Tarte à la Cannelle from Aquitaine

Introduction to Tarte à la Cannelle

The Tarte à la Cannelle is a classic pastry originating from the southern region of Aquitaine in France. Known for its rich culinary heritage, Aquitaine offers a wide variety of traditional desserts, with the Tarte à la Cannelle being one of the standout favorites. This tart is celebrated for its delicate balance between the sweet, spicy notes of cinnamon and the rich, buttery pastry crust, making it an ideal dessert for special occasions and family gatherings.

Dating back to the medieval period, Tarte à la Cannelle was initially a luxurious treat reserved for nobility due to the exotic nature of cinnamon. Over time, as spices became more accessible, this delicious dessert spread in popularity throughout France. Today, it holds a beloved place in the hearts of locals and food enthusiasts alike.

Ingredients for Tarte à la Cannelle

• Flour - 250 g
• Butter - 125 g, chilled and diced
• Sugar - 100 g
• Eggs - 2
• Milk - 250 ml
• Cinnamon - 2 tablespoons
• Nutmeg - 1 teaspoon
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - a pinch

Preparation of the Pastry

Begin by preparing the pastry crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Add the chilled, diced butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.

In a separate bowl, beat one egg and add it to the flour-butter mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Once the dough comes together, wrap it in cling film and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Filling

While the pastry is chilling, you can begin to prepare the filling. In a saucepan, add the milk, sugar, cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

In a mixing bowl, beat the remaining egg with the vanilla extract. Slowly add the cooled milk mixture while continuously whisking.

Assembling the Tarte

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled pastry dough on a floured surface to fit your tart pan. Carefully line the tart pan with the rolled-out dough, trimming off any excess.

Pour the cinnamon filling into the prepared tart shell. Smooth the surface with a spatula to ensure even coverage.

Cooking Process

Place the tart in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust turns golden brown. Keep an eye on the cooking time by setting a cooking timer.

Once done, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack before serving.

Enjoying Tarte à la Cannelle

The Tarte à la Cannelle is best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. Pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance its flavors. This tart can be served as a delightful finish to a French-inspired meal or savored as a richly-flavored afternoon treat alongside a cup of coffee or tea.

Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends and family, the Tarte à la Cannelle is a testament to the sweet and spicy delights that the Aquitaine region has to offer.