Spruce Sugar Tarts

Spruce Sugar Tarts are a delightful treat that combines crisp pastry with the unique, resinous flavor of spruce tips. This dessert originates from regions abundant in spruce trees, where indigenous and pioneer communities utilized local resources to create wholesome and flavorful dishes. The use of spruce tips, which are the young, tender growths from evergreen trees, adds a burst of citrusy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of sugar and the richness of butter.

History of Spruce Sugar Tarts

The tradition of using spruce tips in cooking can be traced back to various indigenous groups who valued them for their vitamin C content, which was crucial for preventing scurvy during long winters. Early settlers adopted this practice not only for its health benefits but also for its culinary potential. Spruce Sugar Tarts likely emerged from a fusion of indigenous culinary knowledge and European baking techniques, creating a dish that is both nutritious and indulgent.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups, all-purpose
• Butter - 1 cup, unsalted and chilled
• Sugar - 1/2 cup, granulated
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Egg - 1, large
• Water - 3 tablespoons, ice cold
• Spruce Tips - 1/2 cup, fresh and finely chopped
• Brown Sugar - 1/2 cup
• Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Making the Pastry

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Cut the butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or two knives, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
5. Add the egg mixture to the flour mixture, and mix until the dough just comes together.
6. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.

Preparing the Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the spruce tips, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble.
3. Remove from heat, and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Let the filling cool to room temperature before using.

Assembling the Tarts

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll out on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness.
3. Cut the dough into circles using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
4. Place each circle into the cups of a muffin tin, pressing gently to form the tart shells.
5. Spoon the cooled spruce filling into each tart shell, filling them about 3/4 full.

Cooking Process

Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is set. Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Set a timer to ensure the perfect bake.

Serving Suggestions

Spruce Sugar Tarts are best enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, as these accompaniments complement the tartness of the spruce and the sweetness of the sugar. For a delightful presentation, dust the tarts with a bit of powdered sugar before serving. These tarts are perfect for a winter dessert or a forest-themed gathering.

Conclusion

Embrace the flavors of the forest with these delicious Spruce Sugar Tarts. Not only are they a unique dessert option, but they also carry with them a piece of culinary history that enriches every bite. We hope you enjoy crafting and savoring this sweet, aromatic pastry.