This simple egg tarts recipe is an uncomplicated, delightful dessert you can whip up with basic pantry ingredients. The classic sweet, creamy filling is encased in a crumbly, buttery crust that's light and satisfying. Ideal for a mid-day sweet treat or after-dinner dessert, these egg tarts are sure to be a hit amongst both children and adults.
The key ingredient in this recipe is the evaporated milk which gives the filling its velvety, smooth texture. If you don't commonly stock evaporated milk, you can easily find it in the baking aisle of your local supermarket. It's worth noting that it is different from condensed milk, which has sugar added to it.
Simple Egg Tarts Recipe Ingredients
All-purpose flour: This is the base of your tart crust, providing structure and texture.
Salt: A pinch to enhance the flavors of your tart crust.
Butter: Gives your tart crust a rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture.
Egg: Acts as a binder for the tart crust.
Water: To bring the dough together.
Confectioners' sugar: Used for the sweet filling.
White sugar: Adds sweetness to the syrup for the filling.
Evaporated milk: Gives the filling its creamy, velvety texture.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor to the filling.
One reader, Charles Orr says:
The simple egg tarts recipe was a game-changer for me! The crust was perfectly flaky, and the filling was just the right amount of sweetness. It was easy to follow and the end result was absolutely delicious. I'll definitely be making these again!
Techniques Required for Making Simple Egg Tarts
How to make the crusts: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl, then blend in butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Beat the egg with cold water in a small bowl, then stir the egg mixture into the flour mixture to form a soft dough. Wrap the dough with plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Divide the dough in half, roll each half out to ⅛-inch thickness, and cut out rounds using a 3½-inch fluted round cookie cutter. Press the dough into lightly greased 3-inch tart pans.
How to make the filling: In a saucepan over low heat, stir water and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Measure 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the resulting syrup and set aside to cool. In a large bowl, combine eggs, evaporated milk, and vanilla, then beat until smooth. Strain into the reserved syrup and mix well. Pour the filling into the prepared tart shells.
How to bake the egg tarts: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set.
How to serve: Enjoy the egg tarts once they are baked and cooled.
How To Make Simple Egg Tarts
The silky-smooth custard filling is snugged in flaky crusts for creamy egg tarts! Baked ’til golden, enjoy sweet treats made with flour, eggs, and milk.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Crusts:
- 2cupsall-purpose flour
- 1pinchsalt
- 10tbspbutter,diced
- 1egg
- 2tbspcold water
For Filling:
- ¼cupconfectioners’ sugar
- 1cupwater
- ¾cupwhite sugar
- 3eggs
- ⅜cupevaporated milk
- ¼tspvanilla extract
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Crusts:
-
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt together. Blend in butter with a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, beat the egg with the cold water.
-
Stir the egg mixture into the flour mixture to form a soft dough. Wrap with plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
-
Divide dough in half. Roll each half out to ⅛-inch thickness. Using a 3½-inch fluted round cookie cutter, cut out 22 rounds. Press dough into lightly greased 3-inch tart pans.
Filling:
-
In a saucepan over low heat, stir water and sugar until sugar dissolves. Measure 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of the resulting syrup and set aside to cool.
-
In a large bowl, combine eggs, evaporated milk and vanilla. Beat until smooth. Strain into reserved syrup and mix well. Pour into prepared tart shells.
-
Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown and filling is set.
-
Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 468.33kcal
- Fat: 25.14g
- Saturated Fat: 15.15g
- Trans Fat: 0.21g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.54g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.01g
- Carbohydrates: 42.22g
- Fiber: 0.31g
- Sugar: 33.51g
- Protein: 19.37g
- Cholesterol: 116.04mg
- Sodium: 286.44mg
- Calcium: 665.81mg
- Potassium: 788.29mg
- Iron: 1.15mg
- Vitamin A: 220.46µg
- Vitamin C: 4.79mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Egg Tarts
When making the crust for your egg tarts, it's crucial to keep the butter cold. This ensures that the crust will be flaky and tender. If the butter melts before baking, the crust can become tough. To prevent this, you can freeze the butter for about 15 minutes before using it. Also, when incorporating the butter into the flour, try to work quickly and avoid overworking the dough. This will also help to keep the butter from melting.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Egg Tarts
Prep ahead: Prepare the tart crusts and filling the night before and refrigerate separately. This will save time on the day of baking.
Use store-bought crusts: If you're short on time, consider using pre-made tart crusts to cut down on prep time.
Organize ingredients: Before you start, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Bake in batches: If your oven space allows, consider baking the tarts in batches to save time and ensure even cooking.
Invest in tart pans: Using tart pans with removable bottoms can help speed up the process of removing the tarts after baking.
Multi-task: While the tart crusts are chilling, use that time to prepare the filling to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Simple Egg Tarts Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative, adding a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the crusts.
butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative, providing a subtle coconut flavor to the crusts.
egg - Substitute with flaxseed egg: To make a flaxseed egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs in the crusts.
confectioners' sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener in the filling, adding a rich and distinct flavor.
white sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in the filling, providing a unique flavor and a touch of floral sweetness.
evaporated milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, adding a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor to the filling.
How to Beautifully Present Egg Tarts
Elevate the tart crust: Create a delicate and flaky tart crust by using high-quality butter and ensuring it is evenly distributed. The crust should be golden brown and perfectly baked to provide a delightful crunch with every bite.
Garnish with a dusting of confectioners' sugar: Sprinkle a light and even layer of confectioners' sugar over the egg tarts to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness to the presentation.
Incorporate a drizzle of vanilla-infused syrup: Drizzle a small amount of vanilla-infused syrup around the edge of the plate to add a subtle sweetness and a visually appealing element to the dish.
Arrange the tarts on a bed of fresh berries: Present the egg tarts on a carefully arranged bed of fresh, vibrant berries to add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tarts.
Use a fine sieve for a dusting of cocoa powder: Lightly dust the plate with a fine cocoa powder using a sieve to add a touch of sophistication and a hint of chocolate flavor to the overall presentation.
Add a dollop of whipped cream: Place a small, artfully swirled dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of the plate to provide a creamy and indulgent accompaniment to the egg tarts.
Incorporate edible flowers for a touch of elegance: Garnish the plate with carefully selected edible flowers to add a delicate and visually stunning element, elevating the overall presentation of the egg tarts.
Essential Tools for Making Egg Tarts
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, or stirring various components of a recipe.
- Pastry cutter: A pastry cutter is a handheld tool with several parallel blades used to blend solid fat into flour when making pastry dough.
- Rolling pin: A rolling pin is a cylindrical kitchen tool used to flatten and shape dough for pastry, cookies, and other baked goods.
- Fluted round cookie cutter: A fluted round cookie cutter is a tool used to cut out dough in a circular shape with a decorative fluted edge, commonly used for making tart shells or cookies.
- Tart pans: Tart pans are shallow, round, fluted baking dishes with removable bottoms, used for baking and serving tarts, quiches, and other pastry-based dishes.
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a handle and a lid, typically used for heating or cooking sauces, soups, and other liquid-based dishes.
- Strainer: A strainer, also known as a sieve, is a kitchen tool used to separate liquid from solid components or to sift dry ingredients such as flour or powdered sugar.
- Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food by surrounding it with dry heat, essential for cooking various dishes including egg tarts.
Storing and Freezing Homemade Egg Tarts
- Allow the egg tarts to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the crust soggy.
- To store, place the cooled egg tarts in an airtight container. Separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze, wrap each cooled egg tart individually in plastic wrap, ensuring a tight seal. Place the wrapped tarts in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, separating each layer with parchment paper. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 1 month.
- To thaw frozen egg tarts, transfer them from the freezer to the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight. Do not thaw at room temperature, as this may cause the crust to become soggy.
- To reheat refrigerated or thawed egg tarts, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tarts on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual tarts for 10-15 seconds, but the crust may not be as crisp.
- For best results, consume the egg tarts within a day of thawing or reheating, as the quality may deteriorate over time.
How To Reheat Leftover Egg Tarts
The best way to reheat leftover egg tarts is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tarts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method helps to preserve the flaky texture of the crust and ensures that the custard filling remains smooth and creamy.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat the tarts in the microwave. Place one or two tarts on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 15-20 seconds. Check the tarts and continue heating in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the filling to become rubbery.
For a crispy crust, you can also reheat the tarts in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tarts in the basket, leaving some space between each one. Heat the tarts for 3-4 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the crust is crispy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat the tarts as well. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tarts on the wire rack. Heat them for 4-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and the crust is crispy.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to let the reheated tarts cool for a minute or two before serving, as the filling can be quite hot. Enjoy your leftover egg tarts as a delicious snack or dessert!
Interesting Fact About Egg Tarts
The egg tart is a popular pastry in Hong Kong, Macau, and other parts of Asia. It is believed to have been inspired by the Portuguese pastel de nata. The combination of the flaky crust and the creamy egg custard filling makes it a delightful treat enjoyed by many.
Is Making Egg Tarts at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this simple egg tarts recipe is quite high. The ingredients are commonly found in households, making it a budget-friendly option. The use of basic pantry staples and simple baking techniques keeps the cost low. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it an economical choice for a homemade dessert. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability and delightful taste.
Are Egg Tarts Healthy or Unhealthy?
The simple egg tarts recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The crust is made with all-purpose flour and a significant amount of butter, which are high in calories and saturated fat.
- The filling contains a substantial amount of sugar, both confectioners' and white sugar, which can contribute to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues when consumed in excess.
- Evaporated milk is used, which is higher in calories and fat compared to regular milk.
- The recipe lacks any nutritious ingredients like fruits, vegetables, or whole grains.
However, there are ways to make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content.
- Reduce the amount of butter in the crust and replace some of it with Greek yogurt or olive oil.
- Cut down on the sugar in the filling by using a sugar substitute or reducing the quantity.
- Instead of evaporated milk, use low-fat or skim milk to decrease the calorie and fat content.
- Add some fresh fruit to the filling, such as diced apples or berries, to increase the nutritional value and fiber.
- Experiment with using a nut-based crust (like almond flour) for a gluten-free and protein-rich option.
Editor's Opinion on This Egg Tart Recipe
The simple egg tarts recipe is a delightful treat that combines a buttery crust with a creamy, vanilla-infused filling. The crust is perfectly flaky and the filling is rich and smooth, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. The use of evaporated milk adds a luscious creaminess to the filling, while the vanilla extract enhances the overall aroma and taste. The recipe is straightforward and yields delicious results, making it a perfect choice for a sweet indulgence. Whether served as a dessert or a snack, these egg tarts are sure to impress with their simplicity and delectable taste.
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Why trust this Simple Egg Tarts Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flaky pastry and a rich, creamy egg custard. The crust is made with butter for a tender, buttery texture, while the filling features a blend of evaporated milk and vanilla extract for a luscious flavor. The careful process of creating the syrup for the filling ensures a smooth, sweet consistency. With a perfect balance of sweetness and a golden, flaky crust, this egg tart recipe promises a delightful treat for any occasion.
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