The moment summer begins to weave its warm colors into our days, my mind drifts to the sweet treasure that is the plum tart. I remember the first time I bit into a slice—tender plums bursting with juice nestled beneath a golden, flaky crust that seemed to melt in my mouth. It was a slice of nostalgia mixed with delight, reminding me of lazy afternoons spent in the kitchen.
This free-form plum tart is not just a dessert; it’s an experience waiting to happen. With its effortlessly beautiful presentation and a flavor that perfectly balances sweet and tart, this treat is an ode to the bountiful summer harvest. Plus, the easy assembly means you can serve up something impressive without breaking a sweat. Perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying a slice on your own, this recipe transforms seasonal plums into a dazzling centerpiece. Join me in making this delightful tart that will have everyone asking for seconds and reminiscing about those sunny days—let’s get baking!
Why is this Plum Tart so irresistible?
Elevated Flavor: The plums bring a delightful sweet-tart balance, enhanced by a hint of cinnamon, making each bite memorable.
Effortless Assembly: The free-form design allows you to create a stunning dessert with minimal fuss—perfect for busy home cooks!
Crowd Favorite: This tart is a guaranteed showstopper at gatherings, impressing family and friends alike with its vibrant colors and mouthwatering taste.
Versatile Delight: Change it up by adding different fruits or spices to suit your palate, making it new each time you bake!
Perfectly Seasonal: Celebrate summer with a dessert that captures the essence of fresh, juicy plums for a truly seasonal treat.
For more tips on enhancing your baking skills, check out my guide on essential baking techniques.
Plum Tart Ingredients
For the Crust
- All-purpose or “00” Flour – Provides structure for the tart crust; you can substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
- Butter – Adds richness and a flaky texture; make sure to use cold, unsalted butter for better control over salt content.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the crust and filling; for a deeper flavor, consider substituting with brown sugar.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Ice Cold Water – Binds the dough; it’s crucial to use very cold water to maintain a flaky texture.
For the Filling
- Firm Plums – The star ingredient of the plum tart; choose ripe but firm fruits for the best flavor.
- Cornstarch – Thickens the filling and helps absorb moisture from the plums to prevent a soggy crust.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth to the filling; nutmeg can serve as a delightful alternative.
For Assembly
- Beaten Egg – Glazes the crust for a shiny finish.
- Cinnamon Sugar – Optional topping for added sweetness and aroma.
- Plum or Peach Jam – Used after baking for a glossy finish; feel free to substitute with apricot jam if it’s unavailable.
How to Make Plum Tart
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Prepare the Crust:
Cut cold butter into cubes and mix with flour, sugar, and salt until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until a dough forms—be careful not to overwork it. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes. -
Prepare the Filling:
Slice the firm plums into wedges and toss them in a mixing bowl with sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon. This will create a delightful filling, enhancing the plums’ natural sweetness. -
Assemble the Tart:
Roll the chilled dough into a 14-inch round on a floured surface and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange the plums in the center, folding the dough border over the filling while leaving a 2-inch edge exposed. Drizzle any leftover juices over the plums, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top. -
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 425°F, then bake the tart for 15 minutes. Lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 20-30 minutes until the crust turns golden and the plums are tender. Once out of the oven, brush the hot plums with jam for a glossy finish and cool before slicing.
Optional: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Plum Tart in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can make the crust up to 24 hours ahead of time—simply prepare the dough, shape it into a disk, wrap it well, and refrigerate it. The filling can also be prepped up to 3 days in advance; just slice the plums and toss them with sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon, then refrigerate in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled crust, assemble your tart with the prepared filling, and bake as directed. This ensures your tart is just as delicious while minimizing the last-minute rush.
How to Store and Freeze Plum Tart
Room Temperature: Keep your plum tart covered at room temperature for up to 2 days for maximum freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you have leftovers or want to keep it longer, refrigerate the tart in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will maintain its taste while preserving texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating: For a delightful warm treat, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, which revives the flaky crust of your plum tart beautifully.
Expert Tips for Plum Tart
- Cold Ingredients: Always use very cold butter and ice water in your dough. This ensures a flaky crust—warm ingredients will lead to a tough texture.
- Avoid Sogginess: Use cornstarch in your filling to absorb excess moisture from the plums. This helps prevent a soggy crust while baking your plum tart.
- Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the tart while it’s in the oven. Each oven’s heat can vary, so look for a golden-brown crust before removing it.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare your crust a day in advance and keep it chilled. This saves time for baking day while still achieving that fresh-baked taste!
- Creative Add-ins: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Consider mixing in other fruits or spices, like nutmeg, for a unique twist on your classic plum tart.
What to Serve with Plum Tart?
Enhance your dessert experience with a mix of flavors and textures that beautifully complement this sweet-tart delight.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the tartness of the plums, creating a heavenly pairing.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream brings a soothing balance to the rich flavors of the tart while offering a luxurious touch.
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Chilled Rosé Wine: A glass of chilled rosé elevates the dining experience, its fruity notes echoing the plum tart and enhancing the fresh summer vibe.
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Almond Slices: Toasted almond slices add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, which harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the plums.
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Fresh Berries: A side of mixed fresh berries introduces a burst of color and freshness, enhancing the overall fruitiness of your plum dessert.
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Cinnamon Dusting: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top before serving for an aromatic boost that echoes the warm spices within the tart itself.
Indulging in these pairings will surely transform your plum tart into a delightful feast, making every bite memorable!
Plum Tart Variations
Indulging in a plum tart not only pleases the palate but also invites personal flair—let’s explore some delightful ways to customize this beautiful dessert!
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Fruit Spin: Mix in peaches or nectarines for a sweeter, fruity twist that elevates the classic flavors with a summery vibe.
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Spice it Up: Add a sprinkle of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a warm, aromatic twist that beautifully contrasts the tartness of the plums. These spices complement each other, making each bite a fragrant delight.
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Choco-Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chips into the filling for a decadent surprise that harmonizes wonderfully with the plums’ juicy sweetness and creates a luxurious dessert experience.
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Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for an added crunch. The nuts lend a lovely texture and subtle flavor contrast, making it even more enjoyable.
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Vegan Option: Replace the butter with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter substitute, and use aquafaba (chickpea brine) in place of the egg for a vegan-friendly tart that everyone will love.
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Citrus Zing: Add a bit of zest from lemons or oranges in the filling to brighten up the flavors, bringing a refreshing note that balances the sweetness and tartness beautifully.
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Savoury Touch: Experiment with adding a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese to the crust for a savory element that complements the fruit’s natural sweetness, transforming your dessert into a sweet-savory delight.
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Herb Infusion: Infuse the filling with a hint of thyme or rosemary for a surprising herbal note that makes this tart a conversation starter at any gathering. The herbs can add an unexpected depth that surprises the taste buds beautifully.
Plum Tart Recipe FAQs
What type of plums should I use for the tart?
Absolutely! For the best results, pick firm, ripe plums. You want them to be slightly soft to the touch, but not mushy. Look for plums with smooth skin and no dark spots—these are signs of perfect ripeness!
How should I store my leftover plum tart?
If you have any leftovers, keep your plum tart covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, transferring it to an airtight container in the refrigerator will maintain freshness for up to 5 days.
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Can I freeze plum tart, and how do I do it?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your plum tart! To do so, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay delicious for up to 3 months. For the best taste, thaw at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying again.
What should I do if my tart crust is soggy?
No worries—it happens to the best of us! To avoid a soggy crust, ensure you’re using cornstarch in your filling to absorb moisture. Another trick is to bake the tart longer at a slightly higher temperature—or even blind bake the crust before filling it for extra flakiness.
Are there any dietary considerations for this plum tart?
While this recipe is quite standard, if you or your guests have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients. For gluten-free options, substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. Also, since the tart contains butter, vegans can use plant-based butter alternatives and a flax egg for the glaze.
How long does the peach or plum jam last in the fridge?
After opening a jar, peach or plum jam usually lasts around 1 month in the refrigerator. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or discoloration, before using it as a glaze for your tart.
Absolutely Scrumptious Plum Tart to Wow Your Guests
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut cold butter into cubes and mix with flour, sugar, and salt until the texture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice the firm plums into wedges and toss them in a mixing bowl with sugar, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon.
- Roll the chilled dough into a 14-inch round on a floured surface and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Arrange the plums in the center, folding the dough border over the filling while leaving a 2-inch edge exposed. Drizzle any leftover juices over the plums, brush with beaten egg, and sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F, then bake the tart for 15 minutes. Lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 20-30 minutes until the crust turns golden and the plums are tender. Once out of the oven, brush the hot plums with jam for a glossy finish and cool before slicing.