Crispy Strawberry Rhubarb Custard Tart: A Rustic, Textured Delight

Springtime brings an abundance of fresh, seasonal ingredients, and nothing embodies that more than a Crispy Strawberry Rhubarb Custard Tart. This dessert is a perfect blend of textures and flavors, from the crispy, buttery crust to the creamy custard filling, complemented by the tartness of rhubarb and the sweetness of ripe strawberries. It’s the ultimate way to showcase two of the season’s most beloved fruits in one indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 tbsp ice water

For the Custard Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

For the Strawberry Rhubarb Filling:

• 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 1/2 cups rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tart Crust

Start by preparing the crust. In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and work it into the flour mixture with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Roll Out the Dough

Once chilled, roll the dough out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it into a tart pan, pressing it into the sides. Trim any excess dough and use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust a few times to prevent puffing during baking. Refrigerate again for 15 minutes.

3. Blind Bake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove the parchment paper and weights, then bake for another 5 minutes until the base is fully cooked. Set aside to cool.

4. Prepare the Custard Filling

In a saucepan, combine heavy cream and whole milk, heating it over medium until just about to simmer. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the hot milk mixture into the eggs while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Once combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, whisking continuously, until it thickens. Remove from heat and add cornstarch to help it set further. Let the custard cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Strawberry Rhubarb Filling

In a separate saucepan, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the fruit begins to soften, about 5 minutes. Let this filling cool to room temperature.

6. Assemble the Tart

Once all the components have cooled, spread the strawberry rhubarb mixture evenly over the bottom of the pre-baked tart crust. Then pour the custard filling over the fruit mixture, smoothing it out with a spatula.

7. Bake the Tart

Return the tart to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. Let the tart cool completely before removing it from the pan.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once the tart has cooled, garnish it with fresh mint leaves and edible flowers for a beautiful touch, as shown in the image. Serve slices of this delightful tart with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Dessert:

• Textural Contrast: The crispy crust combined with the smooth, creamy custard and the juicy, tender fruit filling creates the perfect balance of textures in every bite.
• Seasonal Flavors: The tartness of rhubarb paired with sweet strawberries is the ideal springtime combination. It’s a dessert that celebrates the best of the season.
• Elegant Presentation: This tart is perfect for impressing guests at any gathering or enjoying as a special treat with your afternoon tea.
• Simple Yet Luxurious: Although it looks and tastes like a gourmet dessert, it’s made with easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps.

This Crispy Strawberry Rhubarb Custard Tart is an elegant and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of spring. The buttery, flaky crust, paired with the creamy custard and vibrant fruit, makes for an indulgent treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as a quiet afternoon snack, this tart is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!