Butter-Free Jam Tart Recipe: A Delightful Twist on Classic Italian Pastry
When you’re craving a sweet treat but want a healthier twist, this butter-free jam tart offers the perfect solution. The crust, made with olive oil instead of butter, maintains that classic crumbly texture while providing a richer flavor. Filled with a luscious cherry jam, this tart is a crowd-pleaser and an ideal choice for anyone looking to indulge in a homemade dessert with fewer calories from fats.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (00 flour) | 430g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 100g |
| Whole eggs | 110g |
| Egg yolk | 20g |
| Powdered sugar (icing sugar) | 150g |
| Water | 20g |
| Potato starch (cornstarch) | 150g |
| Baking powder | 5g |
| Cherry jam | 500g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tart Dough:
Begin by preparing the dough, or frolla, which serves as the base for your tart. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 whole eggs and 1 egg yolk (approximately 130g). Add the water slowly, mixing constantly. Gradually pour in the olive oil while continuing to whisk, ensuring all ingredients are well combined. -
Combine the Dry Ingredients:
In the same bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, potato starch, and baking powder. These dry ingredients will help create the light, tender texture of the dough. Once sifted, begin mixing the ingredients together using your hands. The goal is to form a rough dough. Keep kneading the mixture until all the flour is incorporated and the dough begins to form. -
Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a clean surface and knead it vigorously for several minutes. This step will help develop the gluten and ensure that the dough becomes smooth and pliable. Once the dough is smooth, wrap it in plastic wrap and allow it to rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help it firm up, making it easier to roll out. -
Roll the Dough:
After the dough has chilled, place it on a floured surface and roll it out to about 5mm thick. Aim for a round shape, as this will form the base of your tart. Carefully roll the dough onto the rolling pin to transfer it into your tart pan. Press the dough gently into the pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and edges. -
Trim and Prick the Dough:
Once the dough is in place, use a knife to trim away any excess around the edges. Use a fork to prick the base of the dough in several places. This will help the crust bake evenly and prevent it from puffing up. -
Chill the Crust:
Place the tart pan with the dough back in the fridge while you prepare the decorative top. Chilling the dough will help it maintain its shape while baking. -
Prepare the Decorative Dough:
Take the leftover dough that was set aside and roll it out to about 3-4mm thick. Use a 24cm round cutter to make a large circle, then use a smaller 18cm cutter to make a hole in the center. This will leave you with a ring of dough that will decorate the top of your tart. Place the ring of dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. -
Assemble the Tart:
Remove the tart pan from the fridge. Spread the cherry jam evenly across the bottom of the crust, smoothing it out with the back of a spoon. Once the jam is evenly spread, take the dough strips and place them over the jam, ensuring they are spaced well apart. Press the ends of the strips against the edge of the tart to secure them. -
Add the Decorative Ring:
Take the dough ring that you prepared earlier and gently place it on top of the tart, aligning it around the edges of the tart pan. Press the edges down to seal the tart and create a neat, finished look. -
Bake the Tart:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the tart on the second-to-top rack and bake for 35 minutes. After this time, move the tart to the top rack for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly and become golden. -
Cool the Tart:
Once the tart is golden and baked to perfection, turn off the oven and open the door. Allow the tart to cool inside the oven with the door slightly ajar for about 10 minutes. This will help prevent any sudden temperature changes that could cause the tart to collapse. -
Serve and Enjoy:
After the tart has cooled down slightly, remove it from the oven and allow it to fully cool before removing it from the tart pan. Slice into pieces and serve. This butter-free jam tart pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Jam: The flavor of the jam is crucial to the overall taste of the tart, so opt for a high-quality, thick jam that will hold its shape during baking.
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for the dough to firm up, making it easier to handle and less likely to shrink during baking.
- Variation: Feel free to experiment with different types of jams, such as apricot, raspberry, or fig, to create your own unique flavor combinations.
This butter-free jam tart is perfect for those seeking a lighter dessert without compromising on flavor. It’s an ideal choice for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a simple treat to enjoy with your afternoon tea. By using olive oil instead of butter, you get a unique twist on the classic Italian pastry, creating a delicious and satisfying dessert that’s sure to impress.
