There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the aroma of a freshly baked jam tart wafting through the kitchen. This delightful dessert brings back memories of sunny afternoons spent with family, gathered around the table, sharing stories and enjoying the sweet taste of homemade goodness. Whether it’s raspberry, apricot, or strawberry jam, this classic jam tart is sure to please everyone!

Ingredients

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup of your favorite jam (raspberry, apricot, or strawberry)
  • 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for brushing)

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your tart bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps to incorporate air, giving your tart a lovely texture.

Next, add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix until well combined. The addition of the egg yolk will help bind the ingredients together, making the dough easier to work with.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough; you want it to be tender and crumbly.

Once the dough is ready, divide it in half. Wrap one half in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes while you prepare the tart shell.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the other half of the dough to fit a tart pan (about 9 inches). Carefully press the dough into the pan, making sure to cover the bottom and sides evenly. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.

Spread your favorite jam evenly over the base of the tart shell. The vibrant colors of the jam will not only look beautiful but also provide a burst of flavor.

Now, take the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out again. Cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern on top of the jam. You can also simply crumble the dough over the jam if you prefer a more rustic look.

If you’re feeling extra fancy, brush the top with a little milk to give it a nice golden finish while baking.

Bake the tart in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the jam is bubbly. The delightful smell will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist!

Once baked, allow the tart to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps to set the jam and makes it easier to slice.

Serve your classic jam tart with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Gather around with friends and family, and enjoy a slice of nostalgia that tastes just like home!

Happy baking!