If you’re looking to add a touch of cozy fall flavors to your dessert spread, look no further than these delightful Pumpkin Tarts. These miniature treats are bursting with the warm spices and creamy texture you love about traditional pumpkin pie, but in a perfectly portioned handheld form. They are a perfect addition to any autumn gathering, from Thanksgiving dinners to casual weekend brunches. Let’s get baking!
**Pumpkin Tarts**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup cold water
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Whipped cream and cinnamon for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Make the Filling:**
– In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and heavy cream until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
3. **Assemble the Tarts:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 12-cup mini tart pan.
– Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a round cutter slightly larger than the tart pan cavities to cut out circles. Gently press the dough rounds into the greased tart pan cups.
– Pour the pumpkin filling into each tart shell, filling it almost to the top.
4. **Bake and Serve:**
– Place the tart pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is set.
– Remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
– Before serving, garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top of each tart.
– Enjoy these Pumpkin Tarts as a delightful finish to any fall gathering or a cozy treat for a quiet evening at home.
Pumpkin Tarts are a delightful twist on the classic pumpkin pie, offering the same comforting flavors in a cute, individual-sized package. These tarts are sure to be a hit with family and guests alike, making them the perfect addition to your autumn baking repertoire. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of warm spices fill your kitchen as you create these charming treats. Happy baking!
