Summer fruit tart

Summer Fruit Tart: A Sweet and Refreshing Indulgence

When it comes to desserts that delight our taste buds during the warm season, summer fruit tart is definitely a favorite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also extremely versatile, offering an explosion of flavors and colors. Whether you serve it at a party, a picnic, or simply to treat yourself, this tart will bring a smile to anyone's face. Let's see how you can make it step by step!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Cooling time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 servings

Ingredients
For the Tart Crust
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 150 g sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (preferably Dr. Oetker)
- 350 g flour

For the Lemon Cream
- 2 packets of lemon cream powder (Kaufland)
- 500 ml cold milk (preferably pasteurized)
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar

For the Topping
- 1 kg strawberries (choose fresh, ripe strawberries)
- 2 cans of pineapple in syrup (chunks)
- 1 jar of blueberry compote (Kaufland)
- 1 packet of chopped almonds (Kaufland)
- 2 packets of red gelatin
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 250 ml water or pineapple juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Tart Crust
1. Mix Butter and Sugar: In a medium bowl, add the room temperature butter and sugar. Use a mixer to blend the ingredients on medium-low speed until you achieve a fluffy and smooth cream.
2. Add the Egg Yolks: Add one egg yolk at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will help aerate the mixture.
3. Include Dry Ingredients: Add a pinch of salt and the vanilla sugar. Mix again.
4. Incorporate the Flour: Place the flour on a work surface and add the butter mixture. Gently knead until a smooth dough forms. Be careful not to over-knead to avoid a tough texture.
5. Chill: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes.

Step 2: Baking the Crust
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface using a rolling pin. Roll it to about 5 mm thickness.
3. Transfer to the Pan: Use the rolling pin to lift the dough and transfer it to the tart pan. Shape it according to the pan's form.
4. Bake the Crust: Prick the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake in the oven for 30 minutes or until golden. Allow it to cool completely.

Step 3: Preparing the Lemon Cream
1. Mix the Ingredients: In a tall bowl, pour 500 ml of cold milk. Add the contents of two packets of lemon cream powder and 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar.
2. Whip the Cream: Use a mixer to blend on low speed at first, then increase to maximum speed for 3 minutes until you achieve a thick cream. Refrigerate the cream until the crust cools.

Step 4: Assembling the Tart
1. Fill the Crust: Once the crust has cooled, pour the lemon cream over it, leveling the surface with a spatula.
2. Decorate with Fruits: Arrange halved strawberries in a row, followed by a row of pineapple chunks. Between these rows, add blueberries from the compote and sprinkle the chopped almonds for added crunch.

Step 5: Preparing the Gelatin
1. Mix the Gelatin: In a bowl, add 2 packets of red gelatin, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 250 ml of water or pineapple juice. Mix well.
2. Heat: Place the mixture over low heat and stir continuously until completely dissolved.
3. Distribute the Gelatin: Once the gelatin is liquid, gently pour it over the tart, starting from the center. Help with even distribution using a spatula.

Step 6: Cooling and Serving
1. Chill the Tart: Leave the tart in the fridge for about 2 hours or until the gelatin sets.
2. Serve with Style: Cut the tart into slices and serve it cold, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream or a fruit sauce. A refreshing drink like lemonade or iced tea will pair perfectly with this delicacy.

Tips and Practical Advice
- Buy Fresh Fruits: Make sure the fruits are well-ripened for maximum flavor. Buy strawberries with green tops and avoid those with spots or mold.
- Vary the Fruits: You can experiment with other seasonal fruits like peaches, raspberries, or fresh blueberries. You'll get a unique tart every time!
- If You Don’t Have Gelatin: You can use agar-agar as a substitute for traditional gelatin, perfect for a vegan version.

Nutritional Information
- Calories per serving: approximately 300 kcal
- Nutritional benefits: Fruits provide vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, while the lemon cream offers a refreshing and tangy taste.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
- Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture will be different.

2. How can I store the tart?
- The tart stores well in the fridge, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days.

3. Can I make the tart a day in advance?
- Absolutely! The tart will stay fresh and tasty, and the flavors will intensify.

The summer fruit tart is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that combines taste, texture, and aesthetic beauty. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a sweet moment, it will bring joy and indulgence with every slice. So, put on your apron and let your imagination run wild in the kitchen! Enjoy!