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How to Make Tarte à la Crème Anglaise Classique
Step 1: Prepare the Pâte Sucrée (Pastry Dough)
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse a few times to blend.
- Add the butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, and pulse until the dough starts to come together.
- Add water if necessary: If the dough is too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Tart Shell
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a tart pan (about 9 inches in diameter).
- Line the tart pan: Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the tart pan, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough from the edges.
- Blind bake: Place a piece of parchment paper or aluminum foil over the dough and fill with pie weights or dried beans to prevent the dough from puffing up during baking. Bake for 10-12 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Crème Anglaise (Custard Filling)
- Heat the milk and cream: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and the seeds from the vanilla bean (or vanilla extract). Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to simmer, then remove from heat.
- Whisk the egg yolks and sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Temper the egg mixture: Gradually pour the hot milk and cream mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. This prevents the eggs from scrambling.
- Cook the custard: Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the custard thickens and coats the back of the spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the custard: Once thickened, remove from heat and strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any cooked egg bits.
- Cool the custard: Allow the custard to cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled tart shell.
Step 4: Assemble the Tarte
- Fill the tart shell: Pour the cooled crème anglaise into the baked tart shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill the tart: Refrigerate the tart for at least 2-3 hours to allow the custard to set properly.
Serving and Garnishing the Tarte
Once the tart has chilled and the custard has set, it’s time to serve. The tart can be garnished with a variety of toppings, such as:
- Fresh fruit: Berries, sliced peaches, or citrus segments work beautifully with the creamy custard.
- Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an extra layer of richness to the tart.
- Shaved chocolate: For a touch of indulgence, garnish with shaved dark chocolate or chocolate curls.
- Nuts: Toasted almonds or hazelnuts can add a lovely crunch and contrast to the smooth custard.
Why You’ll Love Tarte à la Crème Anglaise
- Elegant and Classic: This French tart is a perfect dessert for special occasions, from dinner parties to holidays.
- Smooth and Creamy: The custard filling is velvety and indulgent, with a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with the buttery crust.
- Customizable: You can add a variety of fruits or toppings to suit your personal taste.
- Timeless French Dessert: Tarte à la Crème Anglaise is a traditional dessert that has stood the test of time—an exquisite example of French pastry craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Tarte à la Crème Anglaise Classique is a show-stopping dessert that combines rich, creamy custard with a buttery, flaky crust, resulting in a sweet and indulgent treat that never goes out of style. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this classic French tart is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Try making this dessert at home and experience the magic of French pastry at its finest!
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