Imagine a dessert that combines the delicate buttery layers of puff pastry, the sweet juiciness of ripe plums, and an unexpected twist of aromatic basil-infused honey. These French-inspired Plum Tarts are not just a recipe; they're a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary gastronomic experience. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a sophisticated dessert, these tarts promise to elevate your baking skills and tantalize your senses with every golden, flaky bite.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 6 tarts
Ingredients
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 4 plums, sliced
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Thaw the puff pastry sheet at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes pliable but still cool.
- Unfold the puff pastry and cut it into 6 equal rectangular portions using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
- Carefully slice the plums into thin, uniform slices, approximately 1/8 inch thick, discarding the pit.
- Arrange the puff pastry rectangles on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each tart.
- Using a small knife, create a gentle border around each pastry rectangle by scoring a 1/2-inch margin, being careful not to cut completely through the pastry.
- Arrange the plum slices overlapping slightly within the scored border of each pastry rectangle.
- In a small bowl, mix the honey with finely chopped fresh basil, creating a fragrant sweet basil honey.
- Drizzle the sweet basil honey evenly over the arranged plum slices.
- Brush the exposed pastry edges with beaten egg to ensure a golden, glossy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and turns a deep golden brown color.
- Remove from the oven and let the tarts cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Optional: Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves and a light drizzle of honey before serving.
Tips
- Pastry Temperature Matters: Ensure your puff pastry is thawed but still cool to maintain its signature flaky layers.
- Slice Plums Uniformly: Thin, consistent plum slices ensure even cooking and an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
- Don't Skip the Egg Wash: This gives your tarts a beautiful golden, glossy finish that looks professionally baked.
- Fresh Basil is Key: Use fresh basil leaves for the most vibrant and aromatic honey infusion.
- Watch Baking Time Carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking your tarts around the 20-minute mark to prevent over-browning.
- Let Them Rest: Allowing the tarts to cool slightly helps the pastry set and makes them easier to transfer and serve.
- Serve Slightly Warm: These tarts are most delicious when served warm, allowing the honey to remain slightly runny and the pastry crisp.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg
