Summer Fresh Mixed Berry Tart/Pie
This Summer Fresh Mixed Berry Tart/Pie is a family favorite that I make year after year as soon as the summer berries are ripe and in season. It’s the perfect dessert for a hot day, offering a light, refreshing treat that pairs beautifully with the vibrant, sweet flavors of fresh berries. Whether it’s for a casual get-together or a special family celebration, this tart is always the first to disappear, and it never fails to impress with its stunning presentation. Simple yet elegant, this dessert is a must-try whenever you’re craving something fruity and delicious. It’s quick to prepare, easy to make, and absolutely irresistible.
Ingredients for Summer Fresh Mixed Berry Tart/Pie
For the Crust:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Graham cracker crumbs | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 1/3 cup |
| Butter (melted) | 7 tablespoons |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Sugar | 1/2 – 2/3 cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 1/2 tablespoons |
| Water | 2 cups |
| Raspberry gelatin powder | 1 packet |
| Strawberry gelatin powder | 1 packet |
For the Fruit Topping:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh raspberries | 8 ounces |
| Fresh strawberries | 8 ounces |
| Fresh blueberries (optional) | As desired |
Optional Garnish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whipped cream | As desired |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 232.6 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8.1 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5 g |
| Cholesterol | 17.8 mg |
| Sodium | 193.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4 g |
| Sugars | 30.4 g |
| Protein | 2.1 g |
Instructions for Summer Fresh Mixed Berry Tart/Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine 2 cups of graham cracker crumbs with 1/3 cup of sugar. Add 7 tablespoons of melted butter and mix everything together until well combined.
- Press this graham cracker mixture into the bottom and sides of a 10-inch tart pan or a deep-dish pie plate, making sure to form a nice, even layer. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass to gently press the crumbs down.
- Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until it is golden and crisp. Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before proceeding to the next step.
Step 2: Make the Gelatin Filling
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together 1/2 to 2/3 cup of sugar and 2 1/2 tablespoons of cornstarch. Whisking the dry ingredients together first helps prevent any lumps from forming when you add the water.
- Gradually add 2 cups of water to the sugar and cornstarch mixture, and place the saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Stir the mixture constantly until it comes to a rapid boil. Continue boiling for about 2 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and becomes a smooth, glossy syrup.
- Once the mixture has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the 1 packet of raspberry gelatin powder and 1 packet of strawberry gelatin powder. Stir until both gelatins are completely dissolved, ensuring a smooth and even consistency.
- Let the gelatin mixture cool to room temperature, which should take about 20 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble the Tart
- Once the crust has cooled, arrange the fresh berries in the cooled graham cracker crust. You can use a combination of 8 ounces of fresh raspberries and 8 ounces of fresh strawberries. If you’d like, you can also add some blueberries for extra color and flavor.
- Slowly pour the cooled gelatin mixture over the top of the berries. Take care to pour the gelatin mixture over the berries evenly, ensuring that most of the exposed berries are covered. The gelatin will help hold the berries in place and provide a beautiful, glossy finish.
- Place the tart in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for about 3 hours, or until the gelatin has fully set.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the tart has set, remove it from the refrigerator and carefully remove it from the tart pan.
- If desired, serve the tart with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
- Slice into the tart and enjoy the sweet, refreshing burst of berry flavor with every bite.
Tips for the Best Summer Fresh Mixed Berry Tart/Pie
- Crust Variation: You can switch up the crust by using crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafer cookies, or even almond flour for a gluten-free version. Adjust the sugar accordingly to match the sweetness of the crust.
- Berry Varieties: Experiment with different types of fresh berries based on what’s in season. Blueberries, blackberries, or even a combination of tropical fruits like kiwi and mango can work well in this tart.
- Gelatin Alternatives: If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute the gelatin with agar-agar or another plant-based thickening agent, though it may affect the texture slightly.
- Storage: This tart keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days, so it’s perfect for making ahead of time for picnics or parties.
Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, attending a family reunion, or simply craving a light, fruity dessert, this Summer Fresh Mixed Berry Tart will never disappoint. The combination of a buttery, crisp graham cracker crust, sweet gelatin filling, and fresh berries makes it an unbeatable dessert for any occasion. It’s quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a hit with guests of all ages. Enjoy!
