French Almond Tart

This French Almond Tart is a delightful dessert that will impress your guests and make any occasion special. With its buttery Pâte Sucrée crust, rich almond cream frangipane filling, and crunchy sliced almonds on top, this tart is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Its unique flavor profile and satisfying texture make it stand out among dessert options.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of almond flour and butter creates a rich, nutty taste that is simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: Even if you’re not an experienced baker, this tart is straightforward and manageable.
• Versatile: Perfect for various occasions like birthdays, holidays, or casual gatherings; it fits any theme.
• Make Ahead: This tart can be prepared in advance, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends.
• Beautiful Presentation: Topped with sliced almonds, it’s visually appealing and sure to impress anyone who sees it.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Tart pan
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills or messes.
• Tart pan: Helps achieve a perfectly shaped tart with easy removal after baking.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are blended smoothly for a uniform texture.
• Rolling pin: Necessary for rolling out the Pâte Sucrée crust evenly.

Ingredients

This French almond tart features a delightful blend of textures and flavors that come together beautifully. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

For the Pâte Sucrée Crust

• 1 1/2 cups Flour (AP, plain, or pastry flour)
• 1/4 tsp Kosher salt
• 2/3 cup Powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup Almond flour
• 1/2 cup Butter (cold!)
• 1 Egg

For the Frangipane Filling

• 2/3 cup Butter (soft, unsalted)
• 2/3 cup Granulated sugar
• 1/2 tsp Kosher salt
• 3 Eggs
• 1 1/3 cups Almond flour
• 3 tbsp Flour

For Topping

• 1/2 cup Sliced almonds

How to Make French Almond Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Pâte Sucrée Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, powdered sugar, and almond flour.
2. Add cold butter cut into small pieces. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until crumbly.
3. Incorporate one egg until the dough comes together. Form into a disk and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you roll out the chilled dough.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

1. On a floured surface, roll out the chilled Pâte Sucrée crust to fit your tart pan.
2. Carefully transfer it to the tart pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough.

Step 4: Make the Frangipane Filling

1. In another bowl, cream together soft butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in kosher salt and eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Gradually add almond flour and all-purpose flour until combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Tart

Pour the frangipane filling into the prepared crust. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 6: Bake

Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top of the filling. Bake in preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delicious French almond tart!

How to Serve French Almond Tart

This French almond tart is a delightful dessert that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the tart alongside a mix of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries for a burst of color and flavor.

With Whipped Cream

• A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can add a creamy texture that complements the nutty almond filling.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delicious contrast between warm and cold, enhancing each bite of the tart.

With Fruit Compote

• Drizzle a homemade fruit compote made from apples or pears over the tart for added sweetness and moisture.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pairing this dessert with a cup of coffee or herbal tea can elevate its flavors and provide a comforting end to your meal.

How to Perfect French Almond Tart

To make your French almond tart truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use cold butter: Ensure your butter is very cold when making the Pâte Sucrée crust. This helps achieve a flaky texture that’s light and airy.
• Chill the dough: After mixing the dough, chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step prevents shrinking during baking and improves texture.
• Don’t overmix frangipane: When preparing the almond cream filling, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to an undesirable texture in the filling.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your tart as it bakes. The top should be golden brown but not overly dark, which could indicate overbaking.
• Let it cool completely: Allow the tart to cool fully before slicing. This ensures cleaner cuts and better presentation when serving.

Best Side Dishes for French Almond Tart

When serving French almond tart, consider these side dishes that complement its rich flavors perfectly.

1. Fresh Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the tart.
2. Cheese Plate: Include soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert for a creamy addition that balances the dessert.
3. Chocolate Mousse: A small serving of chocolate mousse provides an indulgent touch that pairs well with almonds.
4. Fruit Sorbet: Choose a citrus or berry sorbet for a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce on top can enhance sweetness while adding depth to flavors.
6. Nuts Mix: A small bowl of roasted nuts works as crunchy finger food alongside slices of tart, enhancing its nutty notes.
7. Poached Pears: Serve poached pears in light syrup for an elegant touch that complements almond flavors beautifully.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit can create a delightful contrast, adding creaminess to every bite of tart.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a French almond tart can be delightful, but it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are mistakes you should look out for:

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can affect the texture of your crust. Always use cold butter for the Pâte Sucrée to ensure a flaky finish.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a tough tart. Mix just until ingredients combine smoothly for a light frangipane filling.
• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can result in shrinkage during baking. Chill your crust for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Not measuring accurately: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your tart’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise amounts, especially with flour and sugar.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can burn or undercook your tart. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the tart in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Almond Tart

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The tart can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating French Almond Tart

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a covered pan over low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing it to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a French Almond Tart?

A French almond tart is a dessert made with a sweet pastry crust filled with almond cream (frangipane) and topped with sliced almonds.

How do I make the Pâte Sucrée crust?

To make the Pâte Sucrée crust, combine flour, salt, powdered sugar, and cold butter. Mix until crumbly, then add an egg and form into a dough.

Can I customize my French Almond Tart?

Yes! You can add fruits like pears or apricots on top or mix different nuts into the frangipane filling for added flavor.

How do I know when my tart is done baking?

The tart is done when it has risen slightly and is golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

This French almond tart is not only delicious but also versatile. With its rich almond flavor and customizable toppings, it’s perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and experiment with your favorite nuts or fruits!