Cajun Tarts
Sweet and fruity Cajun Tarts feature blackberry preserves encased in flaky pastry, perfect for a delightful dessert or snack that appeals to berry lovers and pastry enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar together.
- Add egg and mix well.
- Sift flour and baking powder together; add to batter, alternating with milk and vanilla.
- Roll out on a floured board to 1/8-inch thickness.
- Cut into 5-inch circles.
- Place a spoonful of preserves on one half of each circle.
- Fold the pastry in half and seal with a fork.
- Place the tarts on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If blackberry preserves aren’t available, raspberry or strawberry preserves work well too. Make sure to roll the dough evenly to ensure even baking. Keep your work surface lightly floured to prevent sticking. Additionally, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling can enhance texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful Cajun tarts warm or at room temperature. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You might also enjoy them alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light dessert like Easy-Serve Salad Bundles for a well-rounded meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cajun tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, which will help maintain their crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Tarts contains roughly 710 calories, with 5g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value) and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 481mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the Cajun tarts?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked tarts. Assemble them and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, butter is a great substitute that will add rich flavor. Coconut oil can also be used for a dairy-free version. Both will change the texture slightly, so adjust baking times as needed.
How do I know when the tarts are done baking?
The tarts are done when they are golden brown on the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time, as ovens can vary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).