Bakewell tart

Dessert

Cuisine British

Tags Tart,Baking,Alcoholic

Ingredients 10

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Story behind the dish

The Bakewell tart is a delightful British classic that brings together a perfect harmony of sweet, nutty, and fruity flavors. Its origins date back to the charming town of Bakewell in Derbyshire, where local pastry chefs created a dessert that would become beloved across the UK. Over the years, this humble tart has evolved into a staple for teatime treats and special occasions, with each bite offering a delicate crunch, a fruity jam center, and a moist almond topping. Baking this tart is like creating a little piece of history in your own kitchen, filling the air with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups (6 oz) plain flour
  • 1/3 cup (2 1/2 oz) chilled butter
  • 2-3 tbsp cold water
  • 1 tbsp raspberry jam
  • 1/2 cup (4 1/2 oz) butter
  • 1/2 cup (4 1/2 oz) caster sugar
  • 1/2 cup (4 1/2 oz) ground almonds
  • 1 large free-range egg, beaten
  • 1/2 tsp almond extract
  • 1/3 cup (1 3/4 oz) flaked almonds

Step-by-step

  1. In a bowl, measure the flour and rub in the chilled butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. Add 2 tablespoons of cold water and mix to form a soft dough. If needed, add an additional teaspoon of water to bring the dough together.
  2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use it to line a 8-inch (20 cm) flan or tart tin. Chill the lined pastry in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C / Gas Mark 6 / 180°C fan).
  4. Line the chilled pastry with foil and fill it with baking beans or pie weights. Bake blind for approximately 15 minutes. Remove the foil and beans, then bake for an additional 5 minutes to dry out the base.
  5. Spread the raspberry jam generously over the baked pastry base.
  6. In a pan, melt the butter over low heat. Remove from the heat and stir in the caster sugar, ground almonds, beaten egg, and almond extract until smooth.
  7. Pour this almond filling into the tart shell, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the flaked almonds over the top.
  8. Bake the tart for around 35 minutes. If the almonds are browning too quickly, loosely cover the tart with foil to prevent burning.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

  • For an extra splash of flavor, try swapping raspberry jam for cherry or apricot jam for a fruity twist.
  • Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of clotted cream or a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Closing thoughts

Baking a Bakewell tart is like sharing a treasured piece of British culinary history. With its crisp pastry, sweet jam, and almond-laden topping, this tart is sure to become a favorite in your home too. Whether you're making it for a cozy afternoon tea or a special gathering, it promises comfort and charm in every bite. Happy baking!