
Quick & Easy Homemade Custard Tart Recipe: Perfect for Beginners
Dreaming of a dessert that’s rich, creamy, and absolutely indulgent? Look no further! This easy custard tart recipe is perfect for beginners and delivers all the deliciousness without complicated steps. Let’s dive into this delightful treat!
What You’ll Need
For the crust (or use store-bought shortcrust pastry):
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- ¼ cup (50g) sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the filling:
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) whole milk
- ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream
- 4 egg yolks
- ½ cup (100g) sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: Nutmeg or cinnamon for garnish
How to Make It
1. Make the Easy Crust (Optional)
- Combine flour and sugar in a bowl. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in the egg yolk and water until the dough forms a ball. Wrap it in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Use Pre-Made Crust to Save Time
If you’re in a hurry, use a store-bought shortcrust pastry. Roll it out and press it into a tart pan. This step saves time while still giving you a flaky base!
3. Blind Bake the Crust
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with weights (like rice or beans). Bake for 10 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 5 minutes. Let it cool.
4. Prepare the Custard Filling
- Heat milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until just steaming.
- Whisk egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Gradually add the hot milk mixture while whisking to prevent curdling.
- Strain the custard to ensure a silky texture.
5. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the custard into the cooled crust.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the center is just set.
- Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
- Time-Saving Option: Use pre-made crust for an easy shortcut without sacrificing flavor.
- Beginner-Friendly: Simple steps and clear instructions ensure success on your first try.
- Versatile Dessert: Dress it up with caramelized sugar, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or fresh berries for a stunning presentation.
Helpful Tips
- Use a tart pan with a removable bottom for easy serving.
- Avoid over-baking; the custard should jiggle slightly when removed from the oven.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days (if you can resist eating it all in one go!).
Common Questions
1. What if I don’t have a tart pan?
You can use a pie dish, but the tart may be slightly deeper.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, substitute whole milk and cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
3. How do I prevent the crust from shrinking?
Make sure the dough is well-chilled before baking and don’t stretch it when fitting it into the pan.
This easy custard tart is your go-to recipe for a quick and impressive dessert. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to delight. Try it out and share your feedback below!