Mary Berry Treacle Tart Recipe

Dive into the world of classic British desserts with the Mary Berry Treacle Tart, a delightful sweet treat that combines the rich, sticky flavors of golden syrup with the tanginess of lemon, all encased in a buttery shortcrust pastry. This recipe stands as a testament to Mary Berry's expertise in creating desserts that balance flavors and textures perfectly, making it a must-try for baking enthusiasts.

Mary Berry Treacle Tart Recipe: A Sweet British Classic

Brief Description

The Treacle Tart is a quintessential British dessert, featuring a golden syrup filling enriched with breadcrumbs and lemon zest, nestled in a flaky shortcrust pastry. The tart's history dates back to the 19th century, making it a beloved staple in British culinary tradition.

Cultural or Historical Context

Treacle tarts have been warming hearts and homes since golden syrup became widely available. Mary Berry, a revered figure in the baking world, has popularized this dessert, making it a cherished recipe in many households and a technical challenge in the world of competitive baking.

Ingredients List

• For the Pastry
  • 250g plain flour
  • 130g unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • Approximately 3 tbsp icy water
  • 1 beaten egg, for glazing
• For the Filling
  • 400g golden syrup
  • Around 150g fine, fresh white breadcrumbs
  • Zest and juice of 2 large unwaxed lemons

Preparation Instructions

1. Start by making the pastry: mix flour and butter to achieve a breadcrumb-like texture, then add water to form a dough. Chill for 20 minutes.
2. Roll out the pastry, line a flan tin, and prick the base. Prepare the rest of the pastry for the lattice top and chill.
3. For the filling, warm the syrup gently, then mix in breadcrumbs and lemon zest and juice. Cool slightly before filling the pastry case.
4. Weave a lattice top over the filling, bake initially at high temperature, then lower and bake until set and golden.

Storage and Reheating

Cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Treacle tart can be enjoyed at room temperature or gently reheated for a warm treat.

Nutritional Information

Each serving is rich in carbohydrates, with a balance of fats and a modest amount of protein. The golden syrup contributes to the tart's calorie count but also to its irresistible taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use different types of syrup? Golden syrup is recommended for its unique flavor and consistency.
• How do I prevent the pastry from becoming soggy? Pricking the base and baking at a high temperature initially can help ensure a crisp pastry.
• Can the tart be frozen? Yes, it can be frozen before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

This recipe, attributed to Mary Berry, showcases her ability to create desserts that are both simple and sophisticated. It's a baking challenge worth undertaking, perfect for any occasion or simply as a comforting treat​​​​​​​​.