Pecan Custard Tart

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Pecan Custard Tart

Introduction

There’s something deeply comforting about a homemade tart. The buttery aroma of a freshly baked crust, the velvety richness of a custard filling, and the nutty crunch of toasted pecans come together in perfect harmony in this Pecan Custard Tart. This dish blends rustic charm with elegant decadence—a dessert perfect for special gatherings or a quiet afternoon with coffee.

In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make this delightful tart from scratch, dive into its nutritional benefits, and uncover its subtle story of flavor, love, and tradition.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2-3 tbsp cold water

For the Custard Filling

  • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 cup pecan halves

Method

Step 1: Make the Crust

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
  2. Add the cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Add the egg yolk and 2 tbsp of cold water. Mix just until the dough begins to come together. Add a little more water if needed.
  4. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press into the pan and trim the excess.
  6. Prick the base with a fork and blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Remove weights and bake another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard

  1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk and cream over medium heat until just warm (do not boil).
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla, salt, and nutmeg.
  3. Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.
  4. Strain the custard through a fine sieve to ensure smoothness.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Arrange the pecan halves evenly over the pre-baked crust.
  3. Carefully pour the custard over the pecans.
  4. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is just set in the center.
  5. Cool completely before slicing to allow the custard to firm up.

Nutritional Information (Per slice – based on 8 servings)

  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 29g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Fiber: 1.5g

Health Benefits

  • Pecans are rich in healthy fats, antioxidants, and magnesium.
  • Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential vitamins like B12 and D.
  • Milk & Cream are excellent sources of calcium and Vitamin A.
  • Homemade crust ensures no added preservatives or unhealthy oils.

Lovera (Love Era): A Slice of Emotion

In many cultures, desserts are more than sweet dishes—they are memories, gifts, and sometimes even confessions. This tart, with its creamy texture and warm nutty embrace, tells the story of Sunday afternoons at Grandma’s house or a cozy winter date.

To bake is to love. Every layer of this tart—from the crumbling crust to the silky custard—carries the fingerprints of care and affection. Whether you’re serving it to someone you love or savoring it alone, know that it holds space for comfort, joy, and a little indulgence.

Formation and Presentation

  • Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.
  • Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup.
  • Pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a warm cup of Earl Grey tea.

Conclusion

This Pecan Custard Tart is more than a recipe—it’s a celebration of texture and taste, history and home. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or saving the last slice for yourself, every bite speaks of time well spent and love well given.

Bake it once, and it just might become your forever favorite.

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