Bite-Sized Fruit Tarts with Vanilla Cream

For the Butter Crust:

• 115 grams of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg, the binding element
• ½ cup of powdered sugar, for a hint of sweetness
• ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, to enhance the flavors
• 250 grams of all-purpose flour, the foundation

For the Vanilla Pastry Cream:

• 1 ¾ cups of milk, the base of creaminess
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, for aromatic sweetness
• 5 egg yolks, rich and velvety
• ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, a subtle touch
• ½ cup of granulated sugar, to sweeten the deal
• 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, the thickening agent

For the Toppings:

• Fresh strawberries and blueberries, for a burst of juiciness
• 1 tablespoon of apricot jam, for a glossy finish
• ½ teaspoon of water, to thin the jam for glazing

Assembling the Magic:

1. Begin with the tart dough. In a food processor, mix flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the butter and pulse until pea-sized. Then, add the egg and vanilla, and pulse just until the dough comes together. Wrap and chill.
2. Roll the chilled dough and cut rounds to fit into mini tart pans. Press into place, trim the edges, and dock with a fork. Freeze for 20 minutes, then bake at 180°C (350°F) until golden. Cool as you prepare the cream.
3. For the pastry cream, heat milk and vanilla until simmering. Mix sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks in a bowl, temper with some milk, then combine all and cook until thick. Chill with plastic wrap on the surface.
4. Once set, pipe the pastry cream into the tart shells. Adorn with berries, and if desired, glaze with apricot jam mixed with water.

Insider Tips for Perfection:

• Keep the butter cold for a flaky crust.
• If the crust balloons while baking, gently press it down.
• Rest the dough to prevent shrinking during baking.
• If the pastry cream is too stiff, a little milk can soften it.
• Always aim for room temperature ingredients for seamless mixing.
• An easy-release tartlet pan is essential for a smooth finish.

Serve these miniature treats as a delightful end to a meal or a sweet pick-me-up. Each bite promises a harmonious blend of buttery crust, creamy filling, and the tangy-sweetness of fruit. Enjoy crafting these little gems!