Vanilla and strawberry tart
Vanilla and Strawberry Tart - A Sweet Indulgence for Any Occasion
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Cooling time: 2-3 hours (in the fridge)
Total: Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I present you a recipe for a vanilla and strawberry tart, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a celebration, a family meal, or simply a moment of personal indulgence. This tart combines a crispy crust, a smooth vanilla cream, and a vibrant strawberry topping, turning each slice into a true taste experience.
The history of tarts is fascinating, as they have been made over the centuries in various forms, evolving from simple pies to elaborate desserts. Today, the vanilla and strawberry tart remains a favorite due to its delicious combination and the ease with which it can be made. Let’s see together how we can prepare this wonderful dessert!
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 125 g cold butter, cubed
- 220-240 g flour (the exact amount depends on the type of flour used)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of Green Sugar (or regular sugar, to taste)
- Zest of half an orange
- Juice of half an orange
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- A pinch of salt
For the vanilla cream:
- 3 egg yolks
- 500 g milk
- 4 tablespoons of cornstarch
- 1 vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons of Green Sugar (adjust to taste)
- Fresh strawberries, for decoration
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the crust
1. In a medium bowl, add the cold cubed butter, sugar, salt, egg, orange zest, and juice. Mix the ingredients by hand until you get a homogeneous mixture.
2. Dissolve the baking soda in the orange juice and add it to the mixture. Gradually incorporate the flour, continuing to knead until the dough no longer sticks to your hands. It’s essential not to add too much flour, or the crust will become too hard.
3. Once the dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 2 hours. This step is important to achieve a crispy texture and facilitate rolling out the dough.
Step 2: Baking the crust
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. On a floured work surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you get a round sheet about 3 mm thick. Try to maintain an even shape.
3. Place the dough in a detachable or regular tart pan (don’t forget to place baking paper underneath to facilitate removing the tart after baking).
4. Gently press the dough onto the edges to fit well. Cover with baking paper, leaving the edges uncovered. Fill with rice or beans to prevent the dough from puffing up.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust turns golden. Once baked, let it cool.
Step 3: Preparing the vanilla cream
1. In a bowl, combine the egg yolks with the sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Mix well to form a smooth paste.
2. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Place the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly. Cook until the cream thickens and resembles pudding. Once it reaches the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
Step 4: Assembling the tart
1. When the crust is completely cool, pour the vanilla cream over it, smoothing it out with a spatula.
2. Add the beautifully sliced strawberries on top of the cream, arranging them as desired. They not only add a vibrant look but also a fresh and delicious taste.
3. Cover the tart with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a few hours (ideally overnight) for the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
This vanilla and strawberry tart is perfect to be served as is or alongside a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creaminess. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh lemonade can complement this dessert beautifully.
If you want to experiment, try replacing the strawberries with other fresh fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. You can also add a splash of orange liqueur to the vanilla cream for an even more sophisticated flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This tart is not only a delicious dessert but also a source of nutrients. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them excellent for the immune system and cardiovascular health. Additionally, the milk and eggs in the cream provide essential proteins for a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar, but it’s important to adjust the amount to taste.
2. How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. It is recommended not to leave it at room temperature for too long.
3. Can it be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the tart crust without the cream. Once thawed, add the cream and fresh fruits for a delicious dessert.
So, let’s enjoy this wonderful dessert! Happy cooking and feel free to share the results of your creation!
Ingredients: For the crust: 125 g cold butter 220-240 g flour depending on the flour used 1 egg 1 tablespoon Green Sugar grated zest from half an orange juice from half an orange 1/2 teaspoon baking soda a pinch of salt For the vanilla cream: 3 egg yolks 500 g milk 4 tablespoons starch 1 vanilla essence 4 tablespoons Green Sugar (to taste) strawberries
