Custard Tarts (Don Tot)

Contents

Introduction

Custard tarts, a classic British dessert, have been enjoyed for centuries. This delectable dessert consists of a shortcrust pastry shell filled with a creamy custard filling and garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg. Custard tarts are a staple of British cuisine and are often served at high tea, special occasions, and even as a tasty treat with a cup of tea.

The history of custard tarts can be traced back to medieval times when they were made with fruit fillings such as apples and pears. However, it wasn’t until the 16th century that custard became the preferred filling for the tarts. Today, custard tarts are one of the most popular desserts in the UK, with many variations and adaptations of the recipe.

Custard Tarts Recipe

It is the custard that makes this tart a perfect indulgence for a variety of reasons. Custard is appealing to both the senses and the palate. Its creamy texture creates a luxurious mouthfeel that elevates any dessert experience. The rich, velvety consistency is achieved through a careful blend of eggs, milk, and sugar, resulting in a smooth blend that melts in your mouth. The subtle sweetness can be enhanced with various flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or fruit, making it customizable to suit any preference. Here is this timeless dessert that continues to be cherished across generations.

Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes 

Cook Time: 45 minutes 

Total Time: 3 hours 

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: International

Servings: 24

Ingredients

• TART PASTRY:
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup lard
• 1 egg
• 6 tbsp. sugar
• 2 cups all purpose flour; sifted
• FILLING:
• 2 extra large eggs; whole
• 3 extra large egg yolks
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup half and half
• 1 cup sugar

Instructions

1. TO MAKE PASTRY:
2. Cream butter with lard. Add egg and sugar. Beat well. Add flour, 1 cup at a time. The dough will be mealy. Work quickly with your hands to gather dough into a ball. Knead lightly so the mixture adheres. You may chill it at this point while making the filling.
3. TO MAKE FILLING:
4. Be sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Beat whole eggs with egg yolks well. Beat at low speed. (Do not over beat.) Add sugar, the milk, half and half. Let mixture rest for 10-15 minutes Skim off all the foam from mixture.
5. ASSEMBLING:
6. Separate dough into 24 balls. Press each into a 2 1/2 inch (measured across top) tart shell to an even layer across the bottom and all the way up the side. Fill tart shell with filling almost to the top.
7. BAKING:
8. Preheat oven at 300 degrees. Place tarts on cookie sheet and bake for 45 minutes. Cool for 10-15 minutes. Loosen slightly by inserting a toothpick along the sides. The tart shell will unmold easily.

Notes

Custards can be made no more than 1/2 day ahead.

It is important that the ingredients for the filling be at room temperature and beaten over a warm bowl of water. Cold ingredients will cause filling to separate during baking.

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n conclusion, indulging in a homemade custard tart is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s an enchanting journey that transforms simple ingredients into a slice of heaven. As you savor each velvety bite, let the buttery crust and creamy filling whisk you away to a world where calories don’t count and happiness reigns supreme. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea on a rainy afternoon or as a delightful centerpiece at your next gathering, this custard tart is sure to steal the show and warm the hearts of all who partake. So roll up your sleeves, unleash your inner pastry chef, and let the magic of custard create sweet memories that linger long after the last crumb has vanished!