Shell Tart Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Treat
The shell tart is a classic pastry that is both beautiful and delicious. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether you're serving it as a sweet dessert or a savory appetizer. This simple recipe will guide you through the steps to creating your own beautiful and tasty shell tarts.
Ingredients:
- For the Pastry:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and diced
- 1/4 cup ice water
- For the Filling (Sweet or Savory):
- Sweet:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup fresh berries
- Savory:
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped ham
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sweet:
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pastry:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the diced butter and use your fingers or a pastry blender to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
2. Shape the Shells:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Divide the dough into 12 equal portions.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out each portion of dough into a thin circle.
- Gently press each circle into a tart pan. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
- Prick the bottom of each tart shell with a fork to prevent bubbles from forming.
3. Blind Bake the Shells:
- Line each shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans.
- Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the shells are lightly golden brown.
4. Prepare the Filling:
- Sweet:
- In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
- Pour the cream mixture into the baked tart shells and top with fresh berries.
- Savory:
- In a bowl, combine the cheese, onions, bell pepper, ham, and mayonnaise. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the mixture into the baked tart shells.
5. Bake and Serve:
- Sweet:
- Bake the tarts for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Savory:
- Bake the tarts for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the tarts to cool slightly before serving.
Tips:
- To prevent the pastry from sticking to the rolling pin, sprinkle the work surface with flour.
- For a more flavorful pastry, use unsalted butter and add a pinch of sugar to the dough.
- Feel free to experiment with different fillings, both sweet and savory.
- If you don't have tart pans, you can use muffin tins or even individual ramekins.
Enjoy your delicious homemade shell tarts!
