These Homemade Cherry Tarts Are Sure to Sweeten Your Day

Previous Next

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (14.1 ounce) package refrigerated pie crusts
• 1 pound fresh sweet cherries, pitted
• 2 tablespoons minute tapioca
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 cup whipped cream, or as needed (optional)
• Grated chocolate as needed for garnish (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Begin by gathering all your ingredients, ensuring everything is ready to go for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Place the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Roll out each crust with a rolling pin until it's large enough to cut out three 5 to 5-1/2-inch circles, resulting in a total of 6 tart crusts.

Step 3: Fit each dough circle into a 4-inch removable-bottom tart pan. Gently press the dough against the sides of the pans and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Trim any excess dough by running the rolling pin across the top of each pan.

Step 4: Refrigerate the tart crusts until well chilled, approximately 45 minutes. Keep them refrigerated until you're ready to use them.

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherries, tapioca, sugar, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Remove the tart pans from the refrigerator. Evenly distribute the cherry mixture among the tart pans. Place the pans on a baking sheet for easy handling.

Step 7: Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cherries have softened and the crust is golden brown.

Step 8: Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool. Optionally, serve with a dollop of whipped cream and garnish with grated chocolate.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	476
Total Fat	17g (22% DV)
Saturated Fat	6g (32% DV)
Cholesterol	0mg (0% DV)
Sodium	293mg (13% DV)
Total Carbohydrate	79g (29% DV)
Dietary Fiber	3g (11% DV)
Total Sugars	22g
Protein	3g (6% DV)
Vitamin C	5mg (6% DV)
Calcium	22mg (2% DV)
Iron	1mg (8% DV)
Potassium	220mg (5% DV)

*Percent Daily Values (DV) are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Fascinating Story Behind Cherry Tarts

Cherry tarts have a rich culinary history that traces back to medieval Europe, where fruit-filled pastries were a symbol of wealth and celebration. The combination of buttery crust and tart-sweet cherries made these desserts popular among both aristocrats and common folk. Over time, cherry tarts evolved from simple rustic pies into refined pastries, often enhanced with almond extract or other flavorings to highlight the cherries natural sweetness.

Regional Variations and Distinctive Features

Across Europe, cherry tarts display unique regional characteristics. In France, the tarte aux cerises typically features a single, open-faced layer of cherries glazed with apricot jam, emphasizing elegance and simplicity. In Germany, the Kirschkuchen often includes a layer of sponge cake beneath the cherries, creating a softer texture. Meanwhile, American versions, like the one in this recipe, tend to balance sweet and tart flavors with a flaky, buttery crust and a hint of almond extract, making them slightly more indulgent than their European counterparts.

How Cherry Tarts Differ From Similar Desserts

Cherry tarts are often confused with cherry pies or clafoutis, but the differences are significant. Unlike pies, tarts have a shallower crust and are usually open-faced, allowing the cherries to remain the visual and flavor centerpiece. Unlike clafoutis, which has a custard-like batter baked with fruit, tarts rely on a crisp, buttery base with a juicy cherry filling, offering a contrasting texture between crust and fruit.

Typical Occasions and Serving Traditions

Cherry tarts are versatile desserts served at a variety of occasions, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations. They are often presented with a dollop of whipped cream or a light dusting of powdered sugar and can be enjoyed either warm, directly from the oven, or chilled, allowing the flavors to meld. In restaurants and cafes, cherry tarts are frequently offered as a signature seasonal dessert during cherry harvest season, highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Interesting Facts About Cherry Tarts

• Cherries used in traditional tarts were originally sour varieties, prized for their bold flavor and resistance to over-sweetening.
• The addition of almond extract in many recipes is inspired by the natural almond-like taste of cherry pits, a flavor combination cherished in European baking.
• Miniature cherry tarts, like those made in individual tart pans, gained popularity in the 19th century as a refined alternative for afternoon tea and dessert buffets.
• Cherry tarts are often associated with good luck and prosperity in some cultures, making them a traditional choice for celebratory meals.
• Modern adaptations include gluten-free crusts or alternative sweeteners, demonstrating the desserts enduring flexibility and appeal.

FAQ about These Homemade Cherry Tarts Are Sure to Sweeten Your Day

Comments