Kermesse Custard Tart

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delectable dessert – Kermesse Custard Tart. This delightful recipe yields two tarts, each serving 8, and can be easily halved if needed. The combination of a buttery crust and a creamy custard filling makes these tarts a perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Makes 2 tarts, each serving 8. 

INGREDIENTS:

FOR THE CRUST:

• 2 tablespoons dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 cups flour
• Pinch of sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 3/4 cup warm milk
• 1 egg plus 1 yolk

FOR THE CREAM:

• 2 whole eggs plus 4 yolks
• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 8 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup pitted prunes (optional)
• 1 whole egg, beaten with 2 tablespoons strong, cold coffee

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a small bowl, dilute yeast with a little warm water and the sugar. Allow it to proof (become creamy and bubbly) for a few minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour with a pinch of sugar and salt. Make a well in the center.
3. In a saucepan, heat butter in milk until melted. In a small bowl, whisk eggs. Pour into the flour well the warm milk and butter, eggs, and yeast. Knead to form a smooth ball of dough. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough and line pie molds, building up the dough on the sides to make a thick and high rim. Let it rest for another 15 minutes while you make the custard.
5. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
6. In a bowl, whisk eggs. Add flour and 2 cups of cold milk. Stir well.
7. In a large saucepan, bring 6 cups of milk to a boil with the sugar and vanilla. Turn off the heat and incorporate the egg/flour mixture by whisking.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil again, stirring for a minute or two, then remove from heat. Repeat the process.
9. Once the custard has cooled, spread it into the prepared crust. Optionally, you can add pitted prunes to the custard for added flavor.
10. Lastly, brush the cream filling with the egg-coffee wash.
11. Bake the tarts for 30-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the custard is set.

Serve these delightful Kermesse Custard Tarts as a show-stopping dessert or alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a sweet treat. The buttery crust and creamy custard filling will surely impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

These Kermesse Custard Tarts are a true delight to the senses, combining the buttery crust, creamy custard, and optional fruity notes. They can be enjoyed as a show-stopping dessert or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a mouthwatering dessert that will impress your guests and leave them craving for more.