Forget ordinary fruit tarts! Mary Berry, the beloved baking queen, brings a touch of Portuguese flair to the classic dessert with her delectable apricot tarts. These beauties, reminiscent of the famous pastel de nata, are guaranteed to impress.
Instead of the usual jam topping, Mary opts for succulent apricot slices, adding a delightful burst of juicy sweetness. The secret to achieving that authentic Portuguese feel lies in the puff pastry base, which is readily available at most grocery stores. And the best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make, even for beginner bakers!
Mary’s recipe starts with a creamy custard, a key element in the pastel de nata. To create the perfect custard, you’ll gently heat milk, cream, and vanilla extract, while separately whisking together eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and cornflour. The two mixtures are then combined and cooked until thick, ensuring a smooth and silky texture.
Next, the pastry comes into play. Ready-rolled puff pastry makes this step a breeze. Simply cut the pastry into discs, press them into muffin tins, and fill them with the cooled custard. Then, arrange the apricot slices on top, chill the tarts for a bit, and bake them until golden brown and the custard is set.
To finish off these delightful treats, a simple glaze of melted apricot jam adds a touch of shine and extra sweetness. Mary’s apricot tarts are a perfect combination of sweet, tart, and creamy – an irresistible dessert that is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake up some Portuguese-inspired deliciousness!
