Plum Tart with Crumble

Plum and Crumble Tart: a delight that combines the sweetness of fruits with the crunch of a crumble layer. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also fill your home with an irresistible aroma while baking. The origins of this tart are lost in the mists of time, but it is known that tarts have always been an excellent way to make the most of seasonal fruits. Now, let’s get to work!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients for the dough:
- 125 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 200 g flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Zest of a small lemon
- Juice of a lemon
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the filling:
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- 500 g plums (weighed without pits)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Ingredients for the crumble:
- 100 g butter (melted)
- 80 g sugar
- 100-120 g flour

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the dough
Start by creaming the butter with the brown sugar and a pinch of salt, using a spatula or a mixer on low speed. It is important that the butter is soft for easy incorporation. Add the beaten egg, lemon zest, and baking soda dissolved in lemon juice. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

2. Incorporating the flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or by hand, until about half of it is incorporated. Then, transfer the mixture to a floured work surface and knead the dough with your hands until it is homogeneous and incorporate the remaining flour. Don’t worry if the dough seems a bit sticky. Wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for an hour. This step is essential for achieving a perfect texture, as the dough will firm up and be easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the plums
While the dough cools, wash the plums, cut them in half, and remove the pits. The plums are what will bring this tart to life, providing a delicious contrast between their natural sweetness and the aroma of cinnamon.

4. Assembling the tart
After an hour, take the dough out of the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface. Form a round sheet slightly larger than the tart pan (ideally 30 cm). Place the dough in the ceramic dish, pressing gently with your fingers to fit the shape. If using a standard pan, remember to grease it with a bit of butter or line it with baking paper to prevent sticking.

5. Cooking the plums
Sprinkle a tablespoon of semolina on the bottom of the tart, then place the plum halves cut side up. This step helps absorb the juice from the plums, preventing the dough from becoming too wet. Sprinkle the vanilla sugar and cinnamon over the plums for added flavor.

6. Preparing the crumble
In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, sugar, and flour. Use your fingers to knead the ingredients until you obtain a softer, crumbly mixture. This dough will add a crunchy and tasty texture over the juicy plums.

7. Baking
Evenly sprinkle the crumble over the plums and place the pan in the preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the surface is golden and crunchy. Let the delicious aroma fill your home!

8. Serving
Once the tart is baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. The plum and crumble tart is delicious both warm and at room temperature.

9. Serving suggestions
You can serve the tart with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast. These combined flavors will transport you directly to summer, regardless of the weather outside.

Practical tips:
- Use well-ripened plums for an intense taste and richer aroma.
- If you want to give your tart an exotic touch, add some pecans or ground almonds to the crumble mixture.
- You can replace the plums with other seasonal fruits such as peaches, apples, or cherries to vary the recipe.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
The plum and crumble tart is a healthier choice compared to other desserts, thanks to the fresh fruits and simple ingredients. A serving (about one slice) can contain between 200-250 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used and specific ingredients. Plums are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, having benefits for digestion and skin health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of plums? Yes, this recipe is versatile. Replace the plums with peaches, apples, or cherries for a tart with different flavors.
2. How can I store the tart? The tart can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
3. Is it possible to make the tart gluten-free? Sure, you can use gluten-free flour to make a version friendly for those with intolerances.

In conclusion, this plum and crumble tart is not only a quick and simple dessert to prepare but also a wonderful way to bring joy to your table. With each bite, you will feel the warmth and love that lies behind every recipe cooked with soul. So, don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones!