Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe is a delightful dessert that showcases the perfect blend of flavors and textures. With a flaky shortbread crust and silky vegan custard, this treat is sure to impress at any gathering. The creamy custard, reminiscent of panna cotta, is infused with vanilla and cinnamon, while fresh wild berries add a burst of freshness. Ideal for celebrations or simply as a sweet indulgence, these tarts are both beautiful and simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of vanilla custard and wild berries creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Presentation: These tarts are visually stunning, making them great for special occasions or casual get-togethers.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Made entirely from plant-based ingredients, these tarts cater to vegan diets without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out wild berries for your favorite fruits or adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Tart pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick (for bubble popping)

Importance of Each Tool

• Tart pan: This is crucial for shaping your tarts perfectly. A non-stick tart pan ensures easy removal after baking.
• Electric mixer: Using an electric mixer saves time and helps achieve a light and fluffy texture in your crust.
• Saucepan: A good saucepan allows even heating, which is necessary when cooking your custard filling.

Ingredients

For this Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe, gather the following ingredients:

For the Crust

• 120 grams vegan butter at room temperature (½ cup)
• 25 grams powdered sugar (¼ cup)
• 125 grams unbleached all-purpose flour (1 cup)

For the Custard Filling

• 40 grams vanilla pudding powder, eg. dr. Oetker or jell-o cook & serve (4 tbsp)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (7g)
• 400 milliliters plant-based milk, eg. almond milk (1 ¾ cups)
• 1 tablespoon agar-agar flakes (2g)
• 1-2 tablespoons cane sugar (15-30g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Topping

• Wild berries
• Some powdered sugar (optional)

How to Make Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F / 180°C.

Step 2: Make the Shortbread Crust

1. Lightly grease your tart pan using canola oil or nondairy butter.
2. In a mixing bowl with an electric mixer, cream the vegan butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the unbleached all-purpose flour, beating until the dough just comes together; it’s okay if it’s still slightly crumbly.
4. Press one to two tablespoons of dough into the bottom of each prepared tart pan until filled.
5. Using a fork, gently prick the dough several times.
6. Bake for about 20 minutes or until lightly browned. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Custard Filling

1. In a bowl, mix 4 tablespoons of plant-based milk, vanilla pudding powder, and cornstarch. Whisk until combined.
2. Add the remaining plant-based milk, whisking again until smooth.
3. Stir in the agar-agar flakes, optional cane sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix well.

Step 4: Cook the Custard Mixture

1. Pour the mixture into a saucepan over medium heat while constantly stirring.
2. Bring it to a boil; once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for about 5-6 minutes until it thickens.
3. Remove from heat and transfer to a measuring cup for easy pouring.

Step 5: Fill the Tarts

1. Stir the custard mixture before filling each tart shell evenly.
2. Ensure there are no air bubbles by tapping gently on the countertop or using a toothpick.

Step 6: Serve Your Tarts

Allow your tarts to cool completely at room temperature before serving them topped with fresh wild berries. Optionally sprinkle with some powdered sugar before enjoying!

How to Serve Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

These Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard are not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can elevate your presentation and flavor by adding various toppings and accompaniments. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dessert experience.

Fresh Berries

• Include a mix of wild berries like raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries for a vibrant touch. Their natural sweetness complements the creamy custard perfectly.

Mint Leaves

• Garnish each tart with fresh mint leaves. This adds a refreshing aroma and enhances the visual appeal of your dessert.

Citrus Zest

• Sprinkle some lemon or orange zest over the tarts for an extra zing. The citrus notes brighten up the flavors and offer a beautiful contrast to the custard.

Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup can add sweetness and an enjoyable texture. This is especially delightful if you prefer a richer flavor profile.

Coconut Whipped Cream

• Serve alongside coconut whipped cream for added creaminess and a tropical touch. It pairs wonderfully with the fruit toppings.

Chocolate Shavings

• For chocolate lovers, consider adding some dark chocolate shavings on top. This indulgent addition will enhance the overall dessert experience.

How to Perfect Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

Creating the perfect Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard involves attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your tarts turn out amazing every time.

• Chill the Dough: Letting the dough rest in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking helps prevent shrinking and promotes a flaky texture.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality vegan butter and plant-based milk can significantly enhance the flavor of your crust and custard.
• Ensure Proper Mixing: When combining ingredients for the custard, mix thoroughly to avoid lumps, ensuring a smooth and silky finish.
• Control Cooking Temperature: Keep an eye on your stove when boiling the custard; too high heat can lead to burning or uneven thickening.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing your tarts to cool fully helps set the custard properly, resulting in clean slices when served.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different extracts like almond or coconut for unique variations in flavor that suit your taste.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Vegan Fruit Tarts can create a well-rounded meal or snack. The following options complement these tarts beautifully while keeping things vegan-friendly.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing combination of seasonal fruits adds color and variety to your dessert table.
2. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats provide a sweet contrast to the creamy tarts while keeping within vegan guidelines.
3. Vegan Ice Cream: A scoop of dairy-free ice cream, such as coconut or almond flavor, makes for a delightful pairing.
4. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding offers an interesting texture alongside the tarts, enhancing your dessert experience.
5. Homemade Granola: A sprinkle of crunchy granola can add texture and additional flavors that pair well with fruits.
6. Almond Biscotti: These crunchy cookies are perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own alongside your delectable tarts.
7. Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl topped with seeds and nuts can be a great addition, creating a balanced meal option.
8. Vegan Cheese Platter: An assortment of plant-based cheeses paired with crackers provides savory contrast to the sweet tarts, making it an exciting offering for gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing the crust to cool can lead to a soggy base. Always let it cool completely before adding the custard.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can create a tough crust. Stop mixing when the dough just comes together, even if it appears crumbly.
• Ignoring measurements: Accurate measurements are vital for a perfect tart. Use a kitchen scale for precision when possible.
• Not using plant-based milk correctly: Different plant milks have varying thicknesses. Choose one that works best for custard consistency, like almond or oat milk.
• Rushing the custard cooking process: Boiling too quickly can ruin the texture. Stir constantly and simmer gently for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

• Wrap each tart individually in plastic wrap.
• Place in an airtight container or freezer bag; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place tarts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place tarts in a skillet over low heat, covering briefly until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard that may help you perfect this delightful dessert.

Can I use different fruits on my tarts?

Absolutely! You can customize your vegan fruit tarts with any seasonal fruits, such as kiwi, mango, or peaches.

How do I make the vegan custard thicker?

If you want a thicker consistency, increase the amount of cornstarch slightly or allow it to cook longer while stirring continuously until desired thickness is reached.

Can I substitute different non-dairy butter?

Yes, you can use any plant-based butter alternative that you prefer. Make sure it has similar properties for best results.

How long does it take for the custard to set?

The custard typically takes about 1-2 hours at room temperature to set completely after being poured into the crust.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Fruit Tarts with Custard are not only beautiful but also versatile and delicious. You can easily customize them with your favorite fruits or add toppings like nuts or chocolate shavings. Enjoy making this impressive yet simple dessert that everyone will love!