Why Make a Plum Tart?
Plums are a versatile fruit that works beautifully in both sweet and savory dishes. When baked, they become even more flavorful, their juices caramelizing to create a rich, fruity filling. A plum tart allows you to showcase the fruit's natural sweetness and vibrant color, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any ripe plums you have on hand.
Ingredients
To make a delicious plum tart, you'll need the following ingredients:
For the Pastry Crust:
1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
1 ½ pounds (about 6-8) ripe plums, pitted and sliced
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping (Optional):
2 tablespoons sliced almonds or chopped pistachios
1 tablespoon honey or apricot jam (for glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Pastry Crust:
Start by making the pastry crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this will result in a tough crust.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together. The dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disc. Wrap the disc in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Prepare the Plum Filling:
While the dough is chilling, prepare the plum filling. In a large bowl, combine the sliced plums, sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together until the plums are evenly coated. Set the filling aside and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Roll Out the Pastry Dough:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan or a free-form tart on a baking sheet. The dough should be about 1/8-inch thick. If you're using a tart pan, carefully transfer the rolled-out dough into the pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess. If you're making a free-form tart, transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Assemble the Tart:
Arrange the plum slices in a circular pattern on top of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border if you're making a free-form tart. If using a tart pan, you can arrange the plums to cover the entire surface. Pour any remaining juices from the filling bowl over the plums.
If you're making a free-form tart, fold the edges of the dough over the plums, pleating as you go. This rustic style adds to the charm of the tart.
Bake the Tart:
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the plum filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust are browning too quickly, cover them with strips of aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Add the Finishing Touches:
Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. If you like, you can sprinkle the top with sliced almonds or chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor. For a glossy finish, brush the plums with a little honey or melted apricot jam.
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the plum tart warm or at room temperature, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The tart can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Tips for Success
Choosing the Right Plums: Look for plums that are ripe but still firm. Overripe plums can release too much juice and make the tart soggy. If your plums are very juicy, consider adding an extra teaspoon of cornstarch to the filling to help thicken the juices.
Chilling the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling it out. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky crust. If the dough becomes too soft while you're working with it, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes to firm up.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different spices or even add a handful of fresh berries to the filling. You can also try using a different type of nut for the topping or skip the nuts altogether for a simpler tart.
Conclusion
A plum tart is a simple yet elegant dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of plums. With its buttery crust and juicy filling, it’s a treat that’s sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe is versatile and forgiving, making it perfect for both experienced bakers and those new to the kitchen. So the next time you find yourself with a surplus of plums, try baking a tart—you won’t be disappointed!
Whether you serve it as a dessert for a special occasion or as a sweet treat with your afternoon tea, this plum tart is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy baking, and most importantly, enjoy every delicious bite!
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