Cherry Tart Recipe

Indulge in a mouthwatering cherry tart with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a sweet treat, this cherry tart will not disappoint. Utilizing fresh cherries or high-quality canned cherries, this dessert is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons ice water
4 cups fresh or pitted canned cherries
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for the filling)
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Crust Preparation

Making the perfect cherry tart starts with a flawless tart crust. Follow these steps to create a deliciously flaky base for your tart.

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt.
Add in the chilled and diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix in the egg yolk and gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough out to fit your tart pan, typically about 9 inches in diameter.
Carefully transfer the dough to the tart pan and press it into the edges. Trim any excess dough.
Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Cover with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden. Remove the weights and paper, and allow the crust to cool completely.

Cherry Filling

The key to a delicious cherry tart filling lies in the balance of sweetness and tartness. Here’s how you can achieve the perfect cherry filling:

If using fresh cherries, ensure they are pitted and cleaned. If using canned cherries, drain them well.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cherries with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.
Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the cherries to release their juices and the flavors to merge.
Pour the filling into the pre-baked tart crust, spreading it evenly.

Baking the Cherry Tart

After preparing the crust and filling, all that's left is to bake your cherry tart to perfection. Follow these steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

Once your cherry tart has cooled, it's ready to be served. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your dessert experience:

Dust the tart with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Pair with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine to complement the flavors.