Cheese Whole Wheat Short Pastry Tartlet Shells
Delicate whole wheat tartlet shells infused with Parmesan, mustard, and paprika, perfect for savory appetizers or elegant petits fours, appealing to cheese and spice lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine whole wheat pastry flour, grated Parmesan cheese, dry mustard, paprika, and ground red pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Add cold unsalted butter and blend with fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse meal.
- Add the egg yolk and water mixture and blend well, working the dough as little as possible.
- If the dough is too dry, add more ice water one tablespoon at a time and mix until combined.
- Turn the dough out onto an unfloured work surface and quickly form into a ball.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier texture, ensure your butter is very cold and handle the dough minimally. If you don't have whole wheat pastry flour, you can substitute with all-purpose flour, but it may alter the flavor slightly. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the overall taste, especially if you're using unsalted butter. If short on time, you can use a store-bought pastry crust as a quick alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These tartlet shells are perfect for filling with savory mixtures like quiches or creamy fillings, making them ideal for brunch or parties. They pair beautifully with fresh salads or can be served alongside a selection of dips. For a delightful dessert option, consider filling them with fresh fruits and whipped cream, or even a scoop of ice cream for a delicious twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tartlet shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Whole Wheat Short Pastry Tartlet Shells contains roughly 364 calories, with 5g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (170% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and store it wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out.
What can I use as a filling for these tartlet shells?
These tartlet shells are versatile and can be filled with various mixtures. Consider savory options like spinach and feta cheese or a classic quiche filling. For a sweet touch, try fruit preserves or a creamy custard. Be creative and experiment with your favorite ingredients!
How do I prevent the shells from shrinking while baking?
To prevent shrinking, ensure you chill the dough thoroughly before baking. Additionally, you can use pie weights or dried beans to weigh down the shells while they bake, which helps maintain their shape. Avoid overworking the dough, as that can also lead to shrinkage.
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).