If you love the perfect balance of fruity freshness and creamy indulgence, you are in for a real treat with this Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe. This dessert brings together a buttery, golden crust, a luscious vanilla custard, and a vibrant medley of berries that burst with flavor in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious slice after dinner, this tart offers an irresistible combination of textures and colors that makes every moment special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the stage for an unforgettable tart. Each component, from the crisp tart crust to the velvety custard and the fresh berries, plays a vital role in creating the perfect harmony of taste, texture, and visual appeal.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of your tart crust; opt for a measured 1 1/4 cups for structure without toughness.
- Cold unsalted butter: 1/2 cup cubed butter keeps the crust flaky and rich without excess saltiness.
- Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup to subtly sweeten the crust and ensure a tender crumb.
- Salt: Just 1/4 teaspoon to balance sweetness and enhance flavor.
- Egg yolk: One yolk binds the crust and adds richness.
- Cold water: 1 to 2 tablespoons help bring the dough together without warming the butter.
- Whole milk: 1 1/2 cups for the custard’s creamy base.
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup adds just the right touch of sweetness to the custard.
- Large egg yolks: Three yolks are essential for thick, silky custard texture.
- Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons provide the thickening power needed for custard perfection.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon imparts that warm, comforting flavor.
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon enriches the custard with a luscious finish.
- Mixed fresh berries: 1 1/2 cups (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries) for a burst of color and natural sweetness.
- Apricot jam: 2 tablespoons (optional) for a shiny, inviting glaze.
- Water: 1 teaspoon to thin the glaze, if using.
How to Make Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
Start by combining your dry ingredients—flour, powdered sugar, and salt—in a food processor or mixing bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse or cut in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This flaky texture is what makes the crust so delightful! Incorporate the egg yolk and cold water just until the dough comes together, then shape it into a disc. Wrapping it in plastic and chilling it cools the fats and makes rolling easier.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust
Roll out your chilled dough and press it into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Prick the base with a fork to avoid bubbling during baking. After another short chill, line the crust with parchment paper and add pie weights or dried beans to prevent shrinking. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and paper and bake another 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp. Let it cool fully before proceeding.
Step 3: Make the Custard Filling
Warm the whole milk over medium heat just until steaming—this temp prevents cooking the eggs prematurely. Meanwhile, whisk egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until silky smooth. Slowly whisk in the warm milk to temper the yolks, then return the mixture to the saucepan. Stir constantly over medium heat until thick and creamy, around 3 to 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and whisk in butter and vanilla for that extra layer of richness. Let the custard cool slightly before pouring it into your prepared tart shell. Chill in the refrigerator for 1 to 2 hours until fully set.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
Once the custard has chilled, lovingly arrange your mixed berries on top—this is where the dish truly shines. For an elegant, glossy finish, gently warm apricot jam with a little water and brush it over the berries. This step isn’t mandatory but adds a beautiful sheen and a hint of fruitiness that complements the fresh berries beautifully. Serve chilled and enjoy the smiles this creation will earn!
How to Serve Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your tart by dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar for a delicate snowy effect or add a few fresh mint leaves for a refreshing aroma and pop of green. These simple touches elevate presentation without overpowering the natural flavors.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs wonderfully with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, balancing the fruity brightness with creamy softness. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a glass of chilled dessert wine can also make your dessert experience even more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual tartlets for a charming party treat or slice the tart and plate with a drizzle of berry coulis or chocolate sauce for a restaurant-style dessert. You can even layer berries in a clear glass atop small custard portions as a quick alternative that captures the essence of the Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover tart covered loosely with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 2 days, though the crust may soften slightly over time.
Freezing
It’s best to freeze just the tart crust before filling as a time-saving option. Wrap the baked crust tightly and freeze for up to one month. Custard and assembled berry toppings don’t freeze well due to texture changes.
Reheating
This tart is best served chilled, so no reheating is necessary. If you prefer, allow your slice to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before enjoying to appreciate the full flavor and creaminess of the custard.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
While fresh berries are ideal for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen berries if fresh ones aren’t available. Thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture which can make the tart soggy.
Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavors will remain delightful.
How long does it take to make this Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe?
The total time is about two hours, including chilling periods, with 30 minutes active prep and 30 minutes baking. Planning ahead makes the process very manageable!
Can I prepare the custard and crust a day ahead?
Absolutely. Making the crust and custard a day before saves time on the day of serving. Assemble the tart just before your guests arrive or when ready to enjoy for the best results.
What other fruits can I use besides mixed berries?
This recipe is versatile! Try stone fruits like peaches or nectarines, or even kiwi and mango slices for a tropical twist. Just keep the fruit fresh and cut uniformly for beautiful presentation.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for that crowd-pleasing, show-stopping dessert, this Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe is your new best friend. Its perfect balance of buttery crust, creamy custard, and vibrant berries makes it an absolute joy to make and eat. Don’t hesitate to dive in and create this stunning tart that’s guaranteed to brighten any table and warm every heart.
Print
Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mixed Berry Tart with Custard Filling features a buttery, flaky tart crust filled with smooth vanilla custard and topped with a vibrant mix of fresh berries. The glossy apricot glaze adds a perfect finishing touch, making it an elegant and refreshing dessert ideal for summer gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 1–2 tablespoons cold water
For the Custard Filling:
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon water
Instructions
- Make the crust: In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and pulse or cut in with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the tart shell: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and press it evenly into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Chill again for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the crust: Line the tart crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights and parchment, then bake for another 10 to 12 minutes until the crust is golden. Allow the crust to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Make the custard: In a saucepan, heat the whole milk over medium heat until it just starts to steam (do not boil). In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually pour the warm milk into the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously to temper it.
- Cook the custard: Return the combined mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter and vanilla extract. Let the custard cool slightly before spreading it evenly into the cooled tart shell. Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until fully set.
- Assemble the tart: Once chilled, arrange the mixed fresh berries decoratively on top of the custard layer. For an optional glossy finish, gently warm the apricot jam with water until melted and smooth, and brush it over the berries. Serve the tart chilled for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can customize the berry topping to your preference, using any combination of fresh berries you enjoy.
- Prepare the crust and custard filling a day ahead to save time and improve texture; assemble the tart just before serving.
- If apricot jam is unavailable, a light dusting of powdered sugar can be an alternative garnish.
- Ensure the custard is fully cooled before adding berries to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
