Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mixed Berry Tart is a light yet indulgent treat that brings together the sweetness of berries and the tanginess of cream cheese. The addition of orange liqueur or juice provides a refreshing citrus note that balances the sweetness of the berries perfectly. The best part? This recipe is easy to make and looks elegant, making it perfect for any occasion. The fresh, colorful toppings not only make the tart visually appealing but also enhance the overall flavor profile.
Ingredients
- 1 Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust (from 14.1-ounce box), softened as directed on the box
- 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange-flavored liqueur or orange juice
- 4 cups assorted fresh whole berries (small strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and/or blackberries)
- 1/3 cup red currant jelly, melted
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the softened pie crust in a tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Prick the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Let it cool completely before filling.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sugar. Add the orange-flavored liqueur or orange juice and mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Tart: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly across the cooled pie crust.
- Top with Berries: Gently arrange the assorted fresh berries on top of the cream cheese layer. You can use a mix of small strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries for a colorful and vibrant tart.
- Glaze the Tart: Heat the red currant jelly in the microwave or on the stove until it’s melted and smooth. Brush the melted jelly over the berries to give the tart a beautiful glossy finish.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours before serving to allow it to set. Once chilled, slice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 8-10 people.
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 10-12 minutes (for the crust)
- Chill Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Variations
- Crust: If you prefer, you can substitute the Pillsbury pie crust with a homemade shortcrust pastry or even a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
- Fruit Variations: Swap the berries for other fresh fruits like peaches, kiwi, or even mango for a tropical twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover tart in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Reheating: This tart is best served chilled and does not need reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?
While fresh berries are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use frozen berries. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this tart a day in advance. Simply refrigerate it overnight and serve chilled the next day.
Can I skip the red currant jelly glaze?
The jelly glaze adds a beautiful shine and extra sweetness, but you can skip it if you prefer a less sweet tart or want to keep it simpler.
How do I prevent the tart crust from getting soggy?
Let the crust cool completely before adding the cream cheese filling, and avoid adding any liquid to the filling that could soak into the crust.
Can I make this tart without a tart pan?
You can use a regular pie dish if you don’t have a tart pan. Just be sure to adjust the proportions of the ingredients if necessary.
How do I make the cream cheese filling fluffier?
If you prefer a fluffier filling, you can beat the cream cheese mixture with an electric mixer to incorporate more air and make it lighter.
Can I use a different jelly for the glaze?
Yes, you can use other fruit jellies like apricot or strawberry for the glaze, depending on your preference.
Can I add a layer of whipped cream?
For extra richness, you can top the cream cheese layer with a thin layer of whipped cream before adding the berries.
How do I cut the tart neatly?
Use a sharp knife and clean it between each cut to ensure you get clean slices.
How do I prevent the tart from getting too sweet?
Adjust the amount of sugar in the cream cheese filling to your taste. You can reduce it for a less sweet flavor.
Conclusion
Mixed Berry Tart is a perfect dessert for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of creamy, fruity, and slightly tangy flavors. With its easy-to-follow recipe, it’s a great option for both beginner and experienced bakers. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a party, this tart is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious taste.
Print
Fresh Mixed Berry Tart
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Mixed Berry Tart is a vibrant and indulgent dessert that combines a buttery pie crust with a creamy cream cheese filling, topped with an assortment of fresh berries and finished with a glossy red currant jelly glaze. This easy-to-make tart is perfect for any occasion and offers a perfect balance of creamy, fruity, and slightly tangy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 Pillsbury refrigerated pie crust (from 14.1-ounce box), softened as directed on the box
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon orange-flavored liqueur or orange juice
For the Topping:
4 cups assorted fresh whole berries (small strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and/or blackberries)
For the Glaze:
1/3 cup red currant jelly, melted
Instructions
-
Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the softened pie crust in a tart pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Prick the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely before filling.
-
Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and sugar. Add the orange liqueur or orange juice and mix until smooth and creamy.
-
Assemble the Tart: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled pie crust.
-
Top with Berries: Gently arrange the assorted fresh berries on top of the cream cheese layer, creating a colorful and vibrant arrangement.
-
Glaze the Tart: Heat the red currant jelly in the microwave or on the stove until smooth and melted. Brush the melted jelly over the berries to give the tart a beautiful glossy finish.
-
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours before serving. Once chilled, slice and enjoy!
Notes
Crust Variations: You can swap the Pillsbury pie crust with homemade shortcrust pastry or a graham cracker crust for a different texture.
Fruit Variations: Use other fresh fruits like peaches, kiwi, or mango for a tropical twist.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Tarts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American