Mary Berry Butterscotch Tart

The Mary Berry Butterscotch Tart is a classic British dessert known for its rich, caramel-like flavor and smooth texture, nestled within a buttery pastry crust. While Mary Berry herself is a renowned figure in the culinary world, known for her simple yet delicious recipes, the specific details of this recipe were gathered from various sources, providing a comprehensive guide to recreate this beloved dessert.

Mary Berry Butterscotch Tart Recipe Overview

Cultural or Historical Context
The butterscotch tart is a nostalgic dessert for many, often reminiscent of school dinners or childhood memories. It's a simple yet indulgent treat that has stood the test of time in British baking.

Ingredients for the Butterscotch Tart

For the Pastry:

• 175g butter
• A pinch of salt
• 25g icing sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 egg yolk
• 275g plain flour

For the Filling:

• 110ml milk
• 2 tablespoons cornflour
• 180g butter
• A pinch of salt
• 180g light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparation Instructions

1. Pastry Preparation: Begin by creaming together butter and sugar until pale, then incorporate the egg. Mix in flour and salt to form a dough. Chill before rolling out to line a tart tin.
2. Filling Preparation: Combine milk, cornflour, and sugar. In a saucepan, melt the butter, then gradually whisk in the milk mixture until thickened. Add vanilla extract.
3. Assembly: Pour the filling into the prepared pastry case and chill until set.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Keep the tart in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in slices for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge overnight.

Nutritional Information

The butterscotch tart is high in calories due to its butter and sugar content, providing a rich source of carbohydrates. For specific nutritional details, consider the amounts of butter, sugar, and flour used.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use store-bought pastry? Yes, a store-bought sweet pastry case can be used for convenience.
• What if I can't find cornflour? Cornflour is crucial for thickening the filling, but in a pinch, a similar starch could be substituted, keeping in mind the texture may vary.

Final Thoughts
Serve this delightful tart as is or elevate it with a side of whipped cream, custard, or fresh fruit for a more decadent dessert experience. This tart is sure to be a hit, bringing a touch of nostalgia and warmth to any gathering.

Original recipe inspiration: While this recipe is inspired by Mary Berry, known for her simple yet elegant desserts, detailed adaptations and additional insights were referenced from Great British Recipes​​, Flawless Food​​, and Kitchen Mason​​ to ensure a comprehensive guide suitable for both novice and experienced bakers alike.