Manchester Tart Recipe by Mary Berry

The Manchester Tart is a classic British dessert, characterized by its flaky pastry base, creamy custard filling, and a vibrant topping of jam, coconut, and cherries. This dessert is a delightful journey into classic British baking, perfect for family desserts or gatherings with friends​​.

Ingredients List

For the Pastry:

• Cold butter
• Plain flour
• Egg

For the Custard:

• Sugar
• Plain flour
• Vanilla extract
• Egg yolks
• Milk

For the Decoration:

• Desiccated coconut
• Maraschino cherries
• Strawberry or raspberry jam

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry: Begin by making the pastry. Sift flour into a bowl, add diced cold butter, and rub until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Stir in a beaten egg and form into a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Roll and Bake the Pastry: Preheat the oven, roll out the pastry, and line a tart tin. Prick the base with a fork, blind bake, then bake until golden.
3. Make the Custard: Mix egg yolks, sugar, flour, and vanilla extract. Heat the milk and whisk into the egg mixture. Cook until thickened and then cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Tart: Spread jam over the pastry base, pour the custard, and let it set slightly. Sprinkle with coconut and decorate with cherries.
5. Chill and Serve: Chill the tart in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving​​​​.

Storage and Reheating

Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before storing, ensure it's completely cool. For reheating, it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature to preserve its original texture and flavor​​.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 390 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 25g​​

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I make a lactose-free version? Yes, substitute regular milk in the custard with a lactose-free alternative like almond, soy, or oat milk.
• How to prevent a soggy pastry? Blind bake the pastry before adding the wet ingredients.
• Can this tart be made ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and chill it in the refrigerator.
• Gluten-free option? Use a gluten-free flour blend for the pastry and ensure other ingredients like custard powder are gluten-free.
• Variations? Try different jams like apricot or blackcurrant, or add a layer of sliced bananas for a fruity twist​​.

Creating a Manchester Tart is a delightful experience that combines the joy of baking with the pleasure of savoring a classic dessert. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe is straightforward and yields a delicious tart that’s sure to please everyone. Enjoy this timeless British pudding by Mary Berry at your next gathering!