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Mini Cherry Almond Tarts are a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the sweetness of ripe cherries and the nutty essence of almonds. These charming little tarts are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making them a perfect dessert option for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a summer garden party, celebrating a family gathering, or simply indulging in a cozy afternoon tea, these tarts are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Mini Cherry Almond Tarts

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Mini Cherry Almond Tarts, a perfect dessert for any occasion. These charming tarts feature a flaky, buttery crust filled with a rich almond cream and fresh cherries, balancing sweetness and tartness in every bite. Ideal for garden parties, family gatherings, or cozy afternoons, they promise to impress your guests. Discover the joy of baking and create a treat that will leave everyone craving more. Perfect for sharing!

Ingredients
  

For the Tart Crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

¼ cup powdered sugar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg yolk

2 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the Cherry Almond Filling:

1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 teaspoon almond extract

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

For the Almond Cream:

½ cup almond paste

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Make the Tart Crust:

    - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt.

      - Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

        - In a small bowl, combine the egg yolk and ice water. Gradually add this mixture to the flour mixture, mixing until the dough comes together.

          - Divide the dough into 12 equal portions, flatten into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

            Prepare the Filling:

              - In a medium bowl, combine pitted cherries, sugar, cornstarch, almond extract, and lemon juice. Toss to coat and set aside to simmer and meld flavors for about 10 minutes.

                Make the Almond Cream:

                  - In a bowl, mix the almond paste, softened butter, and sugar until well combined and smooth.

                    - Add the egg and vanilla extract, whisking until the mixture is light and creamy.

                      Preheat the Oven:

                        - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

                          Assemble the Tarts:

                            - Roll out each disk of chilled tart dough on a floured surface to fit into a greased muffin tin.

                              - Gently press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of each cup in the muffin tin.

                                - Spoon a layer of almond cream into each tart shell, filling them about halfway up.

                                  - Top with the cherry mixture, and sprinkle sliced almonds over the cherries.

                                    Bake:

                                      - Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the tarts are golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

                                        - Remove from oven and allow to cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

                                          Serve:

                                            - Once cooled, you can dust the tarts with powdered sugar before serving, if desired. Enjoy these delightful Mini Cherry Almond Tarts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!

                                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 45 min | 1 hr 15 min | 12 tarts