Fraser Valley Maple Tart

Background

The Fraser Valley Maple Tart is an exquisite dessert that captures the essence of the beautiful Fraser Valley region in British Columbia, Canada. Known for its lush landscapes and bountiful maple trees, the Fraser Valley is celebrated for producing some of the world's most delicious maple syrup. This tart is a tribute to the rich flavors and traditions of this beloved region, combining a buttery crust with a smooth and decadent maple filling that melts in your mouth.

The history of the Fraser Valley Maple Tart dates back to the early settlers of the valley who wanted to create a dessert that would showcase the region's naturally abundant maple syrup. Over time, this recipe has been refined to perfection, becoming a staple in local households and a favorite at festive gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons of cold water

For the Filling

• 1 cup of pure maple syrup
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 3 large eggs
• 1/4 cup of packed brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Preparation

Making the Crust

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the egg yolk and water. Mix until the dough begins to come together.
4. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your tart pan by greasing it lightly.
6. Remove the dough from the refrigerator, roll it out to fit your tart pan, and carefully lay it in the pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough from the top.
7. Use a fork to prick the base of the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until it is lightly golden. Allow it to cool before adding the filling.

Cooking Process

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pure maple syrup and heavy cream. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Slowly pour the hot maple syrup mixture into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from curdling.
4. Once combined, pour the filling into the cooled tart crust.
5. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for approximately 35 to 40 minutes, or until the filling is set and slightly wobbly in the center.
6. To ensure precision with your timing, use a cooking timer for each step to track your progress and prevent overcooking.
7. Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack until it reaches room temperature.

Enjoying Your Fraser Valley Maple Tart

Once cooled, the Fraser Valley Maple Tart can be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled. For an extra indulgent experience, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its rich maple flavor pairs beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon tea or dessert after a lovely meal.

This tart makes a fantastic centerpiece for celebrations and showcases the beautiful flavors of maple syrup in every bite. Whether shared with family, friends, or simply enjoyed as a personal indulgence, the Fraser Valley Maple Tart is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection.