Description
This Apricot Almond Tart is a delightful dessert featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with a luscious apricot custard and topped with toasted almonds for a crunchy finish. Perfect for a summer gathering or an elegant afternoon treat, this tart combines fresh fruit with a sweet, creamy filling that bakes to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ tsp salt
Filling
- 4 large eggs
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh apricots (sliced)
Topping
- ½ cup sliced almonds (toasted)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the tart.
- Make the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ¼ cup of sugar, and salt. Cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs, forming the base for the tart crust.
- Chill Dough: Form the dough into a ball, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up the dough for easier handling.
- Prepare Apricots: While the dough chills, wash and slice the fresh apricots into wedges, readying them for the filling.
- Roll out Dough: On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough to fit your tart pan. Gently press the dough into the bottom and sides of the pan, creating an even layer for the crust.
- Mix Filling: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining ¼ cup sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. Fold in the sliced apricots carefully to distribute them evenly.
- Assemble Tart: Pour the apricot and egg mixture into the prepared tart crust, ensuring the fruit is spread out evenly.
- Bake: Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden, indicating that the tart is cooked through.
- Cool and Garnish: Allow the tart to cool completely before removing from the pan. Garnish the top with toasted sliced almonds for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is crucial to prevent shrinkage during baking and to achieve a flaky crust.
- To toast almonds, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Fresh apricots work best, but canned or frozen apricots may be used if fresh are unavailable, adjusting sugar as needed.
- Ensure the tart is cooled completely so the filling can set properly before serving.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
