If you’re looking for a dessert that is both indulgent and loaded with flavor, this Mixed Nut and Berry Puff Pastry Tart is a perfect choice. Combining the richness of nuts, the tartness of berries, and the warmth of cinnamon, all encased in a flaky puff pastry, this tart is a treat that will satisfy a wide variety of taste buds. The filling consists of a combination of frozen berries, lemon juice, and a hint of sugar, while the nutty crunch comes from a delightful mixture of peanuts, almonds, and walnuts, tied together with cinnamon. It’s an easy yet impressive dessert that you can serve at gatherings or enjoy as a special treat.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you step by step to achieve a perfectly balanced tart that’s sweet, tangy, and full of texture. Let’s get started!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry:
- Puff pastry: 500 g (18 oz)
For the Berry Filling:
- Frozen berries: 500 g (18 oz)
- Sugar: 100 g (3.5 oz)
- Lemon juice: 30 ml (1 fl oz)
- Starch: 30 g (1.1 oz)
- Water: 50 ml (1.7 fl oz)
For the Nut Filling:
- Peanuts: 200 g (7.1 oz)
- Almonds: 200 g (7.1 oz)
- Walnuts: 200 g (7.1 oz)
- Cinnamon: 20 g (0.7 oz)
- Melted butter: 150 g (5.3 oz)
For Garnishing:
- Yogurt: 50 g (1.8 oz)
- Cinnamon: 5 g (0.2 oz)
Steps to Make the Mixed Nut and Berry Puff Pastry Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Nut Mixture
- Chop the Nuts: Start by roughly chopping the peanuts, almonds, and walnuts. You want a mix of smaller chunks and larger pieces for a great texture.
- Mix with Cinnamon and Butter: In a large bowl, combine the chopped nuts with 20 g of cinnamon and the melted butter. Stir until all the nuts are coated with the buttery cinnamon mixture. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Berry Filling
- Heat the Berries: In a medium saucepan, add the frozen berries, 100 g of sugar, and 30 ml of lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
- Thicken with Starch: In a small bowl, dissolve 30 g of starch in 50 ml of water. Slowly add this to the simmering berry mixture, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Make sure the pastry is large enough to fit into a tart pan or form a rectangle on a baking sheet.
- Layer the Nut Mixture: Spread the cinnamon and butter-coated nuts evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Add the Berry Filling: Once the berry filling has cooled slightly, spoon it evenly over the nuts.
- Fold the Edges: Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the filling, creating a rustic tart shape. Press the edges lightly to seal them.
Step 4: Bake the Tart
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Bake: Place the assembled tart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add a Cinnamon Yogurt Drizzle: Once the tart has cooled for about 10 minutes, mix the yogurt with a pinch of cinnamon and drizzle it over the top.
- Serve: Slice the tart and serve it warm or at room temperature. The tart can be paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Approximate values per serving (assuming 8 servings):
- Calories: 460 kcal
- Protein: 9 g
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Sugar: 14 g
This tart is rich in healthy fats from the nuts and provides a good source of fiber and antioxidants from the berries. It’s a great option for a dessert that combines both taste and nutrition.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh berries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh berries for this recipe. If using fresh berries, you may need to reduce the cooking time for the berry filling, as fresh berries release less liquid than frozen ones.
2. Can I use a different type of pastry?
Puff pastry works best for this tart because it becomes light and flaky when baked, but you can also experiment with phyllo dough for a crispier texture or shortcrust pastry for a denser base.
3. What other nuts can I use?
You can swap out the nuts in the recipe with your favorites. Pistachios, hazelnuts, or pecans would all work well. Just ensure you maintain the same overall quantity to achieve the perfect nutty layer.
4. Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tart a few hours in advance. Bake it and store it at room temperature. For the best flavor, serve it on the same day you bake it.
5. How can I make this tart vegan?
To make this tart vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free yogurt for the garnish. Ensure that the puff pastry you use is also vegan-friendly.
Tips for Making the Perfect Tart
- Keep the Puff Pastry Cold: Puff pastry works best when it’s cold. If it becomes too warm while you’re working with it, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes to firm up before baking.
- Use a Variety of Berries: For more complexity in flavor, use a mix of different berries, like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the tart with the nut and berry mixture, as this can cause the pastry to become soggy. Stick to the quantities mentioned in the recipe for the best results.
- Serve with a Side: For a truly indulgent treat, serve this tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Storage Tips
- At Room Temperature: This tart can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
- In the Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, store the tart in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the oven to regain some of the crispness before serving.
- In the Freezer: You can also freeze the tart. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
This Mixed Nut and Berry Puff Pastry Tart is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet, tart, and nutty notes. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just a weekend treat, this tart is sure to impress. With a flaky crust, a rich nutty layer, and a sweet-tart berry filling, it’s a dessert that strikes a harmonious balance between indulgence and nutrition. Try this recipe today and enjoy the irresistible taste of mixed nuts and berries wrapped in a golden puff pastry!