Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese and Chive Canape Tarts are a delightful bite-sized appetizer, perfect for any occasion, whether it be a celebratory gathering, a casual afternoon tea, or a festive party. Known for her impeccable culinary skills and elegant yet simple recipes, Mary Berry has created this dish as a way to elevate the standard canape into something more vibrant and flavorful.
These tarts feature a crisp pastry shell, a creamy and savory filling of cheese, fresh chives, and roasted red peppers, all coming together in perfect harmony. The combination of flavors is both rich and refreshing, with the sweet, smoky notes of the roasted peppers balancing the sharpness of the cheese and the earthiness of the chives. The beauty of this canape lies in its simplicity: a few well-chosen ingredients that create a memorable bite.
The visual appeal of these tarts is just as important as their taste. The rich golden crust gives way to a creamy filling with bright flecks of red pepper and green chives, making them a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. They are small enough to be served at cocktail parties, but flavorful enough to stand out in any appetizer spread.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, creating a buffet-style spread, or just looking for a tasty snack to enjoy with a glass of wine, these tarts are a must-try. They’re incredibly versatile, too-since they can be served warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for preparing ahead of time. The contrast of textures between the crisp pastry and the smooth, cheesy filling gives each bite a perfect balance, while the fresh herbs and peppers bring a burst of freshness.
Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To recreate Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese and Chive Canape Tarts, you will need a selection of fresh, quality ingredients that will bring out the best of this recipe. Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need:
For The Pastry
- Pre-made Shortcrust Pastry: While you can certainly make your own from scratch, pre-made shortcrust pastry is an easy and time-saving option. You’ll need about 250g of pastry dough to line the tart cases.
- Egg Yolk: This helps to enrich the pastry and gives it a golden color when baked.
For The Filling
- Cream Cheese (or Mascarpone): You’ll need about 150g of cream cheese to give the tart filling a smooth, creamy texture. If you prefer a slightly richer, more decadent filling, mascarpone can be substituted.
- Cheddar Cheese (or Gruyère): Around 100g of grated cheese adds flavor and gives the filling a deliciously sharp bite.
- Roasted Red Peppers: The key to this dish’s flavor, about 2-3 red peppers, which should be roasted and chopped into small pieces. This adds sweetness and a smoky taste to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Fresh Chives: About 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives, which add a fresh, oniony bite and a pop of green color.
- Garlic Powder: A pinch of garlic powder can elevate the flavor profile, adding depth and savoriness.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, to balance out the flavors of the cheese, peppers, and herbs.
For Assembling
- Flour: A small amount of flour for dusting the work surface when rolling out the pastry.
- Milk or Cream: A splash of milk or cream to lightly brush the pastry before baking, ensuring a golden, glossy finish.
Equipment Needed
To make these canape tarts, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools and some specialized items to make the job easier:
- Tartlet Tins or Mini Muffin Tray: These are crucial for shaping the pastry and ensuring that each tart is uniform in size. Mini muffin tins can be used if you don’t have specific tartlet tins.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the pastry to the correct thickness.
- Pastry Brush: To brush a light layer of milk or cream over the pastry shells before baking.
- Knife and Chopping Board: For chopping the red peppers and chives.
- Grater: To grate the cheese-if you’re using a block of cheese, you’ll need this to get the right texture for melting into the filling.
- Mixing Bowls: For preparing the filling ingredients and mixing them together.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts
1. Prepare The Pastry
Begin by rolling out the shortcrust pastry on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 2-3mm thickness. Using a round cutter, cut out circles of pastry that are slightly larger than the holes of your tartlet tin (usually about 7-8cm in diameter). Press each circle into the individual cavities of the tart tin, ensuring they fit snugly and come up the sides of the tin.
Once all the pastry is in place, prick the bases with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking. Chill the pastry-lined tin in the fridge for about 10-15 minutes to help it keep its shape.
2. Bake The Pastry
Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F. Once the tartlets are chilled, line the pastry with baking parchment and fill with baking beans or rice to weigh them down. Bake in the preheated oven for around 10 minutes. After this time, remove the paper and beans, and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crisp. Set aside to cool.
3. Make The Filling
While the pastry is baking, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, grated cheddar cheese, chopped roasted red peppers, and fresh chives. Season with a pinch of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until everything is well-combined.
4. Fill The Tarts
Once the pastry shells have cooled, spoon the cheese mixture into each tartlet, dividing it evenly. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the tops and make sure the filling is level.
5. Final Bake
Place the filled tarts back in the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes, or until the filling is golden and bubbling. You can finish them off with a slight broil at the end to get a nice golden top if you wish.
6. Serve
Allow the canapes to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra chopped chives if desired, and arrange them on a platter for your guests to enjoy.
Tips And Tricks
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the pastry shells and filling ahead of time. Simply store the pastry shells in an airtight container at room temperature and the filling in the fridge. Assemble and bake the tarts when ready to serve.
- Roasting Peppers: For a smoky flavor, roast the peppers yourself. Cut them in half, remove the seeds, and place them under a grill or in the oven at 200°C (400°F) until the skins are charred. Then, cover them with a damp cloth and let them steam for 10 minutes before peeling off the skin and chopping.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is the classic choice, try adding a mix of cheeses for more complexity-Gruyère, cream cheese, or even a bit of blue cheese for added tang.
- Chive Substitutes: If you don’t have fresh chives, finely chopped green onions or parsley can also work well in the filling.
- Dairy-Free Version: Swap the cheese and cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives and use a plant-based pastry.
Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese and Chive Canape Tarts are a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. The balance of flavors-the creamy cheese, savory chives, sweet roasted peppers, and crispy pastry-makes each bite irresistible. These tarts are incredibly versatile, making them a go-to appetizer for a wide range of occasions, from intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, the straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients ensure a successful result every time. Plus, they’re an excellent choice for preparing in advance, making them a stress-free option for any host. Give them a try the next time you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something delicious!
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts
Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese and Chive Canape Tarts are a delightful treat, perfect for any gathering or elegant evening affair. But while the original recipe is fantastic as is, there’s always room to get creative in the kitchen. Here are some easy recipe variations that will still capture the essence of the dish but add a unique twist, allowing you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors.
1. Swap The Cheese
The original recipe calls for a mild cheese, like cream cheese or ricotta, paired with sharp chives. However, swapping in different types of cheese can completely alter the flavor profile. Try using goat cheese for a tangier bite, or opt for blue cheese for a bold, savory twist. If you’re in the mood for something a little richer, brie or camembert would lend a smooth, creamy texture to the tarts.
2. Add A Protein
For a heartier version of the canapés, you can easily incorporate some protein. A classic option would be smoked salmon, finely chopped and sprinkled on top of the filling. Alternatively, for a meatier option, crispy bacon bits could offer a satisfying crunch. If you’re vegetarian, a handful of toasted pine nuts or roasted chickpeas can provide a similar texture without the meat.
3. Vary The Vegetables
While red peppers are a key feature in the original canapés, you can experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Sun-dried tomatoes are a great substitute for a more intense, umami-rich flavor. For a milder, more delicate option, steamed asparagus or zucchini ribbons could complement the cheese and chives beautifully. To enhance the visual appeal, try using a mix of yellow and orange peppers for a vibrant color palette.
4. Spice It Up
If you like a little heat, consider adding some finely chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of sriracha to the cheese mixture. This gives the tarts an unexpected kick and can make them stand out on any appetizer table. For those who love earthy spices, a pinch of smoked paprika or cumin could elevate the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish.
5. Make It Vegan
It’s easy to adapt this recipe for vegan diets. Swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative such as cashew cream cheese or vegan ricotta. Instead of traditional pastry, you could use puff pastry made without butter or even opt for sweet potato or cauliflower crusts as a base for an interesting twist. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast could bring that cheesy flavor while keeping it plant-based.
6. Herb Variations
While chives bring a lovely mild onion flavor to the tarts, they aren’t the only herb that can pair beautifully with the cheese and peppers. Try adding fresh basil for a Mediterranean flair or oregano for a bit of an Italian touch. A combination of tarragon and parsley would also create a bright and fresh herbaceous profile.
These simple tweaks ensure that the canapés stay exciting, whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just looking to shake things up in the kitchen. Feel free to explore different combinations, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings!
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any of Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese and Chive Canapé Tarts left after your gathering, don’t worry-storing them properly will ensure they stay delicious for a few extra days. Here’s how you can keep them fresh and tasty:
1. Refrigeration
The best way to store leftovers is by keeping them in an airtight container in the fridge. Once cooled to room temperature, place the tarts in a single layer in the container, and cover them with a lid. If you have multiple layers of tarts, make sure to separate them with a piece of parchment paper to avoid sticking. Stored this way, the canapés should last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
2. Freezing
If you’ve made a large batch and want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Place the tarts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 1 hour until they are firm. Then, transfer them into a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to eat them, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to reheat them.
3. Reheating
To enjoy your leftovers, the best method is to reheat the tarts in the oven. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake them for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. Avoid reheating them in the microwave, as this will result in a soggy base and lose some of the original texture.
By following these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy Mary Berry’s delicious tarts for several more days without compromising on flavor or texture.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts?
These little tarts are perfect as an appetizer on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together or a more formal dinner party, here are some ideas for what to serve alongside them.
1. Salads
A light, refreshing salad can balance out the richness of the tarts. A mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette works beautifully. For something a little more substantial, you could serve a roasted beetroot and goat cheese salad with a honey mustard dressing. The sweetness of the beets and the creamy cheese will complement the savory tarts without overshadowing them.
2. Charcuterie Platter
For a sophisticated touch, a charcuterie board makes a wonderful addition. Include a selection of cured meats like prosciutto, salami, and chorizo. Pair these with some artisanal breads, olives, and a variety of cheeses to create a spread that’s perfect for grazing. The contrast of the salty meats and creamy tarts creates a balanced and flavorful experience.
3. Dips
Consider serving some tangy or creamy dips alongside the tarts. A classic hummus or tzatziki would add a fresh, creamy element to the meal. If you want something a little more indulgent, a rich spinach and artichoke dip can add a satisfying depth of flavor that pairs well with the cheese and chive filling.
4. Soup
For a comforting meal, these canapés pair nicely with a warm bowl of tomato soup or butternut squash soup. The smoothness of the soup complements the texture of the tarts, creating a cozy and balanced meal that feels both luxurious and homely.
5. Sparkling Wine Or Cocktails
The bright, tangy flavors of the red peppers and chives in the canapés are a perfect match for something bubbly. Consider serving them with a glass of Prosecco or a crisp Champagne. If you prefer cocktails, a refreshing Cucumber Gin Fizz or Aperol Spritz would offer a slightly bitter, citrusy contrast to the rich cheese and savory filling of the tarts.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese and Chive Canapé Tarts are a versatile and delicious appetizer that can easily be adapted to suit a variety of tastes and dietary needs. With a few simple swaps, you can create different variations that cater to your personal preferences. The tarts are simple to store, and whether you’re reheating them or freezing them for later, they maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Pair them with a light salad, a charcuterie board, or some vibrant dips for a complete appetizer spread. They’re perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant soirées, and will undoubtedly leave guests impressed. Whether you’re making them for a special event or just as a treat, these tarts are a guaranteed hit!
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts?
To make Mary Berry’s red pepper cheese and chive canape tarts, you’ll need a pack of ready-made shortcrust pastry, red peppers (finely chopped), cheddar cheese (grated), chives (chopped), eggs, double cream, salt, and black pepper. The combination of these ingredients creates a flavorful filling for the tarts.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare these tarts in advance. You can make the tartlets and refrigerate them before baking, or even bake them and store them in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through and crispy.
Can I Customize The Filling For Mary Berry’s Red Pepper Cheese And Chive Canape Tarts?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for red pepper, cheese, and chives, you can get creative with the filling. You can swap the red peppers for other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or spinach. You could also use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to change the flavor profile of the tarts.
