Manchester Tart

Introduction

Manchester Tart is the ultimate dessert treat that brings a slice of nostalgia to any table! 🍰✨ This charming little tart is bursting with flavors and textures, from the buttery pastry to the creamy custard, all topped off with sweet raspberry jam and a sprinkle of coconut. Trust me; your taste buds are going to thank you for this one! Let’s dive into the delightful world of Manchester Tart with this simple and scrumptious recipe!

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Plain flour – 200g

Chilled butter – 100g 🧈

Cold water – 2-3 tablespoons

A pinch of salt

Raspberry jam – 4 tablespoons 🍇

Whole milk – 500ml 🥛

Egg yolks – 3

Caster sugar – 50g

Cornflour – 2 tablespoons

Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon

Desiccated coconut – 3 tablespoons 🌴

Glacé cherries for a pop of color 🍒

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french

Cuisson : 20 minutes

Temps total : 2 heures 35 minutes

Rendement : Pour 8 personnes

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated! Set it to 180C for a fan oven or 200C for a conventional one. Oh, and don’t forget to grease a 23cm tart tin with a little butter.

Prepare the Pastry

Now for the pastry magic! In a bowl, combine the chilled butter, plain flour, and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers to mix them together until it resembles fine crumbs. Gradually add in the cold water, just a tablespoon at a time, mixing until a lovely dough forms.

Chill the Dough

Wrap that gorgeous dough in cling film and pop it in the fridge for about 15 minutes to chill.

Roll Out the Dough

Time to roll out the dough! On a floured surface, roll it out until it’s nice and thin. Line your tart tin with this beautiful pastry, and don’t forget to prick the bottom with a fork. This helps prevent any bubbling! Line it with baking parchment and fill it with baking beans or rice to keep its shape.

Bake the Tart Base

Bake the tart base for 15 minutes, then carefully remove the beans and parchment and bake for another 5 minutes until it’s gloriously golden. Let it cool completely – the anticipation is half the fun!

Spread the Raspberry Jam

Once the pastry is cooled, spread that delicious raspberry jam evenly over the base. Mmm, can you smell it?

Prepare the Custard

Now for the custard! Gently heat the milk in a saucepan until it’s warm but not boiling. While that’s warming, whisk together the egg yolks, caster sugar, cornflour, and vanilla extract in another bowl until it’s beautifully smooth.

Combine Milk and Egg Mixture

Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously (this is where the magic happens!). Pour it all back into the saucepan and heat gently, stirring constantly until it thickens – it should be so creamy! Let it cool slightly before pouring it over the raspberry jam in the tart case. Smoother than a jazz saxophonist!

Finish the Tart

Sprinkle the desiccated coconut evenly over the top—such a lovely texture. And don’t forget to add those charming glacé cherries, spacing them perfectly around for that beautiful finish.

Chill the Tart

Pop the tart in the fridge for at least 2 hours to set up nicely before slicing it up and serving. Trust me; it’s going to be a hit at any gathering!

Notes

Ingredient Temperature

Make sure the butter is chilled for the pastry to achieve that ideal crumbly texture.

Cooling Time

Allow the pastry to cool completely before spreading the jam to ensure it doesn’t melt.

Setting Time

Chilling the tart for at least 2 hours helps the custard to firm up for the best slicing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled for a refreshing treat, perfect for any occasion!

Cook Techniques

Making Pastry

When making pastry, it’s essential to work quickly with chilled ingredients to keep the butter cold. This results in a flakier texture.

Rolling Out Dough

Always roll out dough on a floured surface to prevent sticking. Aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.

Blind Baking

To blind bake, line your pastry with parchment and use baking beans or rice to maintain its shape. This prevents the pastry from puffing up.

Creating a Custard

When making custard, gradually combine warm milk with the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs. Stir constantly to achieve a smooth consistency.

Chilling the Tart

Chilling the tart after assembling is crucial for setting the custard properly. It enhances the flavors and makes for easier slicing.

FAQ

Can I use a different jam instead of raspberry?

Yes, feel free to experiment with other fruit jams like strawberry or apricot for a different flavor profile.

How can I make the pastry dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like margarine or coconut oil.

What can I use instead of egg yolks for a vegan version?

Try using silken tofu blended until smooth or a commercial egg replacer for the custard.

How long can I keep the Manchester Tart in the fridge?

The tart can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a lovely make-ahead dessert.

Can I freeze Manchester Tart?

Yes, you can freeze the tart but it’s best to freeze it before adding the coconut and glacé cherries. Just thaw it in the fridge before serving.

Conclusion

Manchester Tart is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful journey back to cherished memories with every bite. The harmonious blend of buttery pastry, luscious custard, and tangy raspberry jam makes it a beloved treat that will please everyone at your table. It’s a conversation starter, a crowd-pleaser, and an indulgence you absolutely deserve!

Chocolate Manchester Tart

Elevate your tart by adding a layer of rich chocolate ganache before the custard. The combination of chocolate and raspberry will tantalize your taste buds!

Fruit-Infused Manchester Tart

Experiment with different jams, such as apricot or strawberry, to introduce new fruity flavors. This twist is perfect for seasonal variations!

Coconut Lime Manchester Tart

Add zest from limes to the custard and top with toasted coconut for a tropical twist that beautifully complements the creamy base.

Almond Manchester Tart

Incorporate almond extract into the custard for a nutty flavor, and add slivered almonds on top for a delightful crunch.

Mini Manchester Tarts

Make individual tarts using a muffin tin for a charming dessert option at gatherings. Perfect for portion control and added presentation flair!