Golden Treacle Tart Recipe

Treacle tart is a classic British dessert that has been loved for generations. This sweet and sticky treat is made with golden syrup, an essential ingredient that gives the tart its delightful flavor and texture. Originating in England, treacle tarts have been a staple in British homes, often enjoyed as a comforting dessert during afternoon teas or served warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Mention of the tart can also be found in literature, famously favored by the young wizard in the Harry Potter series.

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

Rolling pin
Tart pan (9 inches)
Mixing bowl
Grater
Juicer
Oven
Timer for cooking

Directions

Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry

Begin by preparing the shortcrust pastry. If you're making it from scratch, roll it out onto a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully lay the pastry into a greased tart pan, ensuring it fits snugly against the edges. Trim any excess pastry from the edges and prick the base with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Chill the pastry-lined tart pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Make the Filling

While the pastry chills, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the golden syrup, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and lemon juice. If you like a little spice, add the ground ginger. Mix everything together until thoroughly combined. The mixture should be sticky and cohesive.

Assemble the Tart

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the pastry is chilled, pour the filling into the prepared pastry shell, spreading it evenly. Ensure the filling is well leveled to allow even baking.

Bake the Tart

Place the tart in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Keep a timer handy to prevent over-baking. The filling should be set and slightly golden on top. If the edges of the pastry begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow the treacle tart to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. For a classic touch, serve slices with a generous dollop of heavy cream or your favorite vanilla ice cream. The tart pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea, offering a quintessentially British experience.

Important Notes

Ensure your breadcrumbs are fine for the best texture in your filling.
Golden syrup is crucial for this recipe; substitutions may alter the traditional flavor.
This tart can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
For those with a sweeter tooth, increase the amount of golden syrup by a small margin.

I've been...