Treacle Tart is a beloved British dessert, famously mentioned in the Harry Potter series and cherished in tea rooms and homes across the UK. This classic tart features a sticky filling made from golden syrup, which is a light treacle, mixed with breadcrumbs and lemon juice or zest to cut through the sweetness. Encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry, the tart is baked until golden and served warm, often with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the rich, sweet filling and the crisp, flaky pastry makes Treacle Tart a comforting and nostalgic treat perfect for any gathering or a cozy night in.
Recipe: Treacle Tart
Ingredients:
- For the pastry:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
- For the filling:
- 1 1/2 cups golden syrup
- 2 cups fresh breadcrumbs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and rub into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
- Roll Out the Pastry:
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pastry to fit the tart pan. Gently press the pastry into the pan and trim the edges. Prick the base with a fork.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a saucepan, gently heat the golden syrup until it becomes runny. Remove from heat and stir in the breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
- Assemble the Tart:
- Pour the filling into the pastry shell, spreading it evenly.
- Bake the Tart:
- Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the pastry is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the tart to cool slightly before removing it from the tart pan. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of clotted cream or ice cream.
Treacle Tart is wonderfully sweet with a unique texture that comes from the breadcrumbs, which absorb the golden syrup and create a filling that is both soft and slightly chewy. This dessert is a celebration of simple, comforting flavors that have been enjoyed for generations.
