Introduction
There’s something truly special about a tart that combines seasonal flavors with a touch of elegance. This Cranberry Orange Curd Tart is the perfect dessert for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy dinners at home. The buttery crust cradles a luscious filling that bursts with the tartness of fresh cranberries and the zesty brightness of orange. It’s a delightful balance of sweet and tart, making each bite a memorable experience that will leave your friends and family asking for more!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 3 tablespoons ice water
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, giving it a delightful crumbly texture.
- Add the egg yolk and ice water to the mixture. Pulse again until the dough comes together, forming a beautiful ball of crust.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and carefully press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim off any excess dough to create an even edge.
- Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling and chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Once chilled, bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until it turns a lovely golden brown. Let it cool on a wire rack.
- In a saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, fresh orange juice, and orange zest. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst, releasing their juicy goodness, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the mixture from heat and strain it, pressing the cranberries to extract as much liquid as possible for a smooth filling.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs. Gradually add the strained cranberry juice mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until it thickens to a rich, creamy consistency, about 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and whisk in the cubed butter until it melts completely, leaving you with a silky filling.
- Pour the vibrant cranberry orange curd into the cooled tart shell, filling it generously.
- Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to substitute the cranberries with blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile!
- Make sure the butter for the crust is cold; this helps achieve that flaky, tender texture.
- If you want extra flair, garnish the tart with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or some whipped cream before serving.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe encompasses several wonderful cooking techniques. The dough is made using the pastry method, which involves cutting cold butter into dry ingredients for a flaky crust. The curd is created using a gentle cooking method that allows the eggs to thicken without scrambling, resulting in a beautifully smooth filling. Straining the mixture is also key to eliminating any solids, leaving you with pure, flavorful curd.
FAQ
- Can I make this tart ahead of time? Yes! This tart can be made a day or two in advance, making it a perfect option for holiday gatherings.
- How do I store leftovers? Keep any leftover tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving again.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Curd Tart is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and a great way to brighten up any meal. With its crunchy, buttery crust and smooth, tangy filling, it’s sure to be a showstopper at your next gathering. So, gather your friends and family, slice up this tart, and enjoy the burst of flavor that each bite brings!