Introduction to Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream
There’s something magical about a dessert that combines elegance and simplicity, and the Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is just that. This delightful treat is perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply indulging yourself after a long day. With its buttery tart shell, creamy custard, and fresh strawberries, it’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for those busy evenings when you want to create something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream
This Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is a game-changer for dessert lovers. It’s quick to prepare, taking just under two hours from start to finish, yet it tastes like a gourmet treat. The combination of fresh strawberries and delicate rose water creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and indulgent. Plus, the creamy custard adds a luxurious touch, making it a dessert that’s sure to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients for Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The foundation of your tart shell, providing structure and a tender crumb.
Unsalted butter: Chilled and diced, it adds richness and flakiness to the crust.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the tart shell and custard, enhancing the overall flavor.
Egg yolk: This adds richness and helps bind the dough together.
Cold water: Used to bring the dough together without warming the butter.
Whole milk: The base for your creamy custard, providing a rich and smooth texture.
Cornstarch: Thickens the custard, giving it that luscious consistency.
Egg yolks: Essential for the custard, they add creaminess and depth of flavor.
Vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that complements the custard beautifully.
Unsalted butter: Stirred in at the end of the custard-making process for extra richness.
Fresh strawberries: The star of the show, adding sweetness and a pop of color.
Rose water: A delicate floral note that elevates the tart to a whole new level.
Fresh mint leaves: Optional, but they add a refreshing touch when garnishing.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients; for instance, you can swap strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a delightful twist!
How to Make Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream
Creating a Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is a delightful journey that combines technique with creativity. Follow these steps, and you’ll be well on your way to impressing everyone at the table.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your tart shell bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden-brown color. A hot oven helps the butter in the dough to melt quickly, creating a flaky texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Tart Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and granulated sugar. Add the chilled, diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You want to see small bits of butter throughout; this is what makes the crust flaky. Then, stir in the egg yolk and just enough cold water to form a dough. It should feel soft but not sticky.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling is essential because it firms up the butter, which helps the tart hold its shape while baking. Plus, it makes rolling out the dough much easier!
Step 4: Roll and Bake the Tart Shell
Once chilled, roll out the dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling, then bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the custard.
Step 5: Make the Custard Cream
In a saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it’s just simmering. Meanwhile, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a separate bowl. Gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to avoid scrambling the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter for that creamy finish.
Step 6: Assemble the Tart
Once the tart shell is cool, spread the custard cream evenly over the bottom. Take your fresh strawberries and arrange them beautifully on top. Drizzle with rose water for that floral touch. This is where you can get creative—make it look as stunning as it tastes!
Step 7: Chill Before Serving
Finally, chill the assembled tart in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step is key for allowing the flavors to meld and the custard to set properly. When you’re ready to serve, garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Tips for Success
Use chilled ingredients for the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for the tart’s structure.
When rolling out the dough, keep your surface and rolling pin floured to prevent sticking.
For a smoother custard, strain it before pouring into the tart shell.
Experiment with different fruits or extracts to customize your tart!
Equipment Needed
Tart pan: A 9-inch tart pan is ideal, but a pie dish works too.
Mixing bowls: Use a large bowl for the dough and a smaller one for the custard.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for mixing the custard smoothly.
Rolling pin: If you don’t have one, a wine bottle can do the trick!
Plastic wrap: Handy for chilling the dough.
Variations
For a nutty twist, add ground almonds to the tart dough for extra flavor and texture.
Swap out strawberries for seasonal fruits like peaches or cherries for a different taste experience.
Try using coconut milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free custard option.
Add a splash of orange or lemon zest to the custard for a citrusy kick.
For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the tart with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Complement with a light herbal tea or sparkling water to cleanse the palate.
Garnish with additional mint leaves for a fresh presentation.
FAQs about Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream
Curious about the Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream? Here are some common questions that might pop up as you embark on this delicious journey.
Can I make the tart shell ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tart shell a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature until you’re ready to fill it with custard and strawberries.
What can I substitute for rose water?
If rose water isn’t your thing, you can use orange blossom water for a similar floral note. Alternatively, a splash of vanilla extract can work in a pinch, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.
How long will the tart last in the fridge?
The Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just keep it covered to maintain its freshness.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are ideal for this tart, you can use frozen ones if necessary. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your tart.
Is this tart suitable for special diets?
This dessert is vegetarian-friendly, but if you need a gluten-free option, simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use dairy-free milk for the custard to accommodate lactose intolerance.
Final Thoughts
Creating a Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is more than just baking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The vibrant colors and delicate flavors come together to create a dessert that feels special, whether it’s for a family gathering or a quiet evening at home. Each slice offers a delightful balance of sweetness and floral notes, making it a memorable treat. Plus, the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they savor each bite? That’s the real reward. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this culinary adventure—you won’t regret it!
A delightful dessert featuring a buttery tart shell filled with creamy custard and topped with fresh strawberries and a hint of rose water.
Ingredients
Scale
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2–4 tablespoons cold water
1 cup whole milk
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 large egg yolks
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon rose water
Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim the edges.
Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.
In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until just simmering.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Gradually add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and butter. Let cool slightly.
Once the tart shell is cool, spread the custard cream evenly over the bottom.
Arrange the sliced strawberries on top and drizzle with rose water.
Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract to the custard.
You can substitute the strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different twist.
