If you adore jam tarts, this Glazed Cherry Jam Tart with a Sweet Meringue Topping is an absolute delight that you must try. The classic crust is filled with a rich cherry jam and topped with a silky, sweet meringue that's lightly browned to perfection. The combination of the buttery crust, the sweet-tart flavor of the cherry filling, and the fluffy meringue creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.
Why You'll Love This: This tart combines several elements that dessert lovers cherish. The crust is perfectly crisp and provides a sturdy base for the generous layer of cherry jam, which offers a burst of cherry flavor with each bite. The meringue topping, glossy and light, adds a sophisticated touch that not only looks spectacular but also provides a delicate sweetness that complements the tartness of the cherries. This tart is a beautiful blend of simple ingredients coming together to create a dessert that feels both traditional and luxurious.
Perfect Occasion: This tart is perfect for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries, or family gatherings. It's also an excellent choice for holiday celebrations or as a show-stopping dessert at a dinner party. Additionally, its elegant appearance and delightful flavor profile make it ideal for serving at afternoon tea events or as a special treat to enjoy on a leisurely weekend.
Decoration Tips: For a beautiful presentation, use a piping bag to create intricate designs with the apricot jam on top of the meringue before baking. You might consider adding some fresh cherries on top for a pop of color and to hint at the filling inside. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on the meringue can also add to its visual appeal.
Ingredients:
- For the Pastry:
- 300g all-purpose flour
- 1 whole egg
- 1 egg yolk
- 85g granulated sugar
- 140g butter, chilled
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
- For the Filling and Topping:
- 250g cherry jam
- 1 egg white
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100g powdered sugar
- 50g apricot jam
- Prepare the Pastry:
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine flour, sugar, butter, whole egg, egg yolk, baking powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the dough is compact and smooth. If the dough is too soft, refrigerate for about an hour.
- Roll out two-thirds of the dough to a thickness of 6mm, and line a 24cm tart pan lined with parchment paper, forming high edges about 2cm tall.
- Assemble the Tart:
- Spread the cherry jam evenly over the pastry base.
- Roll out the remaining dough to a 3mm thickness, cover the jam-filled base, and seal the edges well. If the dough is very thin, consider chilling it in the freezer for 10 minutes before covering the tart to prevent breaking.
- Prepare the Meringue:
- In a clean bowl, whip the egg white with vanilla extract until frothy. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue to beat until the meringue is stiff and glossy.
- Decorate and Bake:
- Spread the meringue over the top of the tart. Decoratively swirl the apricot jam over the meringue using a piping bag.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170°C for 45 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 160°C and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes until the meringue is lightly golden.
Enjoy this exquisite Glazed Cherry Jam Tart with Sweet Meringue Topping, a dessert that's as delicious as it is beautiful, perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a luxurious treat.