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Fresh Berry Tart with Creamy Pastry Filling

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A quick and easy fresh berry tart featuring a silky cream cheese filling and a buttery shortcrust pastry, topped with a colorful mix of fresh berries. Perfect for any occasion and ready in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pre-made shortcrust pastry sheet (about 9 inches / 23 cm diameter) or homemade if preferred
  • Butter or non-stick spray for greasing
  • 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream or whipping cream
  • 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional)
  • 1 cup (150 g) strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) blueberries
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) raspberries
  • 1/2 cup (75 g) blackberries
  • Optional: 1 tbsp apricot jam, warmed (for glazing the berries)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your tart pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Roll out the pastry: If using store-bought, gently press the pastry into the tart pan, trimming excess edges. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent air bubbles.
  3. Bake the crust: Place parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights, dried beans, or rice to keep it flat. Bake for 15 minutes; then remove weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes until golden and crisp. Let it cool completely.
  4. Prepare the creamy filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth (about 2 minutes). Add vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice, mixing well.
  5. Whip the heavy cream: In a separate bowl, whip cream until soft peaks form (about 3-4 minutes). Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture with a spatula until fully combined and silky.
  6. Assemble the tart: Spoon the creamy filling into the cooled tart shell, smoothing the surface with a spatula.
  7. Arrange the berries: Artistically place the berries on top—mix colors and sizes for visual appeal. Make sure the berries are dry to avoid sogginess.
  8. Optional glaze: Warm apricot jam in a small saucepan or microwave until runny, then brush lightly over the berries for a shiny finish and a hint of sweetness.
  9. Chill: Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld and filling set.

Notes

Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother filling. Chill the crust fully before adding filling to prevent sogginess. Dry berries well before arranging. Whip cream to soft peaks to avoid overwhipping. The tart can be assembled a few hours ahead and chilled. Use apricot jam glaze for a shiny finish and to seal moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: fresh berry tart, creamy pastry filling, easy berry tart, quick dessert, shortcrust pastry, cream cheese filling, summer dessert, berry dessert

Find it online: https://elvafood.com/fresh-berry-tart-recipe-easy-homemade-creamy-pastry-filling-delight/