A French Peach Tart is a simple yet elegant dessert that features sweet, juicy peaches baked in a buttery tart crust. This tart is perfect for summer when peaches are in season and full of flavor. Follow this easy recipe to create a beautiful and delicious tart that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love French Peach Tart
- Elegant and Delicious: A beautiful dessert that’s perfect for entertaining.
- Simple Ingredients: Requires only a handful of fresh ingredients.
- Refreshing: Light and fruity, it’s the perfect summer dessert.
Key Ingredients
To make this delicious French Peach Tart, gather the following ingredients:
For the Tart Crust:
- All-Purpose Flour: 1 ½ cups.
- Unsalted Butter: ½ cup, cold and cubed.
- Sugar: ¼ cup.
- Egg Yolk: 1 large.
- Cold Water: 1-2 tablespoons.
For the Filling:
- Fresh Peaches: 4-5 ripe peaches, peeled and thinly sliced.
- Sugar: ¼ cup.
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (to thicken the filling).
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon to prevent the peaches from browning.
Topping:
- Glaze: 2 tablespoons apricot jam (warmed) or honey to give the tart a glossy finish.
How to Make French Peach Tart
1. Prepare the Tart Crust
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the flour and sugar. Add the cold butter and work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Egg Yolk: Stir in the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Add more water if needed.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat and Bake the Crust
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your tart pan.
- Blind Bake: Line the tart crust with parchment paper, add pie weights, and bake for 15-20 minutes. Remove the weights and bake for another 5 minutes. Let the crust cool.
3. Prepare the Peach Filling
- Slice the Peaches: Peel and thinly slice the peaches. In a bowl, toss the peaches with sugar, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice.
- Arrange the Peaches: Once the tart crust is cooled, arrange the peach slices in a spiral pattern, starting from the outer edge and working inward.
4. Bake the Tart
- Bake: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peaches are tender and the crust is golden.
5. Add the Glaze
- Brush with Glaze: While the tart is still warm, brush the top with warm apricot jam or honey for a glossy finish.
6. Serve
- Cool and Slice: Allow the tart to cool before slicing. Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Tips for the Best French Peach Tart
- Use Ripe Peaches: For the best flavor, use peaches that are ripe but still firm to hold their shape during baking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the crust and store it in the fridge, then assemble the tart just before baking.
- Add Almonds: For extra texture and flavor, sprinkle sliced almonds over the peaches before baking.
Variations of French Peach Tart
1. Peach and Raspberry Tart
Add fresh raspberries for a burst of color and extra flavor.
2. Peach and Almond Tart
Incorporate a layer of almond cream (frangipane) at the base of the tart for a more traditional French dessert.
3. Vegan Peach Tart
Use a plant-based butter and egg substitute to make this tart vegan-friendly.
Health Benefits
- Rich in Vitamins: Peaches are packed with vitamins A and C, promoting healthy skin and immune function.
- Low in Calories: This light dessert is a great option for those looking for a sweet treat without too many calories.
- Seasonal Fruit: Making the tart with fresh, seasonal peaches enhances the flavor and provides natural sweetness.
FAQs About French Peach Tart
Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, you can use frozen peaches. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slightly before serving or enjoy cold.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the tart crust in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before filling and baking.
Conclusion
French Peach Tart is a stunning and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Its light, buttery crust and sweet, juicy peaches make it the ideal summer treat. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a special event, this tart is sure to impress. For more fruity dessert ideas, check out our Summer Desserts or explore Fruit-Based Recipes.