Vanilla and berry tart

Vanilla and Berry Tart: A Perfect Delight

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours (including cooling time)
Servings: 8

When it comes to desserts, vanilla and berry tart is undoubtedly a choice that brings a smile to anyone's face. This recipe is a more sophisticated version of classic tarts, featuring a buttery crust and a smooth vanilla cream, all topped with delicious raspberries and blackberries. It is a treat that not only delights the taste buds but also pleases the eyes, boasting a vibrant appearance thanks to the fresh fruits.

The history of tarts is fascinating; over time, they have evolved from simple mixtures of flour and water to elaborate desserts filled with refined ingredients. The vanilla and berry tart is a perfect example of how a dessert can combine simplicity with elegance.

Ingredients:

- 300 g flour
- 150 g raw sugar
- 150 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 egg
- 5 egg yolks
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- 5 tablespoons flour
- 700 ml sweet milk
- 200 g fresh blackberries and raspberries

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Dough: Start by making the dough. In a large bowl, combine 300 g of flour with 150 g of raw sugar. Add 150 g of cubed unsalted butter and 1 egg. Use your fingers to knead the ingredients until you achieve a sandy texture. It is essential not to overwork the dough to keep it tender.

2. Chilling the Dough: Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps solidify the butter, making the tart crust crispier.

3. Rolling the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on a work surface and roll it out to about 5 mm thick. If you don’t have a tart pan, don’t worry; you can use a regular baking tray.

4. Baking the Dough: Place the dough in the tart pan, pricking it with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 20 minutes or until golden. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely.

5. Preparing the Vanilla Cream: While the dough cools, you can prepare the cream. In a bowl, whisk 5 egg yolks with 5 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture lightens in color and doubles in volume. Then add 5 tablespoons of flour, mixing well to avoid lumps.

6. Thickening the Cream: In a saucepan, bring 700 ml of sweet milk close to a boil. When warm, gradually add the egg yolk mixture, stirring constantly. Then, place the saucepan over a bain-marie and keep stirring until the cream thickens, reaching a pudding-like consistency.

7. Assembling the Tart: Once the vanilla cream has cooled slightly, pour it over the cooled tart base. Evenly distribute 200 g of blackberries and raspberries on top, arranging them aesthetically. These fruits not only add color but also a pleasant contrast between sweet and tart that will delight any foodie.

8. Final Cooling: Cover the tart with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and makes the tart easier to slice.

9. Serving: When you are ready to enjoy this delight, slice it and serve it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. You can also drizzle a bit of honey or a berry sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing Fruits: Use fresh, seasonal fruits for the best flavors. Raspberries and blackberries are perfect, but you can experiment with blueberries or strawberries for a personalized touch.
- Vegan Option: If you want a vegan version, you can replace the butter with plant-based margarine and the eggs with a mixture of mashed banana or apple puree.
- Pairing with Beverages: The vanilla and berry tart pairs perfectly with a fruit tea or a glass of prosecco, adding a festive touch to your table.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 6 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier version, but you may need to adjust the liquid quantity.
- How long can the tart be stored? The tart can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible to enjoy the freshness of the fruits.

This vanilla and berry tart is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that combines textures and flavors in a way that you will love. Don't hesitate to put your stamp on this recipe, adding a touch of your personality to each slice. Enjoy!