The almond tart recipe is a true classic in French and European baking, combining a buttery crust, rich almond cream, and sometimes seasonal fruits to create a dessert that is both elegant and comforting. This tart is versatile perfect for tea time, holiday gatherings, or as a show-stopping dessert after dinner. Unlike overly sweet desserts, almond tart offers a nutty depth balanced with subtle sweetness.
In this guide, you’ll not only learn the best almond tart recipe, but also explore variations like the almond frangipane tart, almond cream tart, and even options that include fruits like pears, apples, or berries.
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What is an Almond Tart?
An almond tart is a pastry made with a sweet tart crust (pâte sucrée) filled with almond cream (frangipane). It can be baked plain or topped with fruits such as pears, cherries, or apricots. The almond filling creates a moist, flavorful interior with a slightly crisp top layer after baking.
This tart has its roots in French patisserie, where frangipane recipe is a staple filling for many desserts. The nutty flavor of almonds pairs perfectly with buttery pastry, making it a timeless choice.
Almond Tart Recipe: Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling)
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Servings: 8–10 slices
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Key Components: sweet tart crust, almond cream filling, glaze or topping
Ingredients for Almond Tart
For the Sweet Tart Crust (Pâte Sucrée Recipe)
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tbsp cold water
- Pinch of salt
For the Almond Cream (Frangipane Recipe)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup almond flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp almond extract
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
Optional Toppings
- Fresh fruit (pears, apples, cherries)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Apricot glaze for tart (for shine and preservation)
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Almond Tart
Step 1 – Make the Sweet Tart Crust
Prepare the pâte sucrée recipe by mixing flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add egg yolk and cold water, forming a dough. Wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes before rolling out. Blind bake the crust for 15 minutes at 350°F to prevent sogginess.
Step 2 – Prepare the Almond Cream (Frangipane Recipe)
Beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then fold in almond flour, all-purpose flour, and almond extract. This creates the rich almond cream tart filling that gives the tart its signature flavor.
Step 3 – Assemble and Bake
Spread the almond cream evenly over the pre-baked tart crust. Arrange sliced fruit (if using) on top. Bake at 350°F for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 4 – Finishing Touches
Brush the tart with apricot glaze for tart to give it a glossy finish and preserve freshness. Let it cool before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Almond Tart
- Chill the pastry: Cold butter ensures a crisp crust.
- Avoid overmixing frangipane: This prevents a dense texture.
- Use almond flour, not almond meal: For a smoother filling.
- Try pastry cream recipe: For a layered crème pâtissière almond tart.
- Poached fruit topping: Poached pears or apples make an elegant variation.
Variations of Almond Tart Recipe
- Almond Frangipane Tart – Classic version with almond cream and fruit.
- Almond Cream Tart – Simpler style without fruit, highlighting nutty richness.
- Pear and Almond Tart – Combines poached pears recipe with frangipane filling.
- Rustic Almond Tart – Free-form galette style for casual occasions.
- Chocolate Almond Tart – Add cocoa powder to the filling or drizzle with ganache.
Pairing Almond Tart with Drinks
The nutty flavor of almond tart pairs beautifully with:
- Coffee or espresso
- Black tea or Earl Grey
- Dessert wines like Sauternes or Moscato
- Sparkling wine for festive occasions
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Store at room temperature for 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze baked tart (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Thaw and refresh in the oven.
- Make crust ahead of time and freeze, then fill and bake when needed.
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FAQs
What is the difference between almond tart and almond cake?
An almond tart recipe uses a pastry crust with almond filling, while almond cake is baked without a crust and has a fluffier texture.
Can I use store-bought pastry for almond tart?
Yes, though making your own sweet tart crust or pâte sucrée recipe improves texture and flavor.
How do you keep almond tart from becoming soggy?
Blind bake the crust and avoid overfilling with fruit juice. Adding a thin layer of apricot glaze helps seal it.
Can almond tart be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free flour in both crust and filling.
Do I need to refrigerate almond tart?
It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days but refrigeration extends freshness.
Conclusion
This almond tart recipe combines a flaky sweet tart crust, rich frangipane recipe, and optional fruity toppings for a versatile dessert. Whether you choose a simple almond cream tart or a more elaborate pear almond tart with crème pâtissière, this dessert balances elegance with homemade comfort.
If you’re looking for a timeless recipe that impresses with minimal effort, this almond tart is your answer.
