Introduction
The Plum Lavender Tart is a delightful dessert that embodies the flavors of summer with its vibrant plums and subtle notes of lavender. This tart strikes a perfect balance between sweet and floral, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. The buttery crust complements the juicy filling, creating a luxurious experience for your palate. Let’s explore the detailed ingredients, preparation time, and overall yield for this stunning tart.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Shortcrust pastry
– 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– ¼ cup powdered sugar
– 1 large egg yolk
– 2 tablespoons ice water
– Filling
– 4 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
– ¼ cup sugar
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– For garnish
– Additional plums, sliced
– Fresh lavender sprigs
Prep Time
The preparation time for the Plum Lavender Tart is approximately 30 minutes. This includes the time to prepare the shortcrust pastry and mix the filling ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
– Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
– Yield: Serves 8-10 slices
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparing the Tart Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add chilled, cubed butter and use your fingers to crumble the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Rolling Out the Dough
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit your tart pan. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess overhang and chill the crust again for about 15 minutes.
Baking the Tart Crust
Line the chilled tart crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Allow it to cool completely.
Making the Plum Filling
In a saucepan, combine sliced plums, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the plums release their juices and become soft, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in lavender. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
Assembling the Tart
Pour the plum filling into the cooled tart crust, spreading it evenly.
Baking the Filled Tart
Return the assembled tart to the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the filling is bubbly and the edges are slightly caramelized.
Cooling and Serving
Let the tart cool to room temperature before slicing. Serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This tart pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Substitutions
You can substitute fresh lavender with dried lavender if fresh is not available. Adjust the quantity to taste, as dried lavender can be more potent.
Plum Variation
Feel free to mix different varieties of plums or even combine them with other fruits like peaches or cherries for a unique flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Creating the Tart Crust
The tart crust requires an ideal balance of buttery flavor and flaky texture. Cold butter should be cut into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs, then chilled to ensure a tender bite.
Preparing the Plum Filling
The plums should be pitted and sliced before being mixed with sugar and lavender. This allows the natural flavors to meld while the tart bakes.
Baking the Tart
Baking the tart at the right temperature is crucial for achieving a golden, crisp crust while ensuring the plums are perfectly cooked and juicy.
Chilling the Tart
Once baked, letting the tart cool before serving helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavor.
FAQ
Can I use different types of fruit for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute plums with other fruits like peaches or cherries, but adjust the sugar according to their sweetness.
Is it necessary to use lavender?
While lavender adds a unique flavor, you may omit it if you prefer a more traditional tart taste.
How long can I store the tart?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze the tart. Wrap it tightly and store it in an airtight container for up to a month.
What can I serve with the tart?
The tart pairs beautifully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.
Conclusion
The Plum Lavender Tart is a delightful combination of flavors that showcases the uniqueness of plums and the aromatic notes of lavender. This dessert not only pleases the taste buds but also tantalizes the senses with its beautiful presentation. It’s a perfect choice for special occasions, and with its delicate balance of sweetness and floral notes, it is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
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