Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a decadent yet refined dessert that combines the richness of hazelnuts with the bright, fresh flavor of blackberries, this Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart is a must-try! It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion—whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a sweet treat after dinner. The buttery hazelnut crust pairs beautifully with the velvety vanilla blackberry filling, and a sprinkle of hazelnut shavings on top adds that perfect finishing touch. Let’s dive into making this irresistible tart!
Introduction
Tarts are a beloved dessert worldwide, known for their delicate crust and luxurious fillings. This Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart is no exception. Combining the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with the sweet and tangy burst of blackberries, this tart takes traditional desserts to the next level. Not only does the rich and creamy filling perfectly complement the crispy, buttery hazelnut crust, but it also makes every bite a delightful treat.
I first tried this tart at a gathering, and I immediately knew I had to recreate it. The combination of sweet blackberries, smooth vanilla custard, and crunchy hazelnuts is simply divine. I couldn’t wait to share this recipe with you, and now, let’s get started on making this show-stopping dessert!
Ingredients for Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart
To prepare this delicious Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart, you’ll need the following ingredients:
The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups hazelnuts, toasted and finely ground
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
The Filling:
- 2 cups blackberries, fresh or frozen
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup heavy cream
The Garnish:
- Fresh blackberries
- Whipped cream (optional)
- Hazelnut shavings or chopped hazelnuts
How to Make Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart:
Step 1: Make the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the ground hazelnuts, flour, and salt. Then, in another bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla, mixing until everything is well incorporated.
Step 2: Form the Dough
Next, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. Once your dough is ready, press it evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan. Be sure to prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it is lightly golden. Afterward, let it cool while you prepare the filling. This step is important to ensure that the crust is properly set before adding the filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, vanilla, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until the mixture begins to thicken and bubble. Once it does, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before continuing.
Step 5: Whisk It Together
While the filling cools, whisk together the egg and heavy cream in a separate bowl. Slowly incorporate the blackberry mixture into the egg and cream, stirring gently to combine everything smoothly. This step ensures that the filling maintains its silky texture.
Step 6: Assemble the Tart
Now, pour the filling into the cooled tart shell. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the filling has set. After baking, allow the tart to cool completely before removing it from the tart pan.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, top your tart with fresh blackberries, a dollop of whipped cream if desired, and sprinkle with hazelnut shavings or chopped hazelnuts for a delicious finishing touch. This last step not only enhances the appearance but adds even more flavor to the dessert.
Helpful Tips
- Hazelnut Variations: If you prefer a lighter flavor, you can swap some of the hazelnuts with almonds or pecans. However, keep in mind that hazelnuts provide that distinctive, rich flavor that makes this tart truly special.
- Filling Texture: It’s important to avoid overcooking the filling. You want it to be thick but smooth when you pour it into the tart shell, so be cautious during cooking.
- Make-Ahead Option: If you’re preparing this tart in advance, you can easily make it a day ahead of time. After assembling, simply store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Cooking Tips
Here are a few extra tips to make sure your Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart turns out perfectly:
- Roasting Hazelnuts: Make sure to toast the hazelnuts to bring out their rich, nutty flavor. You can either toast them in a dry skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes. Once toasted, finely grind them for the crust.
- Let the Tart Cool: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly and the tart slices neatly.
Serving Suggestions
This Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart is a showstopper on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of complementary dishes:
- Ice Cream: Pair it with vanilla or berry-flavored ice cream to elevate the berry experience.
- Cheese Plate: Serve with a selection of cheeses like a creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, which will balance the sweetness of the tart.
- Berry Compote: For extra berry goodness, serve with a side of berry compote or a drizzle of blackberry syrup to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information
A slice of this Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart provides a rich, satisfying dessert, though it’s best enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown:
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 290
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 75mg
- Potassium: 140mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 16g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 6%
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate:
Store any leftover Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat:
Although this tart is best served chilled, if you prefer to serve it slightly warm, you can gently warm it in a low oven (about 275°F or 135°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Creative Leftovers:
You can use leftover tart filling in yogurt or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. Alternatively, repurpose the hazelnut crust for other dessert fillings like chocolate ganache or lemon curd.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen blackberries?
Yes, frozen blackberries work perfectly well. Be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
2. Can I substitute the heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half. However, the texture and richness of the filling will change slightly.
3. Can I freeze this tart?
Yes, you can freeze the tart before adding the garnish. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator.
Related Recipes
If you love this Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart, you might also enjoy these related recipes:
Conclusion
Now that you have the recipe for this exquisite Blackberry Vanilla Hazelnut Tart, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re preparing it for a special event or just treating yourself, this tart will surely impress. We’d love to hear how it turned out and if you made any fun tweaks along the way. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share your results with us!