Plum tart
Plum Tart: A Seasonal Delight, Full of Flavors and Nostalgia
When it comes to desserts, plum tart is definitely a favorite for many of us. This simple recipe transforms sweet, juicy plums into an elegant dessert, perfect for serving at a family meal or a gathering with friends. In this detailed guide, I will walk you step by step through the process of preparing this delicious tart, enriched with a creamy layer of mascarpone and a crunchy crust.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Necessary ingredients:
For the tart shell:
- 250 g flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 150 g cold butter
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the filling:
- 250 g mascarpone
- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 800 g plums (weighed with pits)
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon
For brushing:
- One egg
- Brown sugar (for sprinkling)
Preparing the Plum Tart:
1. Preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums well under cold running water. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Then, in a bowl, mix the plum halves with 5 tablespoons of sugar. Set them aside to release their juices, which will enhance the flavor of your dessert.
2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt and the 2 tablespoons of sugar. Add the cold butter, cut into cubes. Use your fingers or a mixer to mix the ingredients until you achieve a crumbly texture. This step is essential for getting a tender crust.
3. Adding the water: Gradually add the cold water, little by little, mixing continuously. The goal is to obtain a smooth but not sticky dough. Once you have achieved the desired consistency, form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for one hour. This step will help the dough cool and become easier to handle.
4. Preparing the filling: While the dough is cooling, prepare the filling. In a bowl, mix the mascarpone with the powdered sugar until you obtain a smooth and homogeneous cream. This layer will add a creamy and delicious note to your tart.
5. Assembling the tart: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until you get a thin sheet, then place it in a tart pan lined with parchment paper. Make sure the dough fits well into the edges. Keep a small portion of the dough to make a lattice on top.
6. Adding the filling: Evenly spread the mascarpone cream over the dough in the pan. Then, drain the plums from the syrup they released and arrange them evenly on top of the cream. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon for added flavor.
7. Creating the lattice: Roll out the reserved dough and cut it into thin strips. Arrange them in a cross pattern over the plums, forming a lattice. This not only looks good but also allows steam to escape during baking.
8. Brushing and baking: Beat the egg and lightly brush the lattice dough, then sprinkle brown sugar on top to achieve a golden and crunchy crust. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes, or until the tart is golden and the plums are tender.
9. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the tart cool completely, then dust with powdered sugar. The plum tart is served cold, possibly alongside a scoop of ice cream or a cup of hot tea, to highlight its delicious flavors.
Practical tips:
- If you like more intense flavors, you can add a splash of vanilla extract to the mascarpone cream or some chopped nuts to the filling.
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, but it is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crunchy texture of the crust.
- If you don’t have plums, you can experiment with other seasonal fruits like apples or peaches.
Nutritional benefits:
Plums are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. The mascarpone cream adds a rich content of calcium and healthy fats, making this tart a balanced choice for a dessert.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I substitute mascarpone? Yes, you can use cottage cheese or ricotta, but the final taste will be slightly different.
- How can I tell if the tart is baked? Check the crust: it should be golden, and the filling should be set.
Delicious pairings:
This plum tart pairs perfectly with a sweet wine or a fragrant tea. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream are excellent accompaniments.
Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the plum tart is an inspired choice that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Try this easy recipe and savor every bite!
Ingredients: For the tart shell: 250 g flour, 2 tablespoons sugar, 150 g cold butter, 2 tablespoons cold water, 1 teaspoon salt. For the filling: 250 g mascarpone, 3 tablespoons powdered sugar, 800 g plums (weighed with pits), 5 tablespoons sugar, a pinch of cinnamon. For brushing: 1 egg, brown sugar.
