Christmas Mini Tarts: 7 Ways to Spread Holiday Joy Recipe

Introduction

These Christmas Mini Tarts are a delightful way to spread holiday cheer with bite-sized treats. Featuring a buttery crust filled with fruity preserves and topped with crunchy nuts, they are perfect for festive gatherings or gifting.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup fruit preserves
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: In a bowl, mix the flour, softened butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture is crumbly.
3. Step 3: Add vanilla extract and continue mixing until the dough comes together.
4. Step 4: Press the dough evenly into mini tart pans to form the tart shells.
5. Step 5: Spoon fruit preserves into each tart shell, filling them about three-quarters full.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the preserves for added texture and flavor.
7. Step 7: Brush the edges of each tart with the beaten egg to help achieve a golden finish.
8. Step 8: Bake the tarts for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
9. Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow the tarts to cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use different types of fruit preserves like raspberry, apricot, or fig to vary the flavor.
• For a festive twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough before baking.
• Replace chopped nuts with toasted coconut flakes or chocolate chips depending on preference.
• If mini tart pans aren’t available, use a muffin tin lined with paper cups as an alternative.

Storage

Store the mini tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in a low oven for a few minutes if you prefer them warm.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before pressing into the tart pans.

What type of nuts work best for these tarts?

Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds all work well, adding a nice crunch and complementary flavor to the fruit preserves.

Christmas Mini Tarts: 7 Ways to Spread Holiday Joy Recipe

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4.8 from 146 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 12 mini tarts 1x

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Description

These festive Christmas Mini Tarts are a delightful way to spread holiday joy with seven different flavor variations. Featuring a buttery, crumbly crust filled with sweet fruit preserves and topped with crunchy nuts, these bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday parties and gatherings. Easy to make and beautifully festive, they offer a delicious combination of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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Crust Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Filling and Topping

• 1/2 cup fruit preserves
• 1/4 cup chopped nuts
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the tarts once assembled.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened unsalted butter, and powdered sugar. Mix these ingredients together until the mixture becomes crumbly, which forms the base of the tart crust.
3. Add Vanilla: Stir in the vanilla extract and continue mixing until you achieve a cohesive dough that holds together when pressed.
4. Form Tart Crusts: Press the dough mixture evenly into mini tart pans, making sure to cover the bottom and sides to form a sturdy shell for the filling.
5. Add Filling: Spoon the fruit preserves into each tart shell, filling them generously but without overflowing.
6. Top with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the fruit preserves to add a crunchy texture and festive appearance.
7. Brush Egg Wash: Lightly brush the edges of each tart with the beaten egg. This will help the crust develop a beautiful golden color during baking.
8. Bake: Place the mini tart pans in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crusts turn golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
9. Cool and Serve: Allow the tarts to cool completely before removing them from the pans and serving. This helps the filling set and makes handling easier.

Notes

• You can customize the fruit preserves to your favorite flavors such as raspberry, apricot, or cherry to vary the taste.
• For extra festive flair, consider dusting the cooled tarts with powdered sugar before serving.
• Chopped nuts can be substituted with almonds, walnuts, or pecans depending on your preference.
• If mini tart pans are unavailable, you can use a standard muffin tin lined with paper cups as an alternative.
• Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and a crumbly texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Christmas Mini Tarts, Holiday Desserts, Mini Fruit Tarts, Festive Baking, Holiday Treats, Tart Recipe, Easy Holiday Desserts