Milk Tart, or “Melktert” in Afrikaans, is a South African dessert characterized by its creamy, custard-like filling made from milk, eggs, sugar, and a hint of vanilla, encased in a sweet pastry crust or sometimes a more biscuit-like base. This tart is traditionally finished with a sprinkling of cinnamon on top, which perfectly complements the delicate sweetness of the milky filling. The dessert is renowned for its smooth texture and comforting, mild flavor, making it a favorite in South African households and a delightful end to any meal.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 egg yolk
- 1-2 tablespoons cold water
- For the filling:
- 2 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- Cinnamon for dusting
Instructions:
- Prepare the crust: Mix flour and powdered sugar, blend in butter, add egg yolk and water to form dough. Press into a pie dish.
- Bake crust: Pre-bake at 350°F (175°C) until slightly golden.
- Make the filling: Heat milk to just below boiling. Mix sugar, flour, cornstarch, and eggs; temper with hot milk, return to heat, and cook until thick. Stir in vanilla.
- Fill and bake: Pour the custard into the crust, bake at 325°F (165°C) for 25 minutes.
- Finish: Dust with cinnamon, cool to set.
Enjoy this classic Milk Tart as a sublime treat that offers a taste of South African culinary heritage.
