Roasted Grape and Thyme Tartlets with Goat Cheese Custard

Roasted Grape and Thyme Tartlets with Goat Cheese Custard

Indulge in the delightful fusion of sweet and savory with our Roasted Grape & Thyme Tartlets with Goat Cheese Custard. This exquisite dish presents caramelized grapes bursting with juice atop a creamy goat cheese custard, all nestled within a flaky, buttery crust infused with fresh thyme. Each bite is a celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

The Roasted Grape & Thyme Tartlets are not only visually stunning but also a culinary triumph. The combination of tangy goat cheese custard and sweet roasted grapes creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to impress. These tartlets are versatile, making them suitable for appetizers, canapés, or even dessert. They are particularly perfect for wine nights, holiday gatherings, or any moment you wish to indulge in a gourmet experience at home.

Pro Tips for Making the Tartlets

To achieve the best results with this recipe, consider the following tips:

  • Use cold butter for the pastry to ensure a flaky texture.
  • Don’t skip the chilling time for the dough; this helps maintain its structure during baking.
  • Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or herbs in the custard for varied flavors.
  • Make sure to roast the grapes until they are caramelized for the best taste and texture.
  • For added elegance, garnish the tartlets with microgreens or a drizzle of honey right before serving.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make these delightful tartlets:

  • Buttery Tartlet Shells:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 115 g unsalted butter, cold and cubed
    • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 3-4 tablespoons ice water
  • Goat Cheese Custard:
    • 100 g creamy goat cheese
    • 1 large egg
    • 2 tablespoons heavy cream
    • 1 teaspoon honey
    • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Roasted Grapes:
    • 1 cup red or black seedless grapes
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
    • 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
    • Pinch of flaky salt
  • Garnish:
    • Microgreens or extra thyme tips
    • Optional: drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough: In a food processor, combine the flour, thyme, and salt. Pulse briefly to mix. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually drizzle in ice water, pulsing until the dough starts to come together. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.

Step 2: Shape the Shells: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to cut circles that fit your mini tartlet pans or muffin tins. Press the circles into the greased pans and trim any excess dough. Place them in the fridge while you preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

Step 3: Blind Bake: Prick the dough bases with a fork, then line them with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 12 minutes in the preheated oven. Remove the parchment and weights, and bake for an additional 5-6 minutes until lightly golden. Allow the shells to cool slightly.

Step 4: Roast the Grapes: While the shells are cooling, toss the grapes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, thyme, and flaky salt. Spread the grapes on a parchment-lined baking tray and roast in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes until they are soft and caramelized. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 5: Mix the Custard: In a blender or mixing bowl, add the goat cheese, egg, heavy cream, honey, and a generous amount of black pepper. Blend until smooth and well-combined.

Step 6: Assemble & Bake: Spoon the goat cheese custard into the pre-baked tartlet shells, filling them about three-quarters full. Top each custard-filled shell with a few roasted grapes. Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 12-14 minutes until the custard is just set.

Step 7: Finish & Garnish: Once baked, remove the tartlets from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Just before serving, garnish with microgreens or extra thyme tips, and add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze if desired.

FAQ

Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the tartlet shells and custard in advance. Simply assemble the tartlets just before baking for the best texture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! While goat cheese offers a unique flavor, you can experiment with other creamy cheeses such as ricotta or cream cheese.

What can I serve with these tartlets?

These tartlets pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or a light salad for a complete meal experience.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in an oven before serving.

Can I substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme?

While fresh thyme gives the best flavor, you can use dried thyme in a pinch. Just use about one-third the amount as dried herbs are more potent.

Conclusion

Experience the delightful combination of sweet and savory with these elegant Roasted Grape & Thyme Tartlets. Perfect for impressing guests at your next gathering or just treating yourself, these tartlets offer a wonderful mix of flavors and textures that deliver a truly gourmet experience at home. Don’t forget to take advantage of the flexibility of ingredients and enjoy the culinary creativity this recipe invites!

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