Macadamia Coconut Tart

Prep: 30 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A rich, buttery tart filled with toasted coconut, macadamia nuts, and a hint of bourbon, perfect for special occasions or indulgent dessert moments.

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Ingredients

  • tart pastry for 9-inch tart shell
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup macadamia nuts, coarsely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons bourbon or rum
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 teaspoons freshly grated lemon zest
  • 1/2 cup coconut, lightly toasted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Roll out the pastry and line a 9-inch tart pan or individual tart pans with it.
  3. Bake the crust partially until it looks dry but remains very pale.
  4. Cool the crust completely before filling.
  5. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F.
  6. Prepare the filling by combining unsalted butter, heavy cream, sugar, lemon zest, bourbon or rum, and vanilla extract in a saucepan.
  7. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
  8. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped macadamia nuts and toasted coconut.
  9. Pour the filling into the cooled tart shell.
  10. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until the filling is set and golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a flakier crust, consider using a food processor to mix the pastry ingredients quickly. You can substitute the macadamia nuts with pecans or walnuts if desired, keeping in mind that this will alter the flavor profile. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon or rum and use vanilla extract instead. Lightly toasting the coconut enhances its flavor significantly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Macadamia Coconut Tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. A fresh fruit salad on the side, perhaps with seasonal berries, adds a refreshing contrast. This tart also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings or dessert after a meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help restore the texture of the tart without overcooking the filling.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Macadamia Coconut Tart contains roughly 246 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 14g fat.

246 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 2.6g 5% DV
Total Fat 13.6g 17% DV
Carbs 20.1g 7% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 7.5g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 75.1mg 3% DV
Potassium 113.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 21.3mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 66.1mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 18.6mg 1% DV
Iron 0.8mg 4% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Tree nuts

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 tart crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart crust a day in advance. After baking it partially, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day you plan to serve the tart.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you need a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of whole milk and melted butter. However, using these alternatives may result in a slightly less rich flavor and texture in the filling.

Can I use fresh coconut instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh coconut, but it is crucial to ensure it is finely grated and lightly toasted to enhance the flavor. Fresh coconut adds a different texture and moisture level, so adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure the filling sets properly.

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).

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