Bakewell tart

Bakewell Tart

Bakewell Tart is a traditional British dessert that originated in the town of Bakewell, Derbyshire. It is a sweet pastry tart filled with a layer of jam and an almond-flavored frangipane filling. The tart is typically topped with a layer of icing and a cherry.

History

The exact origins of Bakewell Tart are unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the 19th century. The recipe is said to have been developed by accident when a cook in the town of Bakewell misunderstood instructions for making a jam tart. Instead of spreading the jam on top of the pastry, the cook spread it on the bottom and added a layer of almond filling on top. The result was a delicious and unique tart that became popular in the region.

Ingredients

The ingredients for Bakewell Tart include:

• Shortcrust pastry
• Raspberry jam
• Ground almonds
• Butter
• Caster sugar
• Eggs
• Almond extract
• Icing sugar (for the topping)
• Glace cherries (for decoration)

Preparation

To make Bakewell Tart, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). 2. Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a tart tin with it. 3. Spread a layer of raspberry jam on the bottom of the pastry. 4. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and caster sugar. 5. Add the ground almonds, eggs, and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix well. 6. Spread the almond mixture on top of the jam layer in the pastry. 7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tart is golden brown and set. 8. Allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the tin. 9. Once cooled, mix icing sugar with a little water to make a thick icing and spread it over the top of the tart. 10. Decorate with glace cherries.

Serving

Bakewell Tart is typically served at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or custard. It is a popular dessert choice in British tea rooms and cafes.

Variations

There are several variations of Bakewell Tart, including:

• Bakewell Pudding: A version of the tart that omits the pastry base and is made with a puff pastry top instead.
• Chocolate Bakewell Tart: A variation that includes chocolate in the frangipane filling or as a layer on top of the jam.
• Mini Bakewell Tarts: Individual-sized tarts that are perfect for serving at parties or gatherings.

See Also

• Bakewell
• Frangipane
• British Cuisine