Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted a cherry bakewell tartlet? They’re like little bites of heaven! I can still remember the first time I baked these beauties. The aroma of sweet almond and buttery pastry wafting through my kitchen was simply irresistible. Trust me, there’s something magical about that flaky crust hugging the rich frangipane filling, all topped off with a juicy cherry. It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that just makes my heart sing! Plus, they’re so charmingly petite—it’s hard to stop at just one! Whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or treating yourself to a little indulgence, these tartlets are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make them!
Ingredients for Cherry Bakewell Tartlets
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to whip up these delightful cherry bakewell tartlets! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pack shortcrust pastry: This is the base of our tartlets. You can either make your own or grab a pre-made pack to save time.
- 100g ground almonds: This gives that wonderful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with cherries.
- 100g butter: Make sure it’s softened so it mixes easily with the sugar.
- 100g sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten the frangipane filling.
- 2 eggs: These will help bind everything together and add moisture.
- 1 tsp almond extract: For that extra pop of almond flavor—trust me, it makes a difference!
- 12 cherries: Fresh or jarred will work, but I love using the fresh ones for a burst of juiciness on top!
- Icing sugar for dusting: A light sprinkle on top just before serving adds that lovely finishing touch.
And there you have it! Gather these ingredients, and we’ll be ready to create some deliciousness! Don’t worry if you’re not a pro at pastry—these tartlets are super forgiving and oh-so-rewarding!
How to Prepare Cherry Bakewell Tartlets
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the fun part—making these scrumptious cherry bakewell tartlets! I promise, it’s easier than you might think, and the results are oh-so-satisfying. Let’s go step by step!
Preheat and Prepare
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that your tartlets bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While that’s warming up, take your pack of shortcrust pastry and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Aim for about 3mm thickness; it doesn’t have to be perfect! Next, cut out circles that are slightly larger than the holes in your muffin tin, so they fit snugly. Gently press the pastry into each muffin cup, making sure to push it right into the corners. This is where the magic happens!
Make the Frangipane Filling
Now for the delicious frangipane filling! In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key—don’t rush it! Once it’s nicely combined, crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the almond extract for that delightful aroma! Finally, gently fold in the ground almonds until everything is well blended. You want a smooth and creamy consistency, so take your time with this step.
Assemble the Tartlets
Alright, it’s time to bring it all together! Spoon the frangipane filling into each pastry case, filling them about three-quarters full. Don’t overfill; we want them to rise beautifully! Now, take those lovely cherries and place one on top of each tartlet. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even push them slightly into the filling. It adds a lovely touch and ensures they stay in place while baking!
Baking Instructions
Pop your tartlets into the preheated oven and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them as they bake; your kitchen will smell heavenly! Once they’re done, take them out and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Before serving, give them a light dusting of icing sugar to make them look extra special. Trust me, they’ll be the star of any dessert table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: These tartlets come together in no time, making them perfect for a last-minute dessert.
- Delightful Flavors: The combination of sweet almond frangipane and juicy cherries creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist!
- Perfect for Gatherings: Their charming size and beautiful presentation make them ideal for parties, picnics, or afternoon tea.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: With simple and wholesome ingredients, these tartlets are a great option for everyone!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fruit or add your own twist to the frangipane—endless possibilities await!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your cherry bakewell tartlets turn out perfectly every time! Here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way:
- Handling the Pastry: When rolling out your shortcrust pastry, keep it chilled! If it gets too warm, it can become sticky and hard to work with. A quick pop in the fridge for 10 minutes can work wonders!
- Preventing Soggy Bottoms: To avoid any sogginess, make sure to blind bake the pastry for about 5 minutes before adding the frangipane filling. Just pop some baking beans or rice on top with parchment paper to hold it down.
- Getting the Right Consistency: When mixing the butter and sugar, beat it until it’s really light and fluffy—this adds air, which helps your tartlets rise beautifully!
- Don’t Overmix: When folding in the ground almonds, be gentle! Overmixing can lead to a denser filling, and we want that lovely light texture!
- Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your tartlets a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time. You’re looking for that lovely golden color and a slight firmness when you touch them.
- Cooling is Key: Let your tartlets cool in the pan for a bit before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to making cherry bakewell tartlets that are not just good, but absolutely fabulous! Happy baking!
Variations on Cherry Bakewell Tartlets
Now that you’ve mastered the classic cherry bakewell tartlets, let’s have some fun with variations! The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to different flavors and fruits. Here are some of my favorite twists to take these tartlets to the next level:
- Raspberry Delight: Swap out the cherries for fresh raspberries for a tangy, vibrant twist! The tartness of the raspberries pairs beautifully with the almond frangipane.
- Mixed Berry Medley: Use a mix of berries like blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. The colorful assortment not only looks stunning but creates a lovely burst of flavors!
- Peachy Keen: Diced fresh peaches or even canned peaches can give your tartlets a sweet, summery vibe. Just make sure to drain them well if using canned!
- Chocolate Almond: For the chocolate lovers, add some cocoa powder to the frangipane or fold in chocolate chips. You can even drizzle melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgence.
- Citrus Zing: Mix in some lemon or orange zest into the frangipane for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens everything up!
- Nutty Variations: Try using different nuts like hazelnuts or pistachios in place of the ground almonds. They each bring their own unique taste and texture!
- Spiced Apple: For a cozy fall version, add finely chopped apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon to the frangipane. It’s like a warm hug in tartlet form!
Feel free to experiment and mix and match these ideas based on what you have at home or what’s in season. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to try them out! Happy baking and creating!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, if you happen to have any cherry bakewell tartlets left (which is a big if, let’s be honest!), storing them properly is key to keeping those delightful flavors intact. Here’s how I do it:
- Storing: Allow the tartlets to cool completely after baking. Once they’re cool, pop them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature, but if you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to avoid sticking!
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy them again, I recommend reheating them in the oven for about 5-10 minutes at 160°C (320°F). This way, the pastry gets nice and crispy again, and the frangipane warms up beautifully. Just watch them closely so they don’t overbake!
- Microwave Option: In a pinch, you can use the microwave, but I’d advise against it if you want that lovely flaky texture. If you go this route, heat them for about 15-20 seconds on medium power. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t get soggy!
Trust me, these tartlets are best enjoyed fresh, but following these storage and reheating tips will ensure you can savor them a little longer! Enjoy every last crumb!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delightful cherry bakewell tartlets! While they’re definitely a treat, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per tartlet:
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
These values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, so think of them as a general guideline. Whether you’re counting calories or just enjoying a sweet treat, these tartlets are a delightful indulgence you won’t want to miss out on! Enjoy every bite, and savor the flavors without a worry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Alright, let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about these lovely cherry bakewell tartlets. I know you might have a few things on your mind, so I’m here to help!
Can I use a different type of fruit?
Absolutely! While cherries are traditional, you can swap them out for raspberries, blueberries, or even diced peaches. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if you’re using particularly tart fruits!
What can I substitute for ground almonds?
If you have a nut allergy or just want to mix things up, you can use ground hazelnuts or even sunflower seed meal as an alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious!
Do I have to use almond extract?
Not at all! If you’re not a fan of almond flavor, you can replace it with vanilla extract or even a hint of citrus zest for a refreshing twist!
How can I make these tartlets gluten-free?
You can easily make these tartlets gluten-free by using a gluten-free shortcrust pastry. Just check the labels to ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free, and you’re good to go!
What’s the best way to serve cherry bakewell tartlets?
I love serving them slightly warm with a dusting of icing sugar on top. They’re also fantastic with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Can I make the frangipane filling ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the frangipane filling a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before using it to ensure it’s nice and smooth.
How do I know when they are done baking?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. A little jiggle is okay, but they should not be overly wobbly!
Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident in making your own cherry bakewell tartlets. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
Imprimer
Cherry Bakewell Tartlets: 7 Irresistible Bites of Joy
- Temps Total: 45 minutes
- Rendement: 12 tartlets 1x
- Alimentation: Végétarien
Description
Cherry bakewell tartlets are small, sweet pastries filled with almond frangipane and topped with cherries.
Ingrédients
- 1 pack shortcrust pastry
- 100g ground almonds
- 100g butter
- 100g sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 12 cherries
- icing sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a muffin tin with it.
- In a bowl, cream the butter and sugar together.
- Add the eggs and almond extract to the mixture.
- Fold in the ground almonds.
- Fill each pastry case with the frangipane mixture.
- Top each tartlet with a cherry.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Let cool and dust with icing sugar before serving.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best eaten fresh but can be kept for 2-3 days.
- Feel free to use other fruits if desired.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 25 minutes
- Catégorie: Dessert
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: British
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 tartlet
- Calories: 200
- Sucre: 10g
- De Sodium: 50mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 5g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 25g
- La fibre: 1g
- La protéine: 3g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 50mg
Mots-clés: cherry bakewell tartlets, tartlets, cherry desserts, British desserts
