Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Creamy Fig and Mascarpone Tart is a stunning dessert that blends sophisticated flavors in the most delicious way. The rich mascarpone filling is complemented by the fresh sweetness of figs, and the lemon zest adds a refreshing citrus note. The tart’s golden, buttery crust holds everything together beautifully. It’s simple to make, yet fancy enough for any special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Tart:
- 1 pre-baked tart crust (9-inch)
- 8 oz mascarpone cheese
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 6 ripe fresh figs, quartered
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
1. Preheat and Bake the Tart Crust
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a pre-made tart crust, bake it until golden brown, following the package instructions.
2. Prepare the Mascarpone Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
3. Slice the Figs
Quarter the fresh figs and set them aside. You’ll use these to decorate the tart after the filling is spread.
4. Assemble the Tart
Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the baked and cooled tart crust. Arrange the quartered figs on top, creating a beautiful pattern or a rustic design.
5. Bake the Tart
Place the tart in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice the tart into 8 pieces. Serve it at room temperature or chilled. This tart is perfect as a dessert or as part of an elegant brunch spread.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 slices
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Nuts: Add toasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Fruit: You can substitute figs with other fruits such as pears or peaches for a different twist.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg in the mascarpone filling for a warm, cozy flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep any leftover tart in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Serve the tart chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes! This tart is great for making ahead of time. You can prepare it the day before your event and refrigerate it until ready to serve. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Can I use frozen figs instead of fresh ones?
While fresh figs are ideal for this tart, you can use thawed frozen figs in a pinch. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture from the figs before adding them to the tart.
Can I substitute mascarpone cheese with something else?
Yes, you can substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a slightly tangier flavor, though the texture will be a little different.
Conclusion
The Creamy Fig and Mascarpone Tart is a perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s a showstopper that’s simple to make and combines creamy, sweet, and fresh flavors into every bite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just indulging in a special treat at home, this tart is sure to impress. Enjoy the beauty and flavors of this delightful dessert!
Creamy Fig and Mascarpone Tart
The **Creamy Fig and Mascarpone Tart** is an elegant dessert that perfectly combines the natural sweetness of ripe figs with the rich, creamy texture of mascarpone cheese. Its buttery tart crust serves as a delicate base for a luscious filling, making it the ideal treat for any gathering. Whether it’s a summer picnic, holiday dinner, or a cozy evening at home, this tart will impress both visually and with its delightful flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
1 pre-baked tart crust (9-inch)
8 oz mascarpone cheese
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
6 ripe fresh figs, quartered
Instructions
- Preheat and Bake the Tart Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). If using a pre-made tart crust, bake it until golden brown, following the package instructions.
- Prepare the Mascarpone Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend the mixture until smooth and creamy.
- Slice the Figs: Quarter the fresh figs and set them aside. You’ll use these to decorate the tart after the filling is spread.
- Assemble the Tart: Spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the baked and cooled tart crust. Arrange the quartered figs on top, creating a beautiful pattern or a rustic design.
- Bake the Tart: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, slice the tart into 8 pieces. Serve it at room temperature or chilled. This tart is perfect as a dessert or as part of an elegant brunch spread.
Notes
Nuts: Add toasted almonds, pistachios, or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
Fruit: You can substitute figs with other fruits such as pears or peaches for a different twist.
Spices: Experiment with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg in the mascarpone filling for a warm, cozy flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg