As the sun filters through my kitchen window, illuminating the flurry of activity, I can’t help but imagine the delightful aroma of Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets wafting through the air. There’s a special charm about these bite-sized treats that transports me straight to a cozy tearoom in Britain. With a buttery, flaky pastry cradling velvety almond frangipane and a glossy layer of rich cherry jam, they are both elegant and utterly satisfying.
Perfect for those afternoons when you’re craving something sweet without the fuss, these tarts are a quick and easy way to impress guests or simply indulge yourself. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or treating your family, each tartlet promises a burst of flavor that melds sweet and nutty tones seamlessly. Plus, with the flexibility to adapt the recipe for gluten and dairy-free needs, everyone can join in on this delightful taste of British heritage. Join me as we dive into making these sweet morsels that are sure to bring cheer to any occasion!
Why Love Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets?
Indulging in these Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets is like stepping into a charming British bakery.
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is simple, allowing both novice and experienced bakers to create something special.
Unique Flavor: The combination of almond frangipane and cherry jam creates a delightful blend that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Options: With suggestions for gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations, everyone can enjoy these treats.
Perfect for Sharing: Their petite size makes them ideal for parties, afternoon tea, or a sweet snack.
Nostalgic Comfort: Each bite delivers a taste of tradition, evoking memories of cozy tearooms.
Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlet Ingredients
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For the Pastry
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Plain (All-Purpose) Flour – Provides structure; use a gluten-free flour blend with 1 tsp of xanthan gum for a gluten-free version.
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Icing (Powdered) Sugar – Adds sweetness for the pastry; substitute with monk fruit sweetener for a sugar-free option.
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Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; replace with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
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Egg Yolks – Bind the pastry ingredients; use flaxseed meal mixed with water as a vegan substitute.
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Ice Water – Helps to combine the dough without melting the butter; always use cold water for best results.
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For the Frangipane Filling
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Caster Sugar – Sweetens the frangipane filling; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
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Ground Almonds – Gives the tart filling its characteristic flavor and texture; use sunflower seed flour for nut-free options.
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Egg – Provides moisture and richness; a flax egg works well as a vegan alternative.
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Almond Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; omit for a nut-free version.
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For Assembly
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Cherry Jam/Conserve – Adds a sweet and tart layer; consider raspberry jam for a delightful twist.
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Icing Sugar (for Topping) – Finishes the tart with sweetness; can be substituted with powdered monk fruit sweetener.
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Glacé Cherries – Decorative and sweet topping; fresh cherries or none work just as well for a simpler look.
These Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets are not just delightful to eat, but they are also a joy to make, allowing you to create sweet memories in your kitchen!
How to Make Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets
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Prepare the Pastry: In a large bowl, mix the plain flour and icing sugar together. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Then add egg yolks and ice water until the dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
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Roll and Shape: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the chilled pastry to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into circles and fit them into mini tart tins. Chill again for 15 minutes.
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Make the Frangipane: In a bowl, beat the softened butter with the caster sugar until creamy. Stir in the ground almonds, then add the egg and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
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Assemble Tartlets: Spread a layer of cherry jam in each pastry shell. Pipe or spoon the frangipane filling until it’s about ⅔ full, ensuring a lovely topping of jam is visible.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the tartlets for 10-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and slightly puffed.
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Cool and Ice: Once baked, allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, mix icing sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle over the tartlets. Top with glacé cherries if desired.
Optional: Dust with a sprinkle of icing sugar for a pretty finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets
Room Temperature: Store the tartlets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful flavor and texture.
Fridge: If you prefer to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but be aware that this may affect their crust’s crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked tartlets without icing for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving for the best results.
Reheating: To enjoy your mini Cherry Bakewell tartlets warm, reheat them in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-7 minutes. This will refresh their flaky texture beautifully!
Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlet Variations
Experimenting with these delightful tartlets opens up a world of possibilities to match your tastes or dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a luscious version everyone can enjoy. The flakiness remains, and the flavor shines just as bright!
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Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter instead of unsalted butter. These tartlets will still provide that buttery richness without the dairy, making them a crowd-pleaser for all.
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Nut-Free: Replace ground almonds with sunflower seed flour for an equally delicious filling. It’s an excellent alternative that keeps the tart’s essence while being nut-free.
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Sweet Swaps: Try swapping cherry jam with raspberry or apricot jam for a new fruit twist. Each alternative brings a unique flavor profile, adding variety to your tarts!
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Sugar-Free: Use monk fruit sweetener in place of icing sugar to create a lower calorie treat that suits a sugar-free lifestyle. You won’t miss a beat on taste!
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Vegan Delight: Replace the egg yolks and egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water for the pastry and frangipane, allowing plant-based eaters to indulge too!
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Flavored Frangipane: Experiment with adding lemon or orange zest to the frangipane for a zesty kick. This will elevate the overall flavor, providing a refreshing twist to your taste buds.
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Presentation Twist: Use mini muffin trays instead of tart tins for bite-sized miniatures. They’re super cute and perfect for parties or just enjoying at home!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to find your perfect combination! Each change transforms these tartlets into something uniquely yours.
Expert Tips for Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets
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Chill the Dough: Always chill your pastry before rolling it out. This helps keep the butter cold, resulting in a flaky texture for your mini Cherry Bakewell tartlets.
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Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision when measuring ingredients, especially the flour, for perfectly balanced tartlets that aren’t too dry or overly dense.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to avoid toughness in the pastry. Remember, gentle handling leads to that desired tender crunch!
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Frangipane Considerations: Ensure your butter for the frangipane is at room temperature for easy blending. This will create a smooth filling that rises beautifully while baking.
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Experiment with Jams: Feel free to swap out cherry jam for your favorite preserves or even a fruit compote for a unique twist on the classic flavor in your tartlets.
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Storing Tips: Keep leftover tartlets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze without icing for up to 2 months for a quick sweet treat anytime!
Make Ahead Options
These Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time while still delighting in homemade goodness! You can prepare the pastry and frangipane filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the pastry dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. The frangipane can also be made and kept in an airtight container for about 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the pastry and fill the tartlets as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked treats with minimal effort, just as delicious and charming as when they come straight from the oven!
What to Serve with Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets?
As you savor the sweetness of these Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets, consider complementing them with delightful pairings that enhance your experience.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich creaminess balances the tartness of the cherry jam, adding a luxurious touch.
- Fresh Berries: A medley of raspberries, strawberries, and blueberries brightens the plate and provides a refreshing contrast to the tarts.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a delightful texture, making each bite of tartlet even more indulgent.
- Earl Grey Tea: This fragrant brew, with its subtle bergamot notes, elevates the experience, perfect for an afternoon tea setting.
- Prosecco: A fizzy glass of bubbly adds an elegant flair to your gathering, making these tartlets feel especially festive.
- Dark Chocolate Dipping Sauce: For a decadent twist, drizzle or dip the tartlets in dark chocolate, enhancing their flavors beautifully.
- Chopped Pistachios: Sprinkling these over your baked tartlets adds a crunchy texture and a vibrant green contrast, enhancing their visual appeal.
- Almond Milk Latte: A warm, frothy drink that’s smooth and nutty, perfectly harmonizing with the almond flavor in the tartlets.
- Fruit Salad: A light and colorful mix of citrus and melon offers a zingy balance to the sweet tartlets, refreshing the palate.
- Lemon Sorbet: Its bright and zesty flavor provides a refreshing cleanse between bites, making each nibble of tart even more enjoyable.
Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cherries for my Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries, look for ripe, firm ones with a deep red color and shiny skin. Avoid any with dark spots or blemishes, as they may be overripe. Fresh cherries are ideal for topping, while quality cherry jam is essential for that sweet-tart flavor in the filling.
How should I store leftover Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets?
You can store your tartlets in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a longer storage option, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days, but keep in mind that refrigeration may soften the crispy crust. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets?
Absolutely! To freeze, first ensure the tartlets are completely cooled and do not have icing. Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight, and reheat gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-7 minutes to revive their flaky goodness!
What should I do if my pastry dough is too crumbly?
If your pastry seems too crumbly and won’t hold together, don’t worry! Just add a teaspoon of cold water at a time, mixing it gently until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it; a light touch will help maintain a tender crust!
Can I make these tartlets dairy-free?
Very easily! To adapt your Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets for dairy-free diets, simply replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter or coconut oil. For the icing, use a non-dairy milk alternative—almond or oat milk works beautifully!
Are there any nut-free alternatives for the frangipane?
Yes! If you need a nut-free version, substitute ground almonds with sunflower seed flour. The texture will be slightly different, but it still provides a lovely flavor. Just remember to mix in some vanilla extract for an added depth of taste!
These FAQs are here to guide you through the process and ensure your baking journey is as enjoyable as the sweet treats you’ll create!
Mini Cherry Bakewell Tartlets: Your New Favorite Sweet Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pastry: In a large bowl, mix plain flour and icing sugar together. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Then add egg yolks and ice water until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll and Shape: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the chilled pastry to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into circles and fit them into mini tart tins. Chill again for 15 minutes.
- Make the Frangipane: In a bowl, beat softened butter with caster sugar until creamy. Stir in ground almonds, then add egg and almond extract. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble Tartlets: Spread a layer of cherry jam in each pastry shell. Pipe or spoon the frangipane filling until it's about ⅔ full, ensuring a lovely topping of jam is visible.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake tartlets for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Cool and Ice: Once baked, allow tartlets to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Once completely cool, mix icing sugar with a splash of milk and drizzle over the tartlets. Top with glacé cherries if desired.