Imagine delicate, buttery tartlet shells filled with silky smooth pastry cream, crowned with a vibrant mosaic of fresh, glistening fruits that look almost too beautiful to eat. These High Tea Fresh Fruit Tartlets are not just a dessert—they're a culinary masterpiece that transforms an ordinary moment into an extraordinary experience. Perfect for impressing guests, celebrating special occasions, or simply treating yourself to a touch of British sophistication, these tartlets promise to elevate your dessert game with minimal effort and maximum elegance.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 12 tartlets
Ingredients
- 1 package pre-made tartlet shells
- 1 cup pastry cream
- Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., berries, kiwi, mango)
- 1/4 cup apricot jam
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry cream by ensuring it is chilled and smooth. If store-bought, transfer to a piping bag with a star tip for easy filling.
- Remove the pre-made tartlet shells from their packaging and allow them to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes to prevent cracking.
- Carefully pipe the pastry cream into each tartlet shell, filling them about 3/4 full and creating a smooth, slightly domed surface.
- Wash and thoroughly dry all fresh fruits. Slice fruits like kiwi and mango into thin, elegant pieces. Keep berries whole if small, or halve larger berries.
- Arrange the fresh fruits artfully on top of the pastry cream, creating a colorful and visually appealing design. Overlap different fruits for texture and visual interest.
- In a small saucepan, warm the apricot jam with water, stirring until it becomes a smooth glaze. Strain to remove any fruit chunks if desired.
- Using a pastry brush, gently apply the warm apricot glaze over the arranged fruits to give them a beautiful shine and help preserve their freshness.
- Refrigerate the tartlets for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the pastry cream to set and flavors to meld together.
- Just before serving, dust lightly with powdered sugar if desired, and arrange on a elegant serving platter for a classic high tea presentation.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Allow tartlet shells to sit at room temperature before filling to prevent cracking.
- Piping Perfection: Use a star-tipped piping bag for smooth, professional-looking pastry cream fills.
- Fruit Selection: Choose a variety of colors and textures for a visually stunning presentation.
- Glaze Technique: Warm the apricot jam slightly to create a more spreadable, glossy finish.
- Chill for Success: Refrigerate tartlets briefly before serving to help set the cream and enhance flavors.
- Last-Minute Sparkle: A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a touch of elegance.
- Make Ahead: Prepare components in advance and assemble shortly before serving for maximum freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 212kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 8mg
