Pear Tart with Vanilla Cream

Pear Tart with Vanilla Cream

Introduction

A pear tart with vanilla cream is a classic dessert that combines the delicate sweetness of pears with the creamy richness of vanilla custard. Encased in a buttery tart crust, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or simply treating yourself. With its intricate layers and harmonious flavors, this tart will become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Vanilla Cream Filling:

• 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 vanilla bean (or 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Pear Topping:

• 3-4 ripe but firm pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons apricot jam (for glazing)

Ingredient Breakdown and Benefits

1. Tart Crust: Provides a buttery, flaky base that complements the creamy filling and tender pears.
2. Vanilla Cream: A luscious custard with a rich vanilla flavor, adding depth and creaminess to the tart.
3. Pears: Fresh pears offer a sweet, slightly floral flavor that balances the richness of the cream.
4. Apricot Glaze: Adds a glossy finish and enhances the visual appeal while subtly sweetening the tart.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Tart Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add Butter:
   • Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water:
   • Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Chill the Dough:
   • Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Vanilla Cream

1. Heat the Milk:
   • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and scraped vanilla bean seeds (or vanilla extract) over medium heat until steaming. Do not boil.
2. Mix Yolks and Sugar:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale.
3. Temper the Eggs:
   • Slowly pour a small amount of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Gradually add the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan.
4. Cook Until Thickened:
   • Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens. Remove from heat and stir in butter until smooth.
5. Chill:
   • Cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate until cool.

3. Prebake the Tart Shell

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough:
   • On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press it into the pan and trim the edges.
3. Bake:
   • Line the crust with parchment paper, fill with pie weights, and bake for 15 minutes. Remove weights and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden. Let cool.

4. Assemble the Tart

1. Fill with Vanilla Cream:
   • Spread the chilled vanilla cream evenly into the cooled tart shell.
2. Arrange Pear Slices:
   • Layer the pear slices decoratively on top of the cream.

5. Glaze and Bake

1. Prepare Glaze:
   • Warm the apricot jam with 1 tablespoon of water in a small saucepan until smooth.
2. Brush Pears:
   • Brush the glaze over the pears to give them a shiny finish.
3. Bake:
   • Bake the assembled tart at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to soften the pears slightly.

Tips for a Perfect Pear Tart

1. Choose the Right Pears:
   • Use varieties like Bosc or Bartlett that hold their shape when baked.
2. Chill the Dough:
   • Ensure the dough is well-chilled to prevent shrinkage during baking.
3. Avoid Overbaking:
   • Keep an eye on the tart to prevent the crust from becoming too dark.
4. Custom Design:
   • Experiment with different patterns when arranging the pear slices for a visually stunning tart.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Almond Pear Tart:
   • Add a layer of almond paste under the vanilla cream for extra richness.
2. Chocolate Vanilla Pear Tart:
   • Drizzle melted chocolate over the top before serving.
3. Spiced Pear Tart:
   • Sprinkle ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the pears for a warm, spiced flavor.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Dessert:
   • Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
2. With Coffee:
   • Pair with a hot espresso for an indulgent afternoon treat.
3. For Celebrations:
   • Make it a centerpiece dessert for dinner parties or special occasions.
4. For Gifting:
   • Present it in a decorative box as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make the tart ahead of time?
   • Yes, prepare the tart a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. What if I don’t have a tart pan?
   • Use a pie dish as an alternative.
3. Can I freeze the tart?
   • It’s best enjoyed fresh, but the crust and cream can be prepared and frozen separately.
4. How do I prevent a soggy crust?
   • Prebake the crust and brush with a thin layer of egg white before adding the cream.

Conclusion

Pear tart with vanilla cream is a masterpiece of flavor and presentation, combining a buttery crust, creamy custard, and tender pears into a dessert that’s as delicious as it is elegant. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed as a quiet indulgence, this tart is sure to impress. Follow this recipe and treat yourself to a slice of culinary sophistication today!