Plum Tart with Crumb Topping

This delightful plum tart combines the fresh sweetness of ripe plums with a luscious apricot jam and a buttery crumb topping for a dessert that's both pleasing to the eye and delightful to the palate. The melt-in-your-mouth pastry is made with sour cream, providing a subtle tanginess that enhances the overall flavor. As the tart bakes, the aroma of plums and vanilla fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible sense of anticipation. The recipe is easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced bakers. It takes less than an hour to prepare and bake, allowing you to enjoy freshly baked goodness in no time. This tart is versatile; you can experiment with different jams or fruit combinations. Its rustic, homemade look makes it a charming addition to any dessert table, and it pairs beautifully with fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This is an ideal dessert for a summer gathering or a cozy autumn afternoon. Share this delectable creation with family and friends, and watch as it becomes a beloved treat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 500 g plums
• 350 g flour
• 200 g apricot jam (or any other jam)
• 150 g sour cream
• 150 g butter (divided)
• 100 g sugar (divided)
• 2 tsp vanilla sugar (divided)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• **1 egg yolk

Crumb Topping:

• 50 g butter (softened)
• 100 g flour
• 50 g sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 55 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Butter: Melt 100 g of the butter and allow it to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine 50 g sugar, 1 tsp vanilla sugar, sour cream, and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
3. Form the Dough: Add the melted butter, 250 g flour, and baking powder to the sour cream mixture. Knead to form a dough.
4. Roll the Dough: Roll the dough slightly larger than your baking pan and press it into the pan, folding the edges up to form a rim (the dough will shrink slightly during baking).
5. Pre-Bake the Crust: Prick the crust with a fork and place it in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Bake for about 15 minutes.
6. Prepare the Plums: While the crust bakes, halve the plums and remove the pits.
7. Make the Crumb Topping: In a bowl, use your fingers to rub together the softened butter, remaining 100 g flour, 50 g sugar, 1 tsp vanilla sugar, and egg yolk until crumbly.
8. Assemble the Tart: Spread the apricot jam evenly over the pre-baked crust.
9. Add Plums: Arrange the plum halves on top of the jam layer.
10. Add Crumb Topping: Evenly sprinkle the crumb topping over the plums.
11. Bake the Tart: Place the assembled tart back in the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until the crumb topping is golden brown.
12. Final Touches: Once baked, the tart can be dusted with decorative sugar if desired.
13. Cooling: Allow the tart to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.
14. Serving: Slice and serve the tart warm with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or ice cream.
15. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
16. Reheat: Reheat refrigerated slices in the oven before serving for the best texture.
17. Substitute Fruits: Consider using peaches or apricots for a different fruit base.
18. Jam Choices: Substitute apricot jam with raspberry or strawberry for varied flavors.
19. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour for gluten-sensitive individuals.
20. Vegan Alternative: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flaxseed egg instead of egg yolk.

Tips

• Butter: Ensure the butter is adequately cooled before adding to the mixture to prevent prematurely melting other ingredients.
• Fruit Freshness: Use ripe plums for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Uniform Slices: Slice the plums uniformly for even cooking.
• Optional Sugar Dusting: After baking, a sprinkle of powdered sugar can add a lovely finishing touch.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 4 g
• Fats: 18 g
• Carbs: 42 g

Variations

• Fruit: Substitute plums with other seasonal fruits like peaches, nectarines, or cherries.
• Jams: Try using citrus marmalade for a tangier tart.
• Texture: For added crunch, mix chopped nuts into the crumb topping.
• Sweetness: Adjust sugar levels to preference or dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of dessert wine.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.
• Perfect to accompany an afternoon tea party or a brunch gathering.

Best Places

1. Cafe de la Presse - Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with a fine selection of pastries, including delightful tarts. Location: 352 Grant Ave, San Francisco, USA.

2. Le Meurice - A blend of tradition and modernity, offering exquisite desserts in an opulent setting. Location: 228 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.

3. Cafe Sacher - Famous for classic cakes and tarts, a must-visit for dessert lovers. Location: Philharmoniker Strasse 4, Vienna, Austria.

4. The Tart Tin - Known for artisan tarts and baked goods made with local ingredients. Location: 20 Carroll Street, Wellington, New Zealand.

5. Betty’s Tea Rooms - A charming spot for afternoon tea with a selection of handmade cakes and tarts. Location: 1 Parliament St, Harrogate, UK.

6. Demel - Offering both history and sweetness in every bite, a beloved patisserie. Location: Kohlmarkt 14, Vienna, Austria.

7. Dominique Ansel Bakery - Innovative desserts that push the boundaries of flavor. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, USA.

8. Pierre Hermé - Renowned pastry chef offering unique flavor combinations in his tarts and pastries. Location: 72 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, France.

9. Tartine Bakery & Cafe - Celebrated for its bread and pastries, including decadent tarts. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.

10. Pâtisserie Sadaharu Aoki - A fusion of Japanese and French techniques resulting in exquisite creations. Location: 35 Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, France.