If you’re looking for a tart that’s both tangy and sweet, this Cranberry Tart is the perfect choice. With its golden-brown crust and vibrant cranberry filling, this tart is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it ideal for any special occasion or holiday gathering.
Cranberry Tart
Why This Cranberry Tart is the Best
Tangy and Sweet: The tartness of the cranberries is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness.
Beautiful Presentation: The deep red filling and golden crust make this tart a showstopper on any dessert table.
Aromatic Touch: A sprig of rosemary adds a subtle aromatic note that complements the cranberry flavor beautifully.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this tart is perfect even for beginners.
This Cranberry Tart is inspired by traditional recipes but with a modern twist. The combination of the tart cranberries and the sweet, buttery crust creates a delightful contrast that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this tart is a must-try for any dessert lover.
Ingredient Notes
Pecan halves: Add a rich, nutty flavor and crunchy texture, enhancing the tart’s overall depth.
Graham crackers: Form the base crust, providing sweetness and a crumbly texture.
Butter: Binds the crust ingredients together, adding richness and flavor.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling and balances the tartness of the cranberries.
Reduced-fat cream cheese: Provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor for the filling.
Light sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor.
Egg: Acts as a binder, helping to set the filling as it bakes.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with warm, sweet notes.
Fresh cranberries: Contribute tartness and vibrant color, providing the star flavor of the tart.
Maple syrup: Adds natural sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
Serving Suggestions
With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the tart cranberries.
Paired with Coffee: Enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprig of rosemary or mint for an extra touch of elegance.
With Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of this tart creates a perfect balance of flavors.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh Cranberries: Fresh cranberries will give the best flavor and texture for the filling.
Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to ensure a flaky crust.
Let the Tart Cool Completely: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and a set filling.
A Perfect Holiday Dessert
This Cranberry Tart is a festive, delicious treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. Its vibrant color and tangy-sweet flavor make it a standout dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or just looking for a special treat, this tart is sure to impress.
Cranberry Tart
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup pecan halves lightly toasted for about 7-8 minutes
- 6 whole graham crackers
- 4 tablespoons butter melted and slightly cooled
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar divided
- 2 8-ounce blocks of reduced-fat cream cheese, at room temperature
- ½ cup light sour cream at room temperature
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries rinsed and picked through
- ½ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Start by placing pecans, graham crackers, and ¼ cup of sugar in a food processor. Process the ingredients until they are well combined and finely ground.
- Next, add the melted butter and pulse until the mixture takes on a texture similar to wet sand.
- Transfer the crumb mixture to a tart pan with a removable bottom. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
- Set the tart pan on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven for 8 minutes. Once baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool slightly on a wire rack.
- While the crust cools, wipe the food processor bowl clean. Add ½ cup of granulated sugar, cream cheese, sour cream, egg, vanilla extract, and salt to the bowl. Process the mixture until it is creamy and smooth, making sure to scrape down the sides as needed. Pour this filling into the prepared crust and use an offset spatula to smooth it evenly.
- Bake the tart for about 30 minutes, or until just set. The filling should jiggle slightly but not ripple when the tart is gently shaken. Once done, transfer the tart pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Meanwhile, prepare the cranberry topping by combining cranberries, maple syrup, lemon juice, and the remaining ½ cup of sugar in a saucepan. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring frequently, until most of the berries have burst, which should take about 10 minutes.
- After the tart and cranberry sauce have cooled, chill them for about 8 hours or overnight.
- When ready to serve, carefully remove the tart from the pan ring and place it on a serving platter. Spoon the cranberry sauce generously over the tart, slice it up, and enjoy!
Notes
- To toast the pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for approximately 8 minutes.
- For the best flavor, thaw the tart in the refrigerator for 6 to 8 hours before topping and serving.
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Cranberry Tart