Mary Berry Bakewell Tart is a delightful British dessert, featuring a crisp pastry base filled with raspberry jam and a frangipane topping, finished with a scattering of flaked almonds. It’s a perfect treat for afternoon tea, family gatherings, or any special occasion.
This recipe serves 8-10 people and can be prepared in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
In this article, I will show you how to make Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart step by step, with tips and tricks along the way.
What is Mary Berry Bakewell Tart?
Mary Berry Bakewell Tart is a traditional British dessert consisting of a shortcrust pastry base spread with jam and topped with a moist almond frangipane filling.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Nutty: The combination of almonds and raspberry jam creates a perfect harmony of flavors.
- Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of the ingredients already in your pantry.
- Elegant Presentation: It looks stunning and is sure to impress your guests.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a tea party or a family dessert.
- Mary Berry’s Signature: Following the queen of baking’s recipe ensures success.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Bakewell Tart
For the Pastry:
- 175g (6 oz) plain flour
- 75g (3 oz) cold butter, cubed
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
For the Filling:
- 150g (5 oz) raspberry jam
- 125g (4.5 oz) butter, softened
- 125g (4.5 oz) caster sugar
- 125g (4.5 oz) ground almonds
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 25g (1 oz) flaked almonds
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch tart tin
- Baking beans (or uncooked rice/lentils)
- Pastry brush
- Spatula
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Bakewell Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Pastry
- Mix the flour and butter: In a large bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add water: Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Tart Base
- Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit your tart tin.
- Line the tin: Place the dough into the tart tin, pressing gently to fit. Trim the edges.
- Blind bake: Prick the base with a fork, line with parchment paper, and fill with baking beans. Bake at 200°C (180°C fan, 400°F) for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and paper, then bake for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Filling
- Spread the jam: Once the tart shell has cooled slightly, spread an even layer of raspberry jam over the base.
- Make the frangipane: Cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and almond extract, then fold in the ground almonds.
- Add the frangipane: Spread the frangipane mixture over the jam layer, smoothing the top.
Step 4: Bake the Tart
- Top with almonds: Scatter the flaked almonds over the frangipane.
- Bake: Bake at 180°C (160°C fan, 350°F) for 25-30 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool: Allow the tart to cool in the tin before removing and slicing.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Bakewell Tart?
- A dollop of whipped cream: Adds a rich, creamy texture.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream: Complements the tart’s sweetness.
- Fresh berries: Adds a refreshing contrast.
- A cup of tea: Perfect for a traditional British experience.
- A drizzle of custard: For an extra indulgent treat.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Bakewell Tart
- Chill the pastry: Ensures a crisp, non-shrinking tart base.
- Use quality jam: Makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t overfill: Prevents the tart from overflowing during baking.
- Watch the oven: Almonds can brown quickly; cover with foil if needed.
- Cool completely: Easier to slice and serve when fully set.
Variations of Mary Berry Bakewell Tart
- Use different jams: Try strawberry, apricot, or blackcurrant.
- Add a citrus twist: Grate lemon or orange zest into the frangipane.
- Chocolate Bakewell: Add cocoa powder to the frangipane for a chocolatey version.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour for the pastry and frangipane.
- Mini tarts: Make individual portions for a fun twist.
How do I Store Mary Berry Bakewell Tart Leftovers?
- Airtight container: Keeps the tart fresh for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate: Store in the fridge if your kitchen is warm.
- Freeze: Wrap in cling film and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Slice before freezing: Easier to thaw and reheat individual portions.
How do I Reheat Mary Berry Bakewell Tart Leftovers?
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30-40 seconds.
- Serve at room temperature: If you prefer not to reheat.
- Cover with foil: Prevents the tart from drying out in the oven.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sugars: 28g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
How long does Mary Berry Bakewell Tart last?
Mary Berry Bakewell Tart can last up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you refrigerate it, it can stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the tart for up to 1 month.
Can I make Mary Berry Bakewell Tart in advance?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry Bakewell Tart in advance. The tart can be baked the day before and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you need to prepare it further in advance, you can freeze it and thaw it on the day you plan to serve it.
What type of jam is best for Mary Berry Bakewell Tart?
Raspberry jam is the traditional choice for Mary Berry Bakewell Tart. However, you can use other types of jam such as strawberry, apricot, or blackcurrant for a different flavor profile. Make sure to use high-quality jam for the best results.
Can I make Mary Berry Bakewell Tart gluten-free?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry Bakewell Tart gluten-free by using gluten-free flour for both the pastry and the frangipane filling. Ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free, and you will have a delicious gluten-free version of this classic dessert.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart is a timeless dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any table. With its crisp pastry, sweet jam, and almond frangipane, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful treat with your loved ones!
