Mini Fruit Tart Perfect for Delivery

Mini fruit tarts are delightful pastries that combine a crisp, buttery crust with a luscious cream filling, topped with an array of fresh fruits. Their individual serving size and vibrant presentation make them an excellent choice for delivery, ensuring both aesthetic appeal and freshness upon arrival.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini fruit tarts offer a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The tender crust pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, while the fresh fruits add a burst of natural sweetness and color. Their petite size makes them perfect for portion control, and their elegant appearance is sure to impress recipients, making them ideal for special occasions or as thoughtful gifts.

Ingredients

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

• For the Tart Shells:

  • All-purpose flour

  • Unsalted butter

  • Granulated sugar

  • Egg yolk

  • Cold water

  • Salt

• For the Filling:

  • Cream cheese or pastry cream

  • Powdered sugar

  • Vanilla extract

  • Lemon juice (optional)

• For the Topping:

  • Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, raspberries)

  • Apricot preserves or glaze (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Tart Shells:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   • Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.

   • Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit mini tart pans or a mini muffin tin. Press the dough into the molds and chill for about 30 minutes.

   • Preheat the oven and bake the tart shells until golden brown. Allow them to cool completely before filling.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • If using cream cheese, beat it with powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy.

   • If opting for pastry cream, ensure it is well-chilled and smooth before using.

3. Assemble the Tarts:

   • Spoon or pipe the filling into the cooled tart shells, smoothing the top.

   • Arrange slices of fresh fruit on top of the filling in a decorative pattern.

   • For added shine and preservation, gently brush the fruits with warmed apricot preserves or a clear glaze.

4. Serve or Package for Delivery:

   • If serving immediately, place the tarts on a serving platter.

   • For delivery, arrange the tarts in a sturdy box with compartments to prevent movement and damage during transit.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 mini tarts. Preparation time is about 1 hour, with an additional 30 minutes for chilling the dough and 15 minutes for baking. Total time from start to finish is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Add a layer of melted chocolate to the bottom of the tart shells before adding the filling for a rich twist.

• Nutty Flavor: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds over the fruit topping for added crunch and flavor.

• Different Fillings: Experiment with flavored pastry creams or curds, such as lemon curd or chocolate ganache, to diversify the tarts.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store assembled tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For optimal freshness, it’s best to consume them within 24 hours.

• Reheating: These tarts are best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Reheating is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the filling and fruit.

FAQs

How do I prevent the tart shells from becoming soggy?

To prevent soggy crusts, ensure the tart shells are fully baked and cooled before adding the filling. Applying a thin layer of melted chocolate or a light egg wash to the interior of the shells can also create a barrier that helps maintain crispness.

Can I make the tart shells in advance?

Yes, you can bake the tart shells ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days before filling and serving.

What fruits are best for topping these tarts?

Opt for firm, fresh fruits such as berries, kiwi, and citrus segments. Avoid overly juicy fruits that may release moisture and soften the filling.

Is it possible to use store-bought pastry dough?

Certainly, using pre-made pastry dough can save time. Follow the package instructions for baking, and proceed with filling and topping as directed.

How can I ensure the fruits remain fresh during delivery?

To maintain fruit freshness during delivery, choose fruits that are less prone to browning and apply a light glaze to protect them. Additionally, ensure the tarts are kept cool and are packaged securely to minimize movement.

Can these tarts be frozen?

It’s not recommended to freeze assembled fruit tarts, as the texture of the filling and fruits may be compromised upon thawing. However, unfilled baked tart shells can be frozen for up to a month.

What alternatives can I use for the filling?

Besides cream cheese or pastry cream, consider fillings like mascarpone mixed with honey, lemon curd, or even a light whipped ganache for different flavor profiles.

How do I achieve a professional appearance for the tarts?

For an elegant presentation, uniformly cut the fruits and arrange them symmetrically. Applying a glaze not only adds shine but also gives a polished, professional look.

Are there gluten-free options for the tart shells?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure all other ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I add flavorings to the tart dough?

Incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, or a hint of spices like cinnamon into the dough can add subtle, complementary flavors to the crust.

Conclusion

Mini fruit tarts are a versatile and elegant dessert, perfect for various occasions and particularly suited for delivery due to their individual portions and sturdy crusts. By following this recipe, you can create delightful treats that combine the richness of a buttery crust, the creaminess of a sweet filling, and the freshness of seasonal fruits, ensuring a memorable experience for all who indulge.

Print

Mini Fruit Tart Perfect for Delivery

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Sarra
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes (plus cooling)
• Yield: 12 mini tarts 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: French-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

These mini fruit tarts perfect for delivery are elegant, bite-sized desserts with a buttery crust, silky vanilla pastry cream, and vibrant fresh fruit on top. Ideal for gift boxes, dessert catering, or bakery orders—they’re sturdy, travel-friendly, and irresistibly beautiful.

---

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• For the tart shells:
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 1–2 tablespoons cold water
• For the pastry cream:
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Toppings:
• Assorted fresh fruits (berries, kiwi, mango, grapes)
• Optional: apricot jam for glaze

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Make the tart shells:
• In a food processor, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add egg yolk and cold water, pulse until dough forms.
• Press dough into mini tart pans and prick bottoms with a fork. Chill for 20 minutes.
• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake tart shells for 15–18 minutes until golden. Let cool completely.
• Prepare the pastry cream:
• In a saucepan, heat milk until steaming.
• In a bowl, whisk sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks. Slowly whisk in hot milk.
• Return mixture to the pan and cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until thickened.
• Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla. Cool completely, then refrigerate until firm.
• Assemble the tarts:
• Spoon or pipe pastry cream into cooled tart shells.
• Arrange fresh fruit on top.
• (Optional) Warm apricot jam and brush over fruit for a shiny glaze.
• Chill before packaging for delivery.

---

Notes

• Use firm, fresh fruit that won’t easily bruise during delivery.
• Glazing helps keep fruit fresh and vibrant.
• Tarts can be assembled 1 day ahead and stored in the fridge.
• Use tart boxes or clamshells for secure transport.

---

Nutrition

• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 70mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 75mg