Maple, Caramel, and Macadamia Nut Tart ๐๐ฅง
Introduction:
Indulge in the flavors of autumn with this exquisite Maple, Caramel, and Macadamia Nut Tart recipe, brought to you by Linda Drinkard, a local culinary instructor, and published in our esteemed newspaper. This delightful dessert combines the richness of caramel, the warmth of maple syrup, and the crunch of macadamia nuts, all encased in a buttery tart crust. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight treat or a special gathering with loved ones.
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Recipe Category: Tarts
- Keywords: Dessert, Fruit, Nuts, Weeknight, Oven, < 4 Hours
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 847.7
- Fat Content: 63.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 27.8g
- Cholesterol Content: 115.1mg
- Sodium Content: 171.7mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 69g
- Fiber Content: 3.7g
- Sugar Content: 45.9g
- Protein Content: 6.4g
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 1 1/2 cups |
Granulated sugar | 2 cups |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Unsalted butter | 12 tbsp (1 1/2 sticks) |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Water | 3-4 tbsp |
Pure maple syrup | 1 1/4 cups |
White chocolate | 2 oz |
Heavy cream | 1 cup |
Macadamia nuts | 1 cup |
Instructions:
-
For the Crust:
- In a bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Cut the unsalted butter into the flour mixture until it resembles fine crumbs.
- Mix in the vanilla extract and add water gradually, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together and can be formed into a ball.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for approximately 2 hours, or until firm.
-
Prepare the Tart Shell:
- Preheat the oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to form a 12-inch round.
- Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
- Gently press the dough into the pan and trim any excess, leaving about a 1/2-inch overhang.
- Fold the overhang inward and press to form a high-standing, double-thick edge.
- Use a fork to pierce the bottom of the crust all over.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the sides are set. Pie weights may be used to prevent the crust from puffing up.
- If using pie weights, remove them after this initial baking period.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC) and return the crust to the oven. Bake for an additional 12 minutes.
-
For the Filling:
- In a heavy saucepan, combine granulated sugar and water.
- Stir over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and boil the mixture without stirring for about 7 minutes, or until the caramel turns a deep amber color. Occasionally brush down the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush to prevent crystallization.
- Reduce the heat to medium and carefully add the heavy cream, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Add the unsalted butter, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract, stirring until well blended.
- Mix in the macadamia nuts until evenly coated with the caramel mixture.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked tart shell and spread it out evenly.
- Bake the tart in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling.
-
Final Touches:
- Remove the tart from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
- Meanwhile, melt the white chocolate in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until smooth.
- Drizzle the melted white chocolate decoratively over the top of the cooled tart.
-
Maple Whipped Cream:
- In a chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat until the desired consistency is reached.
-
Serving:
- Serve slices of the Maple, Caramel, and Macadamia Nut Tart with a dollop of maple whipped cream on top for an extra indulgent touch.
Enjoy!
Savor every bite of this Maple, Caramel, and Macadamia Nut Tart, a decadent dessert that captures the essence of fall in every mouthful. Whether you’re sharing it with friends and family or treating yourself to a solo indulgence, this tart is sure to impress with its irresistible combination of flavors and textures. Happy baking! ๐๐ฅง