SUMMER BERRY TART

Summer Berry Tart is a stunning and refreshing dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh, seasonal berries atop a creamy custard filling, all nestled in a buttery, crisp tart crust. This tart is the perfect way to celebrate summer’s bounty, combining the sweetness of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries with the richness of the custard. Light yet indulgent, this dessert is ideal for garden parties, barbecues, or any occasion where you want to impress with a beautiful, fruit-filled treat.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the custard filling:

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the topping:

• 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
• 1 tablespoon apricot jam (optional, for glazing)
• 1 tablespoon water (optional, for glazing)

Instructions:

1. Make the tart crust:
   • In a food processor or large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse (or cut in with a pastry cutter) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Bake the crust:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim the edges, then poke the bottom of the crust with a fork.
   • Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 10 minutes until the crust is golden. Let it cool completely.
3. Prepare the custard filling:
   • In a saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until just simmering. In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
   • Slowly pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, whisking continuously, until the custard thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Pour the custard into the cooled tart crust and refrigerate until set, about 1 hour.
4. Assemble the tart:
   • Arrange the fresh berries on top of the chilled custard in any design you prefer. For a glossy finish, warm the apricot jam and water in a small saucepan, then brush the glaze over the berries.
5. Serve:
   • Refrigerate the tart until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy the beautiful summer flavors!

This Summer Berry Tart is a refreshing, elegant dessert that’s perfect for celebrating the season with its burst of fruity flavor!