Ah, plum tart! This vibrant dessert holds a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I baked one; it was during a warm summer afternoon, and I had just returned from our local farmer’s market, arms filled with freshly picked plums. The whole house filled with that heavenly sweet and tangy aroma as it baked, and oh boy, when I finally took my first bite, the buttery crust combined with juicy plums was pure bliss! It’s one of those treats that brings a little sunshine to any gathering.
What I love most about plum tart is its versatility. It’s equally delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled as a refreshing dessert. And honestly, there’s just something utterly satisfying about cutting into a perfectly baked tart and revealing that colorful, jewel-like filling. Let me share with you my favorite recipe for this delectable treat that always earns me rave reviews!
What’s in Plum Tart?
Plums: The star of the show! Sweet, ripe plums provide that luscious filling. I recommend going for any variety you prefer – Italian plums are fantastic, but feel free to mix things up.
Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base for the crust. It’s hearty and gives the tart its much-loved structure.
Butter: You can’t go wrong with butter! It helps create a rich, flaky crust. I usually use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness.
Sugar: A little bit of sugar sweetens the deal and brings out the plum’s natural flavors. I typically use granulated sugar, but light brown sugar works well if you want a hint of caramel flavor.
Egg: This helps bind the tart mixture together and gives it a nice richness.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor profile. Always opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
Is Plum Tart Good for You?
Now, let’s chat a bit about whether this delightful plum tart checks the health boxes.
Plums: These beautiful gems are full of antioxidants and vitamins, particularly vitamin C and vitamin K. They also contain dietary fiber, which can aid digestion.
Butter: While it does add richness and flavor, butter is, of course, high in saturated fats. Moderation is key, and using a quality butter can make a difference.
Sugar: As with most desserts, the sugar content can be a concern. You can always reduce the amount of sugar in the filling if you’re keen on a lighter version.
So, in moderation, this plum tart can certainly be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, especially when shared with friends and family.
Ingredients for Plum Tart
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– ½ cup granulated sugar (you can adjust to taste)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 4-5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
– A pinch of salt
*Serves 8*
How to Make Plum Tart?
1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the diced butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Beat the egg and vanilla extract together in a separate bowl, then stir this into the flour mixture. Mix until a dough forms – don’t overwork it!
4. Press this dough into a greased tart pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread along the bottom and up the sides. Use a fork to poke some holes in the base to prevent bubbling during baking.
5. Arrange the sliced plums beautifully over the dough. Sprinkle a little sugar on top if you like it sweeter.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the plums are tender.
7. Allow the tart to cool for a bit before slicing and serving.
Plum Tart Perfection Tips
– **Serve with Style:** A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes this tart to the next level.
– **Add Spices:** Sprinkle a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg over the plums before baking for a warm, cozy twist.
– **Storage:** This tart can be stored covered in the fridge for up to 3 days, but I doubt it will last that long!
I hope you find as much joy in baking and enjoying this plum tart as I have. Remember to share it with loved ones because food is best enjoyed together! Can’t wait to hear how yours turns out—happy baking!