Tea Tarts
Tea Tarts are delightful pastries featuring a flaky crust filled with sweet jam, perfect for tea time or casual gatherings. Their crisp exterior and fruity center make them a charming treat for all ages, especially those who enjoy homemade baked goods with a touch of nostalgia and comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak yeast in warm water until dissolved.
- Mix dry ingredients and shortening as for pie crust.
- Combine everything as for pie crust. Mix until just blended and chill for several hours or overnight.
- Roll on a sugared board to 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into squares.
- Place a spoonful of jam in the center of each square and fold into a three-cornered shape.
- Press edges together to seal.
- Place on pans and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure the shortening is cold and mix until just combined. If you don't have thick sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute. You can experiment with different jams or even try a mix of jams for unique flavors. Consider rolling the dough slightly thicker for a softer tart or thinner for a crispier texture, similar to Sunflower Seed Cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These tea tarts are perfect for afternoon tea or as a delightful dessert. Serve them warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They pair beautifully with a cup of herbal tea or coffee. Consider serving alongside a fruit platter for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover tea tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tea Tarts contains roughly 324 calories, with 7g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value), and potassium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 552mg per serving (24% 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 use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, though the texture may be slightly denser. Gluten-free flour blends can also work, but ensure they contain a binding agent to mimic the elasticity of gluten.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the tarts?
If you prefer a sweeter tart, consider adding a bit of sugar to the dough or using a sweeter jam. You can also dust the finished tarts with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness that complements the tartness of the jam.
What types of jams work best for these tarts?
While dark berry jams like blackberry or raspberry are recommended, you can use any fruit jam or preserve you enjoy. Apricot or peach can add a delightful twist, so feel free to get creative with your favorite flavors.
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).