When it comes to creating delightful treats that everyone can enjoy regardless of dietary restrictions, gluten-free jam tarts are a wonderful choice. These little pastries are not only a delicious and sweet indulgence but also a perfect way to showcase your favorite jams and preserves in a beautiful and tasty form. The combination of crisp, buttery pastry and sweet, fruity jam makes these tarts a delight for any occasion, from a casual afternoon snack to an elegant dessert. Best of all, this recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed by those who are gluten-sensitive or following a gluten-free lifestyle.
**Gluten-Free Jam Tarts**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup almond flour
– 1/3 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup your favorite jam or preserves
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease the tin with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, almond flour, powdered sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture and use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg and vanilla extract together. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the flour and butter mixture, stirring with a fork until the dough starts to come together.
5. Use your hands to gently knead the dough until it forms a smooth ball. If the dough is too dry, add a little cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time.
6. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Press each portion into the bottom and sides of a muffin cup, forming a small tart shell.
7. Spoon a teaspoon of your favorite jam or preserves into each tart shell, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake the jam tarts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the jam is bubbling.
9. Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the tarts are cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a decorative finish, if desired.
These gluten-free jam tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. Serve them as a delightful snack with a cup of tea or as a sweet ending to a meal. These tarts can be a hit at gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a special treat for you and your loved ones. With their flaky, buttery crust and fruity filling, these jam tarts are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the sweet simplicity of these gluten-free delights!