Cranberry Frangipane Tart Recipe: A Culinary Delight
The Cranberry Frangipane Tart is an exquisite dessert that combines the nutty richness of almonds with the tartness of fresh cranberries, creating a symphony of flavors in your mouth. Imagine a buttery, crumbly crust cradling a luscious almond filling, topped with vibrant, jewel-like cranberries that burst with flavor in each bite. This dessert is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes, perfect for special occasions or a simple family gathering. Its comforting, nostalgic qualities make it a must-try for any baking enthusiast, particularly as the holiday season approaches. This recipe is worth making because it captures the essence of warmth, inviting you to indulge in a sweet slice of goodness that tantalizes your senses.
Are You Ready for a Sweet Adventure?
Have you ever found yourself savoring a slice of dessert, wishing for that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness? Picture this: A chilly evening where the aroma of freshly baked tart wafts through the air, making your mouth water as you eagerly await the first bite. What if I told you that this Cranberry Frangipane Tart could fulfill that craving and more? Wouldn’t you want to dive into a piece and let the flavors dance on your palate, bringing warmth to your heart and a smile to your face?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cranberry Frangipane Tart is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to prepare. With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, even novice bakers can bring this stunning dessert to life. It’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, appealing to a variety of tastes with its unique combination of sweet and tart flavors. Furthermore, the simplicity of the recipe allows for a fast assembly, while still delivering on that luxurious dessert experience we all crave.
Ingredients
To craft this heavenly tart, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup whole almonds: These provide the essential nutty base for our frangipane.
- 1 cup almond flour: Enhancing the texture and flavor with its fine, delicate consistency.
- 2 Tablespoons granulated sugar: A touch of sweetness to bring balance to the dough.
- 1/8 teaspoon salt: A subtle touch that amplifies the flavors.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness to the crust, creating a fragrant aroma.
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, softened: For a creamy frangipane that melts in your mouth.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This sweetens our luscious filling, ensuring perfect flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the frangipane and adding structure.
- 1 and 1/3 cup almond flour: Deepening the almond flavor profile in the filling.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: For a fragrant touch that elevates the dessert.
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Intensifying the nuttiness, creating depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the tart profile, balancing sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds aromatic oils for an extra pop of citrus.
- 1 and 1/4 cups fresh cranberries: The star of the show, providing tart bursts in every slice.
- Optional coarse sugar for sprinkling: A delightful crunchy sweetness on top.
- Optional sugared cranberries for garnish: For an elegant touch that dazzles the eye.
Timing
Baking this Cranberry Frangipane Tart can be a delightful mix of fast-paced fun and slow, luxurious enjoyment. While the prep and bake time is about one hour, the result is a beautifully sophisticated dessert that looks and tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen. Whether you’re pressed for time or looking to savor the process, this tart accommodates both needs seamlessly.
Step-by-Step
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Arranging the temperature sets the stage for perfect baking.
2. Make the crust: In a food processor, pulse the whole almonds, almond flour, sugar, and salt until the almonds are finely chopped, creating a fragrant nut blend. Add melted butter and pulse until the mixture resembles crumbly sand, hinting at the delightful crust to come.
3. Press the dough: Firmly press the crumbly dough into a 9 or 10-inch tart pan, ensuring it covers the base and sides evenly. Bake for 10 minutes until slightly golden, then remove and allow it to cool. The warm, buttery scent will entice your senses.
4. Make the frangipane: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until they form a creamy, dreamy mixture. Add the eggs one at a time, beating to incorporate fully before moving on. Stir in the almond flour, salt, extracts, lemon juice, and zest until combined, creating a rich, velvety filling.
5. Fill the crust: Spread the frangipane evenly over the cooled crust, the almond-scented mixture gliding easily into every corner.
6. Dot the filling with cranberries: Gently press the cranberries into the filling, allowing them to nestle in for warmth. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired, adding an element of sweetness that slightly caramelizes while baking.
7. Bake: Place your tart in the oven and bake for 38-40 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and cranberries look delightfully juicy. If the tart browns too quickly, tent it with foil to ensure even cooking.
8. Cool and garnish: After removing from the oven, let the tart cool for 20 minutes before carefully removing it from the pan. For an extra touch of elegance, garnish with sugared cranberries for a festive finish, serving warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Information
A serving of this Cranberry Frangipane Tart, a generous slice that fulfills your sweet tooth, packs approximately 320 calories. While indulgent, it’s a treat that reminds us to embrace occasional decadence, striking a balance between nutritional enjoyment and delight.
Healthier Alternatives
For those on a health-conscious journey, consider these swaps: use a sugar substitute in place of granulated sugar for lower calorie content, and opt for dairy-free butter alternatives. Additionally, using an appropriate type of sweetener could help reduce sugar levels without sacrificing enormous flavor, allowing everyone to enjoy the magic of baking.
Serving Suggestions
This tart pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance its richness. Perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or an indulgent treat for yourself, the Cranberry Frangipane Tart leaves a memorable imprint on any occasion.
Common Mistakes
A few pitfalls can occur when baking this tart: overbaking can lead to a dry texture, while underbaking may prevent the filling from setting properly. Always keep an eye on the tart as it bakes, and check for a golden edge to ensure perfect results. Also, ensure you allow the tart to cool before removing it from the pan for a mess-free experience.
Storing Tips
Leftover tart can be stored in the refrigerator and makes a delectable treat when enjoyed cold. For longer storage, consider slicing and freezing portions, ensuring they’re well-wrapped to preserve freshness. When ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or enjoy slightly warmed.
Temptation Awaits
This Cranberry Frangipane Tart is calling your name! Its elegant blend of textures and flavors makes it a delightful addition to your dessert repertoire. Whether for your next holiday gathering or a cozy evening at home, baking this tart will undoubtedly fill your kitchen with delicious aromas and your heart with joy. So why not indulge yourself? Gather your ingredients and bring this luscious recipe to life today!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using them in the tart.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this tart?
Yes! Substitute regular almond flour with a gluten-free blend to keep the tart flavorful and gluten-free.
3. How long will the tart stay fresh?
The tart is best enjoyed within three to five days when stored properly in the fridge.
4. Can I make the tart in advance?
Certainly! You can prepare the filling and crust separately a day beforehand, then assemble and bake just before serving.
5. What can I serve alongside the tart?
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, Greek yogurt, or a glass of dessert wine for an elegant touch.
Dive into this indulgent journey of flavors and textures with the Cranberry Frangipane Tart—let it be your new baking obsession!
Print
Cranberry Frangipane Tart
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
An exquisite dessert featuring a nutty almond filling topped with vibrant, tart cranberries, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole almonds
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 and 1/3 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 and 1/4 cups fresh cranberries
- Optional coarse sugar for sprinkling
- Optional sugared cranberries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Make the crust: Pulse the whole almonds, almond flour, sugar, and salt until finely chopped. Add melted butter and pulse until crumbly.
- Press the dough into a tart pan and bake for 10 minutes. Let cool.
- Make the frangipane: Beat softened butter and sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in almond flour, salt, extracts, lemon juice, and zest.
- Spread frangipane filling over the cooled crust.
- Dot with cranberries and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
- Bake for 38-40 minutes until edges are golden and cranberries are juicy. Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
- Cool for 20 minutes before removing from the pan. Garnish with sugared cranberries if desired.
Notes
Serve warm or at room temperature. Pairs well with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
