| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 14g | 8g | 52g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 25g | 3g | 4g | 0.1g |
There is a subtle charm that lurks within the simplicity of the Rustic Thimbleberry Tart. A heartfelt nod to my New England roots, where summer afternoons often involve sun-ripened berries and the magic they create in the kitchen. Perhaps, it’s the tart’s wholesome sweetness that has my daughters, Erin and Samantha, coming back for seconds, or the quintessential taste of sun-sweetened thimbleberries that remind them of vibrant summer days spent berry picking. This recipe encapsulates a warm, family-friendly taste that is unequivocally, undeniably, a mouthwatering signature of Hannah’s kitchen.
Fresh from the Oven: Why Thimbleberries?
A New England summer gem, thimbleberries blend a gentle tartness with an endearing sweetness – a burst of flavors that makes my Rustic Thimbleberry Tart so special. Besides their lovely taste, these tiny edible wonders are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C and fiber, making them a delicious and nutritious summer dessert option.
A Symphony of Flavors
The fact that these tarts resonate with a lemony zeal and a slight hint of vanilla amplifies their charm. Adding lemon zest is a simple yet transformative step, while a dash of vanilla extract brings a comforting hint of warmth and balance against the tart’s natural fruit acidity. All of this combined creates a flavor harmony that reverberates with each bite.
Pairing It Up
While the tart by itself is a stellar dessert, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a delightful and light summer brunch, try it alongside a chicken salad with apples and celery. As for drink pairings, a crisp white wine like a chilled Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Tom Collins cocktail perfectly complements the tart’s fruity flavors. Just thinking about this combo makes my mouth water!
In the end, the Rustic Thimbleberry Tart is much more than a recipe. It’s a tangible slice of joy, a symbol of warm family gatherings, and a testament to the simple, breathtaking beauty of summer on a New England plate.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons ice water
- 3 cups fresh thimbleberries
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
Method
Step One
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, and salt. Add in the chilled, cubed butter and use your fingertips or a pastry blender to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step Two
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and ice water. Gradually add this to the flour mixture, stirring until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step Three
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit your tart pan.
Step Four
In a large bowl, toss together the thimbleberries, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until the berries are well coated. Pour this mixture into the prepared tart shell.
Step Five
Fold the edges of the dough over the filling. Brush the edges with the beaten egg and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
Step Six
Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. Let the tart cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Rustic Thimbleberry Tart!
