Irresistible Sour Cherry Tart with Almond Crumble

Tarte Montmorency: The Ultimate Sour Cherry Pie 🍒

Indulge in the best sour cherry pie ever with this delightful Tarte Montmorency. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, this tart is a perfect dessert that pairs wonderfully with crème fraîche or a dollop of whipped cream. For the most successful results, use an 11″ or 12″ flan pan to showcase this delicious pie.

Ingredients:

• For the Pastry:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2/3 cup butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• For the Filling:

  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 cup icing sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon almond essence
  • 1 cup almonds, finely ground
  • 3 cups fresh sour cherries (pitted)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pastry:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups flour, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon salt.
   • Cut in 2/3 cup of cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
   • Gradually add a little cold water, just enough to bring the dough together.
   • Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to chill.

2. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit an 11″ or 12″ flan pan.
   • Gently press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.
   • Prick the pie crust all over with a fork to prevent bubbling.
   • Sprinkle the bottom of the crust with 1/4 cup icing sugar to help absorb any juices from the cherries.

3. Assemble the Pie:

   • Arrange the fresh sour cherries in a single layer over the prepared crust, packing them closely together.
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

4. Make the Filling:

   • In a medium bowl, beat together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until creamy.
   • Add in 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in 1 cup icing sugar, 1/2 cup flour, 1 teaspoon almond essence, and 1 cup finely ground almonds until smooth.

5. Bake the Tarte:

   • Spread the filling evenly over the layer of cherries.
   • Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes.
   • Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.

6. Cool and Serve:

   • Allow the tart to cool completely before removing from the pan.
   • Serve at room temperature or chilled, with a side of crème fraîche or whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your Tarte Montmorency as a splendid ending to any meal or a delightful treat with your afternoon tea. 🍰🍒