Fresh Fruit Tart

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Introduction:
Delight in the vibrant colors and flavors of the season with this Fresh Fruit Tart. This elegant dessert features a crisp pastry shell filled with a luscious vanilla pastry cream and topped with a colorful array of fresh fruits. Perfect for any occasion, from brunch gatherings to afternoon tea, this fruit tart is as beautiful as it is delicious, showcasing the natural sweetness of ripe fruits in every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Tart Shell:

  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the Vanilla Pastry Cream:

  • 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup (30g) cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

  • Assorted fresh fruits (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, and grapes), washed and sliced as needed
  • Apricot jam or fruit glaze for brushing (optional)

Optional Additions:

  • Lemon zest or orange zest for flavoring the pastry cream
  • Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tart Shell:

  • In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse a few times to mix.
  • Add the cold cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Add the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Pulse until the dough comes together. If needed, add an additional tablespoon of water, a little at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
  • Flatten the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 1/8 inch (3 mm) thick. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan with a removable bottom, pressing it into the bottom and sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough.
  • Prick the bottom of the tart shell with a fork. Line the shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and weights, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Allow the crust to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Vanilla Pastry Cream:

  • In a saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
  • Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
  • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbling.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator until completely cold.

3. Assemble the Fruit Tart:

  • Once the tart shell and pastry cream are completely cooled, spread the pastry cream evenly into the cooled tart shell.
  • Arrange the sliced fresh fruits decoratively on top of the pastry cream.
  • If desired, heat apricot jam or fruit glaze in a small saucepan until melted, then brush it over the fruit to give it a shiny finish.
  • Garnish the tart with mint leaves, if using.

4. Serve:

  • Slice the Fresh Fruit Tart and serve it chilled. Enjoy the refreshing combination of creamy vanilla pastry cream and juicy fresh fruits!

Tips for Success:

  • Make sure the tart shell is completely cooled before filling it with the pastry cream and fruits to prevent the cream from melting.
  • Use a variety of colorful and flavorful fruits for a stunning presentation.
  • For a glossy finish, brush melted apricot jam or fruit glaze over the fresh fruits.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (based on 8 servings)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 12-15g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 7-9g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 100-120mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 50-70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
  • Sugars: Approximately 20-25g
  • Protein: Approximately 4-6g

Recommendation:
This Fresh Fruit Tart is a stunning dessert that is perfect for any special occasion. Serve it as a sweet ending to a dinner party or enjoy it as a refreshing treat on a warm day. With its buttery tart shell, creamy vanilla pastry cream, and colorful array of fresh fruits, this tart is sure to impress both visually and gastronomically.

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