Berry Tart with Meringue

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Introduction:
A berry tart with meringue is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of fresh berries with the light and airy texture of meringue, all nestled in a buttery tart crust. This elegant and colorful dessert is perfect for showcasing the vibrant flavors of seasonal berries and impressing guests at any gathering. With its balance of tartness, sweetness, and crunch, it’s sure to become a showstopper on your dessert table.

Ingredients:

For the Tart Crust:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1-2 tablespoons ice water

For the Berry Filling:

  • 3 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Meringue:

  • 3 large egg whites, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

For the Tart Crust:

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, cold cubed butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add Egg Yolk: Add the egg yolk and pulse again until the dough starts to come together. If the dough seems too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms into a ball.
  3. Chill the Dough: Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
  4. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit into a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough.
  5. Pre-bake the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the parchment paper and weights, and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

For the Berry Filling:

  1. Prepare Berries: Wash and dry the mixed berries. If using strawberries, hull and slice them.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, gently toss the berries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
  3. Assemble Tart: Arrange the berry mixture evenly over the cooled tart crust.

For the Meringue:

  1. Prepare Meringue: In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form.
  2. Gradually Add Sugar: Gradually add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form. Fold in the vanilla extract.
  3. Top Tart with Meringue: Spoon the meringue over the berry-filled tart, spreading it evenly and creating decorative peaks with the back of a spoon.
  4. Bake Meringue: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the tart under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the meringue is lightly golden brown on top. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
  5. Chill and Serve: Let the tart cool slightly, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the meringue to set. Slice and serve chilled.

Tips:

  • Be sure to use cold butter when making the tart crust to achieve a flaky texture.
  • You can use any combination of fresh berries you like for the filling, depending on what’s in season and your personal preference.
  • When beating the egg whites for the meringue, make sure the mixing bowl and beaters are clean and free of any grease to ensure proper whipping.

Description:
A berry tart with meringue is a stunning dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of fresh berries with the airy elegance of meringue, all nestled in a tender, buttery tart crust. Each bite is a delightful contrast of flavors and textures, with the tartness of the berries complemented by the light sweetness of the meringue and the crispness of the crust. Whether served at a fancy dinner party or enjoyed as a special treat at home, this berry tart is sure to impress.

Nutritional Information:
(Per serving – 1/8 of the tart)

  • Calories: 280
  • Total Fat: 11g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 95mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 24g
  • Protein: 4g

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

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