Nothing says summer quite like the sweet and tangy flavor of cherries, and what better way to enjoy them than in a delicious cherry tart? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a stunning and mouth-watering cherry tart that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to deliver delightful results.
Ingredients Cherry Tart
To get started, gather the following ingredients:
For the crust:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
4 cups fresh cherries, pitted
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the topping:
1/4 cup slivered almonds (optional)
Powdered sugar for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust: Cherry Tart
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg yolk and ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and the cherries release their juices, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Assemble the Tart:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit your tart pan.
Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
Pour the cherry filling into the crust and spread it evenly.
4. Bake the Tart:
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
If using, sprinkle slivered almonds on top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
5. Finish and Serve:
Allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the pan.
Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips for a Perfect Cherry Tart
Use Fresh Cherries: Fresh cherries provide the best flavor and texture. If fresh cherries are not available, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well.
Keep the Butter Cold: Cold butter is essential for a flaky crust. If your kitchen is warm, you can chill the flour mixture in the freezer for a few minutes before adding the butter.
Avoid Overworking the Dough: Overworking the dough can result in a tough crust. Mix just until the ingredients come together.
With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to create a cherry tart that is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for a summer dessert or a special occasion, this cherry tart will surely become a favorite in your baking repertoire.