Mini Raspberry Almond Tarts

Indulge in the delightful fusion of buttery almond crust and luscious raspberry filling with these Mini Raspberry Almond Tarts. Perfectly portioned for individual enjoyment, these tarts are an elegant addition to any dessert table, combining rich flavors with a tender texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Elegant Presentation: Their miniature size makes them ideal for serving at gatherings, adding a touch of sophistication to your spread.

• Flavor Harmony: The nutty almond crust pairs beautifully with the sweet and slightly tart raspberry filling, creating a balanced and delectable treat.

• Make-Ahead Convenience: These tarts can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy your event without last-minute baking stress.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup almond flour

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

• 1/2 cup raspberry jam or preserves

• Powdered sugar for dusting

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a mini muffin pan with mini paper liners to ensure easy removal of the tarts after baking.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a food processor, blend together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.

3. Incorporate Butter and Extracts: Add the cubed butter, vanilla extract, and almond extract to the dry mixture. Pulse until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.

4. Form Dough Balls: Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead gently until smooth. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into small balls and place each into the prepared muffin liners.

5. Create Indentations: Using the back of a wooden spoon or your thumb, press an indentation into the center of each dough ball, about 1/4 inch deep, to hold the raspberry filling.

6. Add Raspberry Filling: Spoon the raspberry jam into a plastic zip-top bag, squeeze out the air, and seal. Cut a small corner off the bag and pipe the jam into each indentation, slightly overfilling as the jam will settle during baking.

7. Bake the Tarts: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the tarts to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes before removing to prevent crumbling.

8. Finish with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, dust the tarts with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 24 mini tarts

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Alternative Fillings: Substitute raspberry jam with other fruit preserves such as strawberry, apricot, or blueberry to create different flavor profiles.

• Nut Toppings: Sprinkle slivered almonds on top of the jam before baking for added crunch and enhanced almond flavor.

• Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: These tarts can be frozen for up to one month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

• Reheating: Enjoy these tarts at room temperature or warm them slightly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to refresh their texture.

FAQs

What is the texture of these tarts?

The tarts feature a tender, buttery crust with a slightly crisp edge, complemented by a sweet and slightly tart raspberry filling.

Can I use fresh raspberries instead of jam?

Yes, you can use fresh raspberries. Toss them in a bit of sugar and cornstarch before placing them into the dough indentations to prevent excess moisture during baking.

Is almond flour necessary, or can I use only all-purpose flour?

Almond flour contributes to the nutty flavor and tender texture of the crust. However, if necessary, you can use only all-purpose flour, keeping in mind that the almond flavor will be less pronounced.

How do I prevent the tarts from sticking to the pan?

Using mini paper liners in the muffin pan helps prevent sticking and allows for easy removal of the tarts after baking.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

What other extracts can I use for flavoring?

If you prefer a different flavor, you can substitute the almond extract with lemon or orange extract for a citrus twist.

How can I make these tarts vegan?

To make these tarts vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based butter substitute and ensure that the sugar and jam used are vegan-friendly.

Can I add a glaze instead of powdered sugar?

Yes, you can drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled tarts for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Are these tarts suitable for freezing?

Yes, these tarts freeze well. Ensure they are completely cooled before freezing and thaw them at room temperature before serving.

How do I achieve a more pronounced almond flavor?

To enhance the almond flavor, consider adding a small amount of almond paste to the dough or increasing the almond extract slightly.

Conclusion

Mini Raspberry Almond Tarts are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of almonds with the sweet and tangy taste of raspberries. Their elegant appearance and delectable taste make them a perfect choice for various occasions, from casual gatherings to formal events. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these tarts are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.