When it comes to desserts that combine elegance and simplicity, the Pear Tart With Shortbread Crust stands out. This delightful dessert, perfect for any occasion, brings together the delicate flavor of pears with the rich, buttery taste of a shortbread crust. Originating from French patisseries, this tart is a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly exquisite. Whether you are a seasoned baker or a beginner, this Pear Tart With Shortbread Crust recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Shortbread Crust
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pear Filling
- 4 medium pears, ripe but firm
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Glaze
- 1/4 cup apricot jam
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
Preparing the Shortbread Crust
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
- Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared tart pan. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to smooth out the surface.
- Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.
Preparing the Pear Filling
- Peel, core, and slice the pears into thin, even slices.
- In a large bowl, toss the pear slices with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Ensure the pears are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Arrange the pear slices in a circular pattern over the cooled crust, starting from the outside and working your way to the center. Overlap the slices slightly for a decorative effect.
Baking the Tart
- Bake the assembled tart in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the pears are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- While the tart is baking, prepare the glaze by heating the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan over low heat until the jam is melted and smooth.
- Brush the hot tart with the apricot glaze as soon as it comes out of the oven. This will give the tart a beautiful shine and add a touch of sweetness.
Cooling and Serving
- Allow the tart to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before removing the sides of the tart pan.
- Serve the Pear Tart With Shortbread Crust warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Success
- Choose the right pears: Bosc or Anjou pears work best for this recipe as they hold their shape well during baking.
- Prevent a soggy crust: Ensure the tart crust is completely cooled before adding the pear filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Glazing: Brushing the tart with apricot glaze not only enhances its appearance but also adds a subtle sweetness that complements the pears.
Variations
- Add nuts: Sprinkle sliced almonds or chopped walnuts over the pears before baking for added texture and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or ginger to give the tart a unique twist.
- Fruit combinations: Mix pears with apples or quinces for a delightful variation.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 100mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
The Pear Tart With Shortbread Crust is a timeless dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any meal. Its combination of buttery crust and sweet, spiced pears is sure to win over your taste buds. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.