Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a Mixed Berry Tart with Custard. It’s a dish that brings together the tangy sweetness of fresh berries, the creamy indulgence of custard, and the buttery flakiness of a well-baked tart shell. When I first tried this recipe, it was a hit with my family. The vibrant colors of the berries were inviting, and the aroma of the freshly baked tart filled the kitchen with warmth and comfort. As we gathered around, each bite was met with a chorus of “mmm’s” and requests for seconds. It’s a dessert that not only pleases the palate but also brings joy to the table.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Mixed Berry Tart with Custard, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
• ½ cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• ¼ cup of granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon of salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons of ice water
• 1 cup of whole milk
• ½ cup of heavy cream
• ⅓ cup of granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 cup of fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• ½ cup of fresh blueberries
• ½ cup of fresh raspberries
• Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Mixed Berry Tart:

1. Prepare the Tart Shell: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat and Roll: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim the edges. Prick the base with a fork.
3. Bake the Shell: Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden. Let cool.
4. Make the Custard: In a saucepan, heat the milk and cream until just simmering. In a bowl, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Return to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Assemble the Tart: Pour the custard into the cooled tart shell, smoothing the top with a spatula. Arrange the strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries on top of the custard.
6. Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves 8, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories.

Preparation Time

Total preparation time for this Mixed Berry Tart with Custard is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which includes chilling and baking time.

How to Serve

• Serve the tart chilled for a refreshing dessert option.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added decadence.
• Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Accompany with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
• Perfect for brunches, afternoon teas, or after-dinner treats.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Mixed Berry Tart with Custard turns out perfectly:

1. Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill your tart dough adequately before rolling it out. This prevents shrinking during baking and ensures a crisp, flaky crust.
2. Custard Consistency: Stir continuously while cooking the custard to avoid lumps and achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
3. Berry Selection: Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor. You can also mix and match different types of berries according to your preference.
4. Prevent Sogginess: Ensure the tart shell is completely cooled before adding the custard to prevent it from becoming soggy.
5. Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, and enjoy within two days for optimal freshness.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Mixed Berry Tart with Custard:

1. Can I use frozen berries? Yes, you can use frozen berries if fresh ones are not available. Thaw and drain them well before using to prevent excess moisture.
2. Can I make the tart shell ahead of time? Absolutely! You can make the tart shell a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature.
3. Is there a substitute for cornstarch? If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use an equal amount of all-purpose flour as a thickening agent for the custard.
4. How long can I store the tart? The tart is best consumed within two days when stored in the refrigerator. Keep it covered to maintain freshness.
5. Can I add other fruits? Feel free to get creative with the fruit toppings! Sliced kiwi, peaches, or mangoes can add a delightful twist to your tart.