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Cherry Vanilla Shortbread Tart: A Deliciously Elegant Dessert


  • Author: Elsa
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 tart (8 slices) 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This cherry tart features a buttery shortbread crust and a simple stovetop cherry filling infused with lemon and vanilla. Elegant and easy, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or a cozy treat.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Shortbread Crust:
  • 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • Cherry Filling:
  • 2 cups cherries (pitted, fresh or thawed frozen)
  • ⅓ cup sugar
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • Optional: Almond extract, slivered almonds, sea salt flakes, powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Make the Shortbread Crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles crumbs. Press evenly into a 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom. Chill for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and blind bake with weights for 15 minutes. Let cool.
  2. Make the Cherry Filling: In a saucepan, combine cherries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon zest. Simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened. Stir in vanilla and optional almond extract. Let cool slightly.
  3. Assemble and Bake: Pour filling into the pre-baked crust. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.
  4. Serve: Dust with powdered sugar or top with whipped cream. Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

Notes

Add a splash of almond extract to enhance flavor. Top with slivered almonds and sea salt flakes for a crunchy, salty finish. This tart is freezer-friendly and best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: European

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 85mg
  • Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg