Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are an irresistible, bite-sized pastry treat that have won the hearts of home bakers and dessert lovers around the world. Mary Berry, a celebrated British baker and television personality, is renowned for her classic, approachable recipes that deliver on both flavor and presentation. Her mini jam tarts are no exception.
These tarts are the epitome of a traditional British afternoon tea snack. They feature a rich, buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a dollop of sweet jam-typically raspberry or strawberry, although you can customize it to your own taste. The simplicity of the ingredients is what makes them so special, as the flavor of the pastry pairs beautifully with the tartness of the jam. Small enough to be enjoyed in a few bites, yet satisfying enough to make you crave just one more, Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or just as a homemade treat to enjoy with a cup of tea.
What sets these tarts apart from others is their ability to balance a crispy, delicate crust with the sweet, juicy filling. The jam provides a burst of flavor, while the shortcrust pastry delivers the perfect amount of crunch. They are incredibly easy to make, requiring no complicated techniques, which makes them an ideal choice for beginner bakers or anyone looking to whip up a quick yet delightful dessert.
Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To make Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts, you’ll need a short list of simple ingredients. The beauty of these tarts is their minimalism-everything you need is likely already in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
-
For The Pastry
- 225g (8 oz) plain flour – This is the base of the shortcrust pastry. The flour gives the pastry its structure and body.
- 100g (3.5 oz) unsalted butter – The butter is key to creating a rich, crumbly texture. You want to make sure the butter is cold before starting.
- 50g (1.75 oz) caster sugar – A little sweetness goes a long way in shortcrust pastry, helping to balance the flavor and adding a hint of sweetness.
- 1 large egg yolk – This helps to bind the dough together, giving it a smooth consistency.
- Cold water – Just a splash, as needed, to bring the dough together and give it the perfect consistency.
-
For The Filling
- About 5-6 tablespoons of your favorite jam – While raspberry and strawberry are the classic options, feel free to get creative with different flavors. Apricot, blackcurrant, or even a mixed berry jam would work beautifully. The key is to use a jam with a good balance of sweetness and tartness.
-
For Decoration (Optional)
- Icing sugar for dusting – A light dusting of icing sugar on top of your mini jam tarts can make them look extra polished and appealing. It’s an optional finishing touch that adds a professional look to your homemade tarts.
Equipment Needed
While these mini jam tarts don’t require any complicated equipment, there are a few essentials that will make your baking process easier:
- Mixing Bowl – You’ll need a medium-sized bowl to mix your pastry dough.
- Pastry Cutter or Food Processor – While a pastry cutter is traditional, you can also use a food processor to quickly cut the butter into the flour and sugar, saving time and effort.
- Rolling Pin – Essential for rolling out the pastry dough to an even thickness before cutting out the rounds.
- Mini Tart Tin or Muffin Tin – A mini tart tin (or a standard muffin tin) will help you create perfectly shaped, individual tarts.
- Pastry Brush – If you decide to egg-wash the pastry before baking, a pastry brush will help you do so evenly.
- Baking Tray – To place the tart tin(s) on when baking, ensuring heat is evenly distributed.
- Spoons for Jam – You’ll need a spoon to carefully place the jam into the tart shells without overfilling.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts
The process for making these mini jam tarts is simple and straightforward, perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your tarts turn out perfectly:
-
Make The Pastry
- Start by sifting the flour into a mixing bowl. Add the caster sugar and mix together.
- Dice the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour and sugar mixture.
- Using your fingers (or a pastry cutter), rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs. You want to work quickly to prevent the butter from warming up.
- Add the egg yolk and a small splash of cold water (start with about a teaspoon). Mix until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too dry, add more water, a little at a time.
- Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough relax and makes it easier to roll out.
-
Roll Out The Dough
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease your mini tart tin or muffin tin lightly.
- After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thickness.
- Use a round cutter (roughly 7-8cm in diameter) to cut out discs of pastry. Gently press these discs into the cups of your tart tin, ensuring they fit snugly in the base and sides.
-
Add The Jam Filling
- Spoon a small amount of jam into each pastry shell. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam can bubble over during baking. About 1 teaspoon per tart is usually enough.
-
Bake The Tarts
- Place the tart tin in the oven and bake for around 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crisp. The jam will become bubbly, and the edges of the pastry will be perfectly golden.
-
Cool And Serve
- Once baked, remove the mini tarts from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Once fully cooled, dust with a little icing sugar if desired, and serve with a pot of tea.
Tips And Tricks
- Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step. Allowing the pastry to rest in the fridge will help maintain its shape during baking, preventing it from shrinking.
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is crucial for creating a flaky, tender pastry. It’s best to work quickly to keep the butter as cold as possible.
- Jam Selection: Choose a good-quality jam with a balanced sweetness and tartness. Homemade jam or a high-quality store-bought jam will give your tarts an extra special touch.
- Blind Baking: If you’re worried about the pastry puffing up, you can blind bake the shells for a few minutes before adding the jam. This ensures a crisper base.
- Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different jam flavors, or even combine two flavors for a fun twist. For example, raspberry and lemon curd make a lovely combination.
Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are the perfect combination of simple, homemade goodness and classic British charm. With a buttery, flaky pastry and a sweet jam filling, these bite-sized treats are ideal for any occasion-from a casual afternoon tea to a special family gathering. The recipe is so straightforward that anyone can give it a try, and the results are always delicious. Whether you follow the traditional flavors of raspberry or strawberry, or mix it up with your favorite jams, these mini tarts are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of baking these delectable, nostalgic delights that will surely bring smiles to all who taste them.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts
Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are a timeless classic that combines a buttery, crumbly pastry with a sweet, sticky jam filling. While the original recipe is simple and delicious, there’s plenty of room for variation and creativity. You can tweak these tarts to suit your taste, dietary needs, or seasonal ingredients. Here are a few easy recipe variations that will help you make the most of this classic treat.
1. Different Jam Fillings
The beauty of these mini tarts lies in the jam filling, and you can experiment with a variety of flavors. Traditional choices like strawberry, raspberry, or apricot are always winners, but why not try:
- Mixed Berries: A combination of blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries creates a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Marmalade: For a zesty, slightly bitter twist, orange marmalade works wonderfully. Pair it with a sprinkle of zest on top for extra zing.
- Chutney: For something savory-sweet, try a fruit chutney, like apple or pear, which can add a tangy contrast to the sweet pastry.
- Lemon Curd: For a refreshing, tangy contrast to the sweet pastry base, lemon curd is an excellent filling. You can even add a few fresh blueberries on top to balance the flavors.
2. Pastry Variations
While the traditional shortcrust pastry is perfect for these tarts, you can switch it up to suit different flavor profiles or dietary preferences.
- Whole Wheat or Oat Pastry: For a more wholesome option, try using whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and white flour. This gives the tarts a nuttier flavor and a bit more texture. You can also try adding ground oats to the pastry for a rustic feel.
- Almond Pastry: For a more indulgent variation, add ground almonds to your pastry dough. This gives the crust a subtle nutty flavor, which complements fruity fillings beautifully.
- Gluten-Free Pastry: If you’re catering for gluten-free eaters, there are plenty of ready-made gluten-free shortcrust pastry options available. Alternatively, you can make your own using a blend of rice flour, potato flour, and ground almonds.
3. Decorative Touches
Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are simple in their elegance, but you can easily jazz them up for special occasions:
- Crumbly Streusel Topping: For a little crunch, you can top each tart with a sprinkle of streusel made from butter, flour, sugar, and ground almonds. This adds texture and a bit of extra sweetness.
- Fresh Fruit Garnish: To brighten up the tarts and add a fresh element, top each tart with a small slice of fresh fruit. Strawberries, raspberries, or kiwi slices work wonderfully.
- Whipped Cream or Custard: For a more indulgent treat, serve these tarts with a dollop of whipped cream or a spoonful of vanilla custard. This makes them feel even more decadent and elevates them for dessert after a meal.
4. Vegan And Dairy-Free Options
For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adapt Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts:
- Vegan Pastry: Swap butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine. You can also use a flaxseed egg substitute to bind the dough.
- Dairy-Free Jam: Make sure the jam you use is free from any animal-derived ingredients. Fortunately, most jams are naturally dairy-free, but it’s always worth double-checking.
- Non-Dairy Whipped Cream: For a luxurious finish, you can serve your mini tarts with coconut whipped cream or any other dairy-free whipped topping.
These variations not only offer fresh takes on the classic tart, but they also ensure that the recipe can be adapted for different dietary needs and personal preferences. Whether you prefer a more indulgent, decadent tart or a light, fresh option, these easy modifications will allow you to customize Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts to suit any occasion.
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious batch of Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts, you may find yourself with a few leftovers. While these tarts are best enjoyed fresh, they can still be stored properly to maintain their quality and flavor for a few days. Here’s how you can ensure they stay fresh:
1. Room Temperature Storage
If you plan on consuming the tarts within 1-2 days, you can store them at room temperature. Simply place the tarts in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. Ensure that the container is lined with a piece of parchment paper to avoid direct contact with the jam filling, which could cause it to stick or become soggy.
2. Refrigeration
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the tarts. While refrigeration may cause the pastry to lose some of its crispness, it’s an effective way to preserve them for 3-4 days. Again, use an airtight container, and place a layer of paper towels inside to absorb any moisture.
3. Freezing
For even longer storage, you can freeze the mini tarts. First, let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze them individually for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and crisp.
4. Reheating
To bring back some of the original texture and flavor, reheating is the best option. Whether you’ve stored your tarts at room temperature, in the fridge, or the freezer, a brief period in the oven will help restore their crispness. Just be sure not to overheat them, as this can cause the pastry to dry out.
By storing your leftovers properly, you can enjoy Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts for several days without compromising on taste or texture.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts?
Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right side dishes or accompaniments can elevate your dessert experience. Here are a few suggestions on what to eat with these little jam-filled wonders:
1. Tea
A classic choice, especially for an afternoon tea or a casual get-together, is to serve these tarts with a hot cup of tea. The fruity sweetness of the jam paired with the buttery pastry is perfectly balanced by a cup of traditional English Breakfast tea or a fragrant Earl Grey. If you prefer herbal teas, chamomile or mint will also work well, providing a calming contrast to the richness of the tarts.
2. Ice Cream Or Sorbet
For a more indulgent pairing, serve the mini jam tarts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fruit sorbet. The creamy, cold contrast to the warm tarts adds a luxurious touch. A scoop of clotted cream ice cream or lemon sorbet can particularly complement the tart’s fruity filling.
3. Fresh Fruit
Fresh fruit brings a refreshing, healthy contrast to the rich sweetness of the tarts. Think of vibrant strawberries, raspberries, or even a fruit salad with citrusy notes. The acidity of fresh fruit will cut through the jam’s sweetness and refresh the palate.
4. Whipped Cream Or Custard
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a rich custard can turn your mini jam tarts into a more substantial dessert. Vanilla custard pairs especially well with any jam filling, adding a smooth, creamy element that enhances the tarts’ flavor. If you want something lighter, you can opt for lightly sweetened whipped cream.
5. Cheese Platter
For something a little different, pair your mini jam tarts with a cheese platter. A selection of mild cheeses like brie, cream cheese, or goat cheese, paired with fruit chutneys and crackers, can offer a savory-sweet balance when eaten alongside the tarts.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts are a versatile, easy-to-make treat that can be customized in countless ways. Whether you prefer to stick with classic strawberry jam or experiment with new fillings, there’s no shortage of ways to make these tarts your own. With their buttery, crisp pastry and sweet jam centers, they’re perfect for a variety of occasions-from casual afternoon teas to more formal dinner parties.
Once you’ve baked a batch, remember that leftovers can be stored with ease, allowing you to enjoy them for several days to come. Pair them with your favorite beverages, fresh fruit, or indulgent accompaniments to create a delightful dessert experience.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Mini Jam Tarts?
To make Mary Berry’s mini jam tarts, you’ll need the following ingredients: shortcrust pastry (either pre-made or homemade), raspberry jam (or your preferred jam), and a little milk or egg wash to brush over the tarts before baking. You’ll also need flour for rolling out the pastry and sugar to sprinkle over the finished tarts, if desired.
How Do I Make The Shortcrust Pastry For The Mini Jam Tarts?
To make the shortcrust pastry for Mary Berry’s mini jam tarts, combine 225g of plain flour with 110g of butter, cut into cubes. Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add a pinch of salt and about 2-3 tablespoons of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and use a round cutter to shape the bases for the tarts. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
How Long Should I Bake The Mini Jam Tarts And At What Temperature?
Mary Berry’s mini jam tarts should be baked at 180°C (350°F) in a preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown. The jam should be bubbling slightly but not overly spread out. It’s important to keep an eye on the tarts as oven temperatures can vary.
