If you’re a fan of the sweet, sticky goodness found in desserts like chocolate caramel tart or banoffee tart, then this treacle tart recipe is for you. It’s a delightful British classic that’s perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion. Just imagine a slice of this tart, reminiscent of Hogwarts food, bringing back memories of magical feasts.
This treacle tart is a delightful balance of flavors, where the sweetness of golden syrup meets the zesty notes of lemon and a hint of orange. It’s easy to prepare and is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of tartlets recipes. Serve it warm with a dollop of cream or custard, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Traditional British Treacle Tart
The classic treacle tart is a beloved British dessert that holds a special place in the hearts of many. This sweet treat is known for its delightful combination of flavors, blending the rich sweetness of golden syrup with the refreshing zest of lemon and orange.
This tart is reminiscent of the comforting dishes often depicted in stories of Hogwarts, making it a nostalgic choice for those who grew up reading about magical feasts. When you take a slice, the glossy filling glistens with warmth, inviting you to enjoy its lusciousness.
Its buttery pastry shell beautifully contrasts the sweet and slightly tangy filling, creating a dessert experience that is both satisfying and indulgent. Prepare to be charmed by this delightful creation, which is a staple in many dessert repertoires alongside other favorites like chocolate caramel tart and banoffee tart.
Creating the Pastry Shell
The foundation of a treacle tart is, of course, its pastry shell. Using a ready-made shortcrust pastry is an efficient way to ensure a crisp and buttery base without the need for extensive preparation.
Start by rolling out the pastry and lining a tart tin, ensuring to trim any excess from the edges. Pricking the base allows steam to escape during baking, preventing a soggy bottom. After chilling the shell for a bit, it’s ready for blind baking, which sets the foundation for the rich filling to come.
Blind baking involves pre-baking the pastry with parchment paper and baking beans to hold its shape. This method guarantees a delectable texture that complements the luscious filling, making each bite a delight.
The Rich Filling
The filling of a treacle tart is where the magic happens. Combining golden syrup with fresh breadcrumbs gives it that signature sticky texture that pairs so well with the pastry shell.
A touch of lemon juice and zest brings brightness to the dish, cutting through the sweetness and adding a refreshing balance. The inclusion of orange zest adds another layer of citrusy complexity, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Integrating ground ginger provides a subtle warmth, rounding out the filling beautifully. This harmonious blend of ingredients creates a luscious mixture that bakes to a glossy finish, presenting a slice that is both inviting and visually appealing.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Once your tart is filled, it’s time for baking. The tart should be placed in a preheated oven, allowing it to set and develop a delightful golden top.
Baking for around 25 to 30 minutes will result in a perfectly set filling that is still soft and yielding. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is truly enchanting, hinting at the treat that awaits.
After baking, allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. This cooling period helps the filling firm up a touch more, making each slice easier to serve. The anticipation builds as you prepare to indulge!
Serving Suggestions
This treacle tart shines when served warm, drizzled with a generous dollop of whipped cream or clotted cream. The creamy texture beautifully complements the sticky filling, enhancing the overall experience.
For a fresh twist, consider garnishing with a sprig of lemon and orange zest. The citrus notes not only elevate the presentation but also echo the flavors within the tart itself.
Whether enjoyed as a delightful dessert after a hearty meal or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea, this treacle tart is sure to leave a lasting impression. Each slice is an invitation to savor a piece of British culinary tradition, perfect for gatherings or a cozy evening at home.
A Timeless Dessert
As you gather around the table to share this treacle tart, you partake in a tradition that transcends generations.
This dessert is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. From its origins in classic British cuisine to its presence in modern culinary delights, the treacle tart holds a special place in the hearts of many.
So, the next time you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia, remember this treacle tart. It’s an inviting option that stands proudly alongside other beloved sweets like custard tarts and hazelnut tart, sure to please anyone who enjoys a delightful treat.
Traditional British Treacle Tart
This treacle tart features a buttery pastry shell filled with a luscious mixture of golden syrup, breadcrumbs, and a touch of lemon zest. The flavor is sweet and slightly tangy, creating a beautiful harmony that melts in your mouth. It’s a comforting dessert that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 ready-made shortcrust pastry (approximately 9-inch)
- 1 cup golden syrup
- 1 cup fresh white breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 egg, beaten
- Butter for greasing
- Whipped cream or clotted cream for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a 9-inch tart tin. Trim any excess pastry from the edges. Prick the base with a fork and chill for 15 minutes.
- Blind Bake: Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with baking beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the beans and paper and bake for an additional 5 minutes until lightly golden.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the golden syrup, breadcrumbs, lemon juice, lemon zest, orange zest, ground ginger, and beaten egg. Mix until well combined.
- Fill the Tart: Pour the filling into the pre-baked pastry shell, smoothing it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or clotted cream.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 280kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
