter, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use a mixer or combine by hand until you get a crumbly mixture. Add the eggs and milk or yogurt, continuing to mix until the dough becomes smooth. If the dough is too stiff, add a little milk or yogurt.

5. Forming the Tart
On a working surface, place a piece of baking paper sprinkled with flour. Put the dough on the paper and roll it out into a sheet larger than the pan. Gently lift the paper and place the dough in the pan, trimming the excess.

6. Assembling the Tart
With a fork, poke holes in the dough in the pan to prevent puffing. Pour the pumpkin and carrot mixture over the dough, spreading it evenly. Using the excess dough, roll out a thin sheet and cut it into strips. Place the strips on top of the filling for a rustic look.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the dough strips with a beaten egg for a golden finish. Place the pan in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is firm.

8. Serving
Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Practical Tips
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the filling.
- Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, to add extra nutrients.
- The tart is even better the next day when the flavors have melded well.
- You can serve the tart with a warm tea or mulled wine for a truly comforting experience on chilly autumn evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, canned pumpkin is a convenient alternative, but make sure it is 100% pumpkin without additives.
- How can I store the tart? The tart stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutritional Benefits
Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, while carrot provides a boost of beta-carotene. This tart is not only a delight but also a nutritious choice, rich in fiber and antioxidants.

I encourage you to try this pumpkin and carrot tart recipe! It is a perfect choice for autumn meals or to impress guests at a special occasion. Enjoy!