Cherry and Almond Tart Recipe

This cherry and almond tart is a delightful dessert combining the sweet and tart flavors of cherries with the rich, nutty taste of almonds. Perfect for any occasion, this tart is sure to impress with its beautiful presentation and delicious taste.

Ingredients:

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Almond Filling:

• 1 cup (100g) almond flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cherry Topping:

• 2 cups fresh or frozen cherries, pitted (if using frozen, thaw and drain them)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Garnish (optional):

• Sliced almonds
• Powdered sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tart Crust:
   • In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse a few times to mix.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add the egg yolk and pulse a few times.
   • Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough starts to come together.
   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Almond Filling:
   • In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the almond flour, almond extract, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
3. Prepare the Cherry Topping:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice.
   • Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and the cherries are soft. This should take about 5-10 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and let cool.
4. Assemble the Tart:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled tart dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
   • Spread the almond filling evenly over the tart crust.
   • Spoon the cherry mixture over the almond filling, spreading it out evenly.
5. Bake the Tart:
   • Place the tart on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
   • If using, sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the tart during the last 10 minutes of baking.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack.
   • Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Tips:

• Cherries: If fresh cherries are not in season, frozen cherries work just as well. Make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
• Almond Flour: For a richer almond flavor, toast the almond flour lightly in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, then let it cool before using.
• Storage: Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This cherry and almond tart is a delightful and impressive dessert that combines the best of fruit and nut flavors. With a buttery crust, rich almond filling, and sweet-tart cherry topping, it’s perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat anytime. Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious tart with family and friends!