Rustic Fig Tart: A Perfectly Sweet and Savory Delight

This elegant fig tart combines the natural sweetness of ripe figs with the savory richness of creamy cheese, all enveloped in a golden, flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of flavors—sweet figs, creamy cheese, and a crisp, buttery tart shell. Topped with fresh burrata, a sprinkle of salt, and the aromatic touch of thyme, this tart is an excellent choice for brunch, an appetizer, or even a light dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This fig tart is a perfect combination of simplicity and sophistication. The rich sweetness of figs pairs beautifully with the tangy, creamy cheese spread, creating a delicate balance between sweet and savory. The addition of a buttery tart crust adds a delightful crispness that contrasts with the soft texture of the figs and the melt-in-your-mouth burrata. The flexibility of this recipe allows you to customize it with different spreads, and the rustic presentation makes it ideal for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy evening at home.

Perfect Occasion:

The fig tart is a versatile dish suitable for a wide range of occasions. Serve it as a stunning appetizer at dinner parties, a delightful addition to brunch, or a refreshing dessert after a hearty meal. Its seasonal appeal makes it perfect for late summer and fall, especially when figs are in their prime. It also pairs wonderfully with wine, making it a great option for a sophisticated evening gathering.

Decoration Tips:

For a professional touch, drizzle the finished tart with honey or a balsamic glaze to complement the sweetness of the figs. You can also garnish with a few sprigs of fresh thyme or mint leaves to add a pop of green color. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt and cracked black pepper before serving will enhance the flavors and give your tart an extra layer of elegance. You can also serve it with a side of mixed greens to create a balanced, savory-sweet meal.

Ingredients:

• For the Tart Dough:
  • 1 packet of Tart Dough (store-bought or homemade, about 300g)
• For the Filling:
  • 6 Fresh Figs, thinly sliced (4-5mm thickness)
  • 1 Egg (for egg wash)
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste)
• Optional Toppings:
  • Burrata Cheese
  • Fresh Thyme
  • Herb or Cream Cheese Spread (your choice)
  • Flaky Sea Salt
  • Cracked Black Pepper

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Figs: Begin by washing the figs and patting them dry. Using a tomato knife or any sharp, serrated knife, slice each fig into thin, uniform rounds about 4-5 mm thick. Set the sliced figs aside.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your tart dough into a large circle, about 1/4 inch thick. If you’re using store-bought dough, simply unroll it and lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking. Make sure the dough is large enough to fit your baking sheet, leaving about a 5 cm (2-inch) border for folding.
3. Add the Cream Cheese Base: Spread a thin layer of your favorite herb or cream cheese spread evenly across the surface of the dough, leaving the border clear for folding. This layer will provide a rich, tangy base that enhances the sweetness of the figs.
4. Arrange the Figs: Starting from the center, arrange the sliced figs in slightly overlapping circles or rows, depending on the shape of your dough. Be sure to leave about a 5 cm (2-inch) border from the edge of the dough to fold over the figs later. The figs should cover the center, but not reach the edges.
5. Fold the Edges: Carefully fold the edges of the tart dough over the outer edge of the fig arrangement. This will create a rustic, freeform tart with the figs visible in the center. The dough edges should overlap slightly with the figs to hold the filling in place.
6. Season and Egg Wash: Sprinkle the arranged figs with a pinch of salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance their natural sweetness. For an extra pop of flavor, you can also add a pinch of thyme leaves. Next, whisk the egg in a small bowl and brush the edges of the tart dough with the egg wash. This will give the crust a beautiful golden color when baked.
7. Bake the Tart: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the prepared tart on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on the tart during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
8. Add Finishing Touches: Once the tart is baked and the crust is golden, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. While still warm, top the tart with torn pieces of burrata cheese and fresh thyme leaves. The burrata will melt slightly, adding a creamy, luxurious texture to the tart. If desired, drizzle with honey or balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the fig tart warm or at room temperature. Slice into wedges and enjoy as an appetizer, main dish, or dessert. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Enjoy your elegant fig tart with its perfect balance of sweet figs, creamy burrata, and a flaky, golden crust!