Imagine a dessert that perfectly balances the sweet, juicy essence of ripe plums with the rich, nutty crunch of toasted hazelnuts – a culinary masterpiece that transforms a simple tart into an extraordinary experience. This Plum and Hazelnut Crumb Tart is not just a dessert; it's a journey through European baking traditions that will transport you to a cozy café in the countryside with every single bite. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a curious home cook, this recipe promises to elevate your dessert game and impress even the most discerning food lovers.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: European
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made tart shell
- 3 cups plums, pitted and sliced
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup flour
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even baking.
- Prepare the plums by washing them thoroughly, removing the pits, and slicing them into uniform, thin wedges approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Spread the chopped hazelnuts on a small baking sheet and toast them lightly in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become fragrant and golden brown. Remove and let cool.
- Place the pre-made tart shell on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips during baking.
- Arrange the sliced plums in an overlapping, circular pattern across the bottom of the tart shell, ensuring even coverage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and toasted chopped hazelnuts. Pour the melted butter over the dry ingredients and mix until a crumbly texture forms.
- Sprinkle the hazelnut crumb mixture evenly over the arranged plum slices, covering the entire surface of the tart.
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crumb topping turns golden brown and the plums are soft and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the tart cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes to allow the filling to set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally garnished with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Choose ripe, firm plums for the best texture and flavor – they should give slightly when gently pressed but not be mushy.
- Toast the hazelnuts carefully to enhance their flavor, but watch them closely to prevent burning. The moment they become fragrant, they're ready.
- If using a homemade tart shell, ensure it's pre-baked slightly to prevent a soggy bottom.
- For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a light sprinkle of cinnamon to the crumb mixture.
- Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing to help the filling set and make cutting easier.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and gently reheat before serving to restore the crisp texture of the crumb topping.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 42g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 40mg
