Imagine a dessert so effortlessly elegant and delicious that it looks like you've spent hours in the kitchen, when in reality, it comes together in less than an hour. This Nectarine Tart using Trader Joe's Puff Pastry is your secret weapon for impressing guests or treating yourself to a luxurious yet simple dessert that captures the essence of summer in every single bite. With golden, flaky pastry and juicy, sweet nectarines, this tart is about to become your new go-to recipe for any occasion.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Dessert
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package puff pastry
- 4 ripe nectarines, sliced
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Remove the puff pastry from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to become pliable.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and slice the nectarines into thin, even slices, removing the pit.
- In a medium bowl, combine sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated.
- Gently toss the nectarine slices in the sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Carefully unfold the puff pastry sheet on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a knife, lightly score a 1-inch border around the edge of the pastry, creating a frame for the nectarines.
- Arrange the nectarine slices in overlapping rows within the scored border.
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg to create an egg wash.
- Brush the exposed pastry border with the egg wash to create a golden, shiny crust.
- Sprinkle any remaining sugar mixture over the nectarines.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally garnished with powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Choose ripe but firm nectarines for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overly soft fruits that might become mushy during baking.
- Allow the puff pastry to sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before working with it. This prevents cracking and makes it easier to handle.
- When scoring the pastry border, use a light touch to create a guide without cutting all the way through.
- For an extra touch of elegance, experiment with a light dusting of cinnamon or almond slivers before baking.
- Serve immediately or within a few hours of baking to maintain the pastry's crisp texture.
- If you want a more rustic look, you can fold the edges of the pastry over the nectarines instead of creating a strict border.
- For a decadent finish, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 30mg