How to Make a Traditional English Custard Tart

How to Make a Traditional English Custard Tart

A classic English custard tart is a delightful dessert with a rich, creamy filling encased in a crisp, buttery pastry. This traditional treat has been enjoyed in Britain for centuries and remains a favorite in bakeries and homes alike. Here’s how you can make your own perfect custard tart from scratch.

Ingredients

For the Pastry:

• 250g (2 cups) plain flour
• 125g (½ cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 50g (¼ cup) caster sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 tbsp cold water

For the Custard Filling:

• 300ml (1¼ cups) whole milk
• 200ml (¾ cup) double cream
• 3 large eggs
• 2 egg yolks
• 75g (⅓ cup) caster sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or 1 vanilla pod
• Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pastry

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, rub the cold butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the caster sugar.
2. Bind the Dough: Add the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Add more water if needed, but avoid making the dough too wet.
3. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Tart Case

1. Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll the pastry to about 3mm thick. Carefully lift it into a 23cm (9-inch) tart tin.
2. Trim & Chill: Trim the edges, leaving a slight overhang to account for shrinkage. Chill for another 15-20 minutes.
3. Blind Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line the pastry with parchment paper and fill with baking beans or dried rice. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for another 5-10 minutes until lightly golden. Let it cool.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

1. Heat the Milk & Cream: In a saucepan, gently heat the milk and double cream over low heat until warm but not boiling. If using a vanilla pod, split it and scrape the seeds into the milk, then add the pod. Remove from heat and let infuse for a few minutes.
2. Whisk the Eggs & Sugar: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and caster sugar until combined but not frothy.
3. Combine the Mixtures: Slowly pour the warm milk mixture into the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Strain through a sieve to remove any lumps or vanilla pod remnants.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the Custard: Carefully pour the custard into the baked tart shell, filling it close to the top.
2. Bake: Reduce oven temperature to 160°C (320°F) and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the custard is just set with a slight wobble in the center.
3. Cool & Serve: Allow the tart to cool completely before slicing. Sprinkle with freshly grated nutmeg for authentic flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Custard Tart

• Avoid Overbaking: The custard should have a gentle wobble when taken out of the oven; it will firm up as it cools.
• Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Ensure the pastry is fully baked before adding the custard to keep it crisp.
• Use Fresh Nutmeg: Grating nutmeg over the tart just before serving enhances the traditional flavor.

Enjoy your homemade traditional English custard tart, perfect with a cup of tea!