Looking for the perfect cherry tart recipe that balances sweet and tart flavors? This recipe is for home bakers who want to impress guests with a homemade dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end bakery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this cherry tart recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
Trivia: What makes tart cherries different from sweet cherries? Tart cherries have a lower sugar content and a higher acidity, which gives them their signature tangy flavor, making them perfect for baking.
Recipe Information
| Yields | 8 servings |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 15 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 320 kcal |
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 4 cups tart cherries, pitted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, and pulse until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Cherry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the tart cherries, granulated sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Fill and Bake the Tart
Pour the cherry filling into the baked crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake the tart for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the filling is set. Allow the tart to cool completely before serving.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 44g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 28g |
| Protein | 4g |
Watch this video for more tips on making a perfect cherry tart:
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Food processor
- 9-inch tart pan
- Rolling pin
- Plastic wrap
- Pie weights or dried beans
- Parchment paper
- Medium saucepan
- Spatula
Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations
- Quick Cherry Tart: Use store-bought pie dough to save time on preparation.
- Cherry Tart Variations: Add a layer of almond cream or frangipane under the cherry filling for an added dimension of flavor.
- Cherry Tart Tips: Make sure to use cold butter to achieve a flaky crust.
- Recipe Swap: Swap tart cherries for sweet cherries if you prefer a less tangy tart.
How to Store Leftovers
Wrap any leftover cherry tart tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the tart for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
FAQs
Q: What are tart cherries good for?
A: Tart cherries are excellent for baking due to their tangy flavor. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and improve sleep quality.
Q: What is the difference between sour cherries and tart cherries?
A: Sour cherries and tart cherries are often used interchangeably. Both types have a high acidity level and a lower sugar content compared to sweet cherries, making them ideal for baking.
Q: Are tart cherries healthier than sweet cherries?
A: Tart cherries contain more anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant, compared to sweet cherries. This gives them additional health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and potential sleep benefits.
Q: Can you eat tart cherries raw?
A: Yes, you can eat tart cherries raw, but they are quite sour compared to sweet cherries. Most people prefer to use them in recipes like pies, tarts, and jams.
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