When it comes to Christmas baking recipes that embody the cozy charm of the United Kingdom, Plum Tarts take center stage. Bursting with the rich, fruity flavors of seasonal plums and wrapped in a buttery crust, these delightful treats are sure to become a festive favorite in your holiday repertoire. Perfect for serving at gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea by the fireplace, Plum Tarts strike the ideal balance between sweet and tangy, making them a hit with guests of all ages.
**Plum Tarts**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4-5 ripe plums, pitted and sliced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup almond flakes
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pastry:**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled, cubed butter and use your fingertips to rub the mixture together until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. **Preheat the Oven:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. **Roll Out the Dough:**
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles, large enough to fit your tart molds.
4. **Assemble the Tarts:**
Gently press the pastry circles into tart molds, ensuring they cover the base and sides evenly. Dock the pastry with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.
5. **Layer the Plum Slices:**
Arrange the sliced plums on top of the pastry, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful pattern. Drizzle honey over the plums and sprinkle with ground cinnamon for added warmth.
6. **Finish and Bake:**
Scatter almond flakes over the plums for crunch and texture. Place the tarts on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the plums are tender.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once baked, remove the Plum Tarts from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These tarts taste delicious on their own or paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Deliciously festive and visually appealing, these Plum Tarts are a wonderful addition to any Christmas dessert spread. With their flaky crust, juicy plums, and hint of spice, these treats capture the essence of the holiday season in every bite. Whether you showcase them at a holiday dinner or gift them to friends and family, Plum Tarts are a delightful way to infuse a touch of UK-inspired charm into your festive celebrations. Treat yourself and your loved ones to the taste of Christmas with these delightful Plum Tarts!
