How to make Cherry Tart Recipe: A Symphony of Flavors and Elegance

Picture a dessert that combines buttery, flaky perfection with the juicy sweetness of cherries. This cherry tart recipe is the epitome of elegance, ideal for any special occasion, from New Year’s Eve celebrations to a summer garden party. Originating from France, tarts have long been a staple in patisserie, and this tart cherry recipe is a nod to that rich tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe promises a delightful baking experience and an even better tasting one!

Cherry Tart Recipe

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: FrenchDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

280

kcal

This elegant cherry tart recipe combines buttery, flaky pastry with a luscious tart cherry filling. Perfect for special occasions or as a treat for any dessert lover.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Cherry Filling
2 ½ cups tart cherries (fresh or frozen)
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Garnish
Powdered sugar for dusting
Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Directions

Prepare the Tart Crust
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a food processor, pulse together the flour, sugar, and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg yolk and cold water. Mix until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 15 minutes.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface and press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim excess dough and prick the base with a fork.
Line with parchment paper, fill with pie weights or dried beans, and blind-bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake for another 5 minutes.
Prepare the Cherry Filling
Combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Allow it to cool slightly.
Assemble and Bake
Pour the cherry filling into the pre-baked tart crust. Spread evenly.
Bake for 20 minutes until the filling bubbles and the crust is golden brown.
Cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar or serving with whipped cream.

Notes

Fresh cherries give the best flavor, but frozen or canned cherries can be used when fresh are unavailable.
Blind baking the crust ensures a crisp base that won’t get soggy.
Serve the tart warm or at room temperature for the best experience.

Tips for Perfect Cherry Tart

Room Temperature Ingredients for Filling:
Let your cherries reach room temperature for a smoother cooking process.
Handle the Dough with Care:
Overworking the dough can make the crust tough. Aim for gentle, quick handling.
Adjust Sweetness:
Depending on the tartness of your cherries, you may need to adjust the sugar in the filling.
Use a Tart Pan with a Removable Bottom:
It ensures easy removal and a professional finish.
Cool Before Slicing:
Patience pays off! Cooling allows the filling to set and makes slicing much easier.

Cherry Tart Recipe Variants

Almond Cherry Tart:
Add a layer of almond cream (frangipane) beneath the cherry filling for a nutty twist.
Chocolate Cherry Tart:
Brush the crust with melted dark chocolate before adding the cherry filling for a decadent touch.
Mini Cherry Tarts:
Use a muffin tin to create individual servings. Perfect for parties!
Gluten-Free Cherry Tart:
Substitute the crust with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version.
No-Bake Cherry Tart:
Use a graham cracker crust and refrigerate the tart instead of baking it.

Recipe Proposition

For another delightful dessert option, check out our Cherry Crumble Recipe! This rustic, fruit-forward treat is perfect for cozy family gatherings.

FAQs About Cherry Tart

Can I use canned cherries for this recipe?

Yes, canned cherries work well. Just ensure they are well-drained to avoid excess liquid in the filling.

How do I store leftover cherry tart?

Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the crust and filling separately, then assemble and bake the day you plan to serve it.

Can I freeze a baked cherry tart?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I substitute the tart cherries?

Other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches can be used for a similar tart recipe.

Nutrition Information

Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 20g

Health Benefits of Cherry Tart

Rich in Antioxidants: Cherries are packed with antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and boost overall health.
A Source of Energy: The balance of carbs and fats in the tart provides a quick energy boost.
Heart Health: Almond flour or nuts (if used) contain healthy fats that support heart health.
Mood Enhancer: Cherries are known to contain melatonin, which can improve sleep quality and overall mood.
Low-Guilt Dessert: With its fruit-forward filling, this tart is a lighter dessert option compared to heavy cream-based sweets.

Pairing Suggestions

Mascarpone Cream: Serve a dollop of lightly sweetened mascarpone cream for a creamy, tangy complement.
Chilled Rosé Wine: The fruity notes in rosé balance the tart cherry flavor beautifully.
Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle toasted almonds or slivered nuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
Cherry Sauce: Drizzle warm cherry sauce or compote over slices for an extra dose of cherry goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forgetting to Chill the Dough: Skipping this step can cause the crust to shrink and lose its shape during baking.
Ignoring Freshness: Using canned cherries instead of fresh or frozen may dilute the tart’s flavor. Opt for high-quality tart cherries whenever possible.
Overcooking the Filling: This can cause the cherries to lose their natural juiciness. Cook until just set.
Uneven Dough Rolling: Roll the dough evenly to ensure it bakes uniformly.
Skipping the Cooling Step: Cutting into the tart too soon can result in a messy presentation.

Baking Tools You’ll Need

Tart Pan with Removable Bottom: Ensures easy release and presentation of the tart.
Pastry Blender: Helps incorporate butter into the dough for a flaky crust.
Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the tart dough evenly.
Pastry Brush: Ideal for brushing egg wash on the crust for a golden finish.
Wire Rack: Cools the tart properly without trapping moisture.
Cherry Pitter: A time-saving tool for fresh cherries.

Fun Fact About the Recipe

Cherries have been symbols of love and beauty for centuries. In Japan, cherry blossoms signify renewal and hope. By baking a cherry tart, you’re channeling a piece of this universal love for cherries into a delightful dessert that celebrates both nature and artistry.

This cherry tart recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience of delicate flavors and textures. From the crisp buttery crust to the luscious tart cherry filling, it promises to enchant your taste buds and impress your guests. Perfect for special occasions or a casual weekend treat, this tart combines elegance with simplicity. Whether you follow the classic recipe or explore one of the variants, it’s sure to become a cherished addition to your baking repertoire.