Peach Tart

Every cook needs a good dessert recipe that can be whipped up anywhere — especially when you’re away from your kitchen and its mixer and rolling pin and comforting gadgets. This peach tart is that recipe for me. To make it all you need is a knife, a bowl, and some kind of pan. A tart pan ideally, but I’ve even made it on a baking sheet with one side shored up with aluminum foil. And when I’ve been without a bowl, I’ve even mixed the dough right in the pan. The dough is made with oil, milk, and almond extract, and is pressed into the pan. There is no blind baking nonsense. You just top the dough with the peaches, and then shower it with a sugary, salty crumble and send it on its merry way into the oven. I got the original recipe from my mother, who uses all vegetable oil in the crust. I use half vegetable oil and half olive oil. She neatly peels her peaches. Lazy kin, I do not. Hers is probably better, but you are stuck with me. I can promise you, however, that whoever you serve this to will not mind. This recipe was featured on our new cook-along podcast Play Me a Recipe. Listen as Amanda cooks her way through this recipe, offering insider tips and backstory along the way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This peach tart requires minimal tools—just a bowl and a knife—making it perfect for any setting.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh peaches with a crumbly topping delivers a burst of sweetness in each bite.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal for family gatherings or casual get-togethers; serve warm or at room temperature.
• No Blind Baking Needed: Save time with an easy crust method that doesn’t require pre-baking.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to adjust sugar levels or add spices to suit your taste!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing this peach tart effortless. Here’s what you’ll need for success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Tart Pan
• Fork
• Measuring Cups
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Tart Pan: Provides structure to your tart while allowing even baking.
• Fork: Useful for mixing gently without overworking the dough.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1/4 cup mild olive oil
• 2 tablespoon whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 tablespoon cold, unsalted butter
• 3 small ripe peaches (up to 5), pitted and thickly sliced (about 1/2-inch wide)

How to Make Peach Tart

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl:
1. Stir together 1 1/2 cups of flour, 3/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of sugar.
2. In another small bowl, whisk together:
– 1/4 cup vegetable or canola oil,
– 1/4 cup mild olive oil,
– 2 tablespoons whole milk,
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract.
3. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently using a fork until just combined; avoid overworking.

Transfer this dough to an 11-inch tart pan (or use a smaller one if needed). Pat out the dough firmly so it covers the bottom and sides of the pan evenly; trim any excess.

Step 3: Make the Topping

In another bowl:
1. Combine:
– 3/4 cup sugar,
– 2 tablespoons flour,
– 1/4 teaspoon salt,
– 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter.

Using your fingers, pinch the butter into these dry ingredients until you achieve a crumbly texture.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Starting from the outside:
1. Arrange sliced peaches in overlapping concentric circles over your pastry.
2. Fill in any gaps in the center as desired.
3. Generously sprinkle your buttery mixture over top.

Step 5: Bake Your Tart

Bake for about 35 to 45 minutes or until bubbles form around the fruit and the crust turns slightly brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your peach tart to cool on a rack before serving warm or at room temperature—best enjoyed with whipped cream!

How to Serve Peach Tart

Serving a peach tart is a delightful experience. Its warm, sweet aroma combined with the juicy peaches makes it a perfect dessert for gatherings or a cozy evening at home. Here are some ways to enhance your serving experience.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the tart’s sweetness.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts over the warm tart, creating a delicious contrast of temperatures.

Drizzle with Honey

• A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the peaches and adds an elegant finish.

Accompany with Fresh Mint

• Garnishing with fresh mint leaves brings a refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the tart.

Offer a Side of Yogurt

• Plain or flavored yogurt provides a tangy note that pairs beautifully with the sweet peach filling.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Serving peach tart alongside a cup of coffee or tea creates a perfect afternoon treat or dessert pairing.

How to Perfect Peach Tart

To achieve the best peach tart, focus on some key techniques. Here are tips to elevate your baking game.

• Use ripe peaches: Choose peaches that are slightly soft to ensure maximum sweetness and juiciness in your tart.

• Don’t skip on chilling: Allowing the crust to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking helps maintain its shape and texture.

• Adjust sugar based on sweetness: If your peaches are very ripe, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the topping for balance.

• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your tart as it bakes; every oven is different, and you want that golden crust without burning.

• Cool before slicing: Letting your peach tart cool completely ensures cleaner slices and better presentation when serving.

• Experiment with spices: Adding cinnamon or nutmeg can bring out more flavors in the peaches and make your dish unique.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Tart

If you’re planning a meal featuring peach tart, consider these side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

1. Arugula Salad – A peppery arugula salad topped with lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and balances sweetness.

2. Grilled Vegetables – Charred seasonal vegetables provide a savory contrast to the sweet fruit dessert.

3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese creates an excellent savory counterpoint.

4. Roasted Nuts – Crunchy roasted nuts add texture and can be sprinkled over salads or served on their own.

5. Savory Quiche – A light quiche made with spinach or cheese can serve as a pleasant contrast to the dessert course.

6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad made from berries helps cleanse the palate between bites of rich peach tart.

7. Baked Brie – Warm, gooey baked brie drizzled with honey is an indulgent option that pairs well with sweet desserts.

8. Crostini with Goat Cheese – Toasted bread topped with creamy goat cheese offers delightful bites before diving into dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Peach Tart can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial for a balanced tart. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups and spoons for the best results.
• Overworking the dough: Over-mixing can make the crust tough instead of flaky. Mix just until combined, and then press the dough into the pan.
• Ignoring peach ripeness: Using underripe peaches will result in a tart that lacks flavor. Always choose ripe peaches for a sweeter and juicier tart.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing your tart to cool helps set the filling. Cutting it too soon can lead to a messy slice.
• Using the wrong type of pan: A tart pan with a removable bottom is ideal for easy serving. If you use a different type, ensure it has enough depth for the filling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your peach tart in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Freezing Peach Tart

• Duration: You can freeze your peach tart for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Peach Tart

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), then reheat the tart for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 30-second increments until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat for 5 minutes, covering with a lid to trap steam.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Peach Tart unique?

This peach tart stands out with its easy-to-make crust featuring olive oil and almond extract, which adds depth of flavor.

Can I use other fruits instead of peaches?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with other fruits like apricots, plums, or nectarines for similar delicious results.

How do I know when my Peach Tart is done baking?

Your tart is done when it’s golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Look for thick bubbles enveloping the fruit surface.

Can I make this Peach Tart ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Peach Tart is not only delightful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different fruits or spices based on your preferences. Whether served warm or at room temperature, it’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it!