Citrus Cascade Tart

A Symphony of Citrus Flavors

Citrus Cascade Tart is a vibrant dessert that beautifully combines a variety of citrus fruits layered upon a buttery crust. This tart is a modern twist on the traditional citrus tarts often found in Europe, drawing inspiration from the bustling orange groves of Valencia and the refreshing lime plantations of the Caribbean. The interplay of flavors from lemon, orange, and lime create a stunning balance of tart and sweet.

The citrus tart can be traced back to French patisseries where it was historically enjoyed as a refreshing and light dessert, especially appreciated in the warmer months when citrus fruits are at their peak. As citrus fruits spread across the globe from Asia to Europe and America, their natural tangy flavor became the hallmark of exquisite desserts like this.

Ingredients

To create the Citrus Cascade Tart, you'll need the following ingredients:

• All-purpose flour - 200g
• Butter - 100g, chilled and cubed
• Sugar - 50g
• 1 egg, beaten
• Lemon zest and juice - from 2 lemons
• Orange zest and juice - from 2 oranges
• Lime zest and juice - from 2 limes
• Cornstarch - 2 tablespoons
• Heavy cream - 250ml
• 1 egg white
• Mint leaves for garnish

Preparation

Making the Pastry

Begin by making the base of the tart, which is the pastry crust.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar.
2. Add the chilled butter and, using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
3. Create a well in the center and add the beaten egg. Mix until a dough begins to form.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disk. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preparing the Citrusy Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the citrus filling.

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon, orange, and lime juices with the cornstarch.
2. In a separate pan, gently heat the citrus zest combined with the juice mixture, stirring constantly until it thickens.
3. Remove the pan from the heat and slowly whisk in the cream. Set aside to cool.

Cooking

Once your crust and filling are ready, it's time to assemble and bake the tart.

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
2. Roll out the dough to fit your tart pan and gently press it in, trimming any excess.
3. Prick the base of the pastry with a fork and line it with baking parchment. Fill with baking beans and blind bake for 15 minutes.
4. Remove the beans and parchment, then brush the crust with egg white and return it to the oven for another 5 minutes until golden.
5. Pour the cooled filling into the baked crust and bake the assembled tart for another 25-30 minutes until the filling is set.
6. Cool the tart to room temperature before garnishing with fresh mint leaves and additional zest if desired.

How to Enjoy

This tart pairs beautifully with a light, dry white wine or chilled herbal tea, perfect for an afternoon treat or the closing note of a sophisticated dinner. The vibrant citrus notes are sure to cleanse the palate and leave a delightful lingering taste. Serve the tart slightly chilled, giving it a fresh and invigorating texture.

The interplay of the lemon, orange, and lime make each bite a burst of refreshing flavor, while the buttery pastry balances the tartness with its subtle richness. This tart is ideal for special occasions and everyday delicacies, inviting diners to indulge in a cascade of citrusy goodness.