Cherry Vanilla Shortbread Tart
A delightful and simple tart combining buttery shortbread crust with cherry preserves and a hint of vanilla, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 1 cup butter (at room temperature) Adds richness and moisture
- ½ cup sugar Provides sweetness and helps with browning
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed) Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract Infuses aromatic flavor
- 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour Forms the structure of the crust
- ½ teaspoon salt Balances sweetness
For the filling
- 1 cup cherry preserves (or good quality cherry jam) Adds fruity sweetness and moisture
- 1 cup fresh or frozen pitted cherries Enhances texture and flavor
For the glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar For a sweet glaze
- 1 teaspoon vanilla paste or vanilla extract Adds depth to the glaze
- 1 tablespoon melted butter Helps combine the glaze
- 1-2 tablespoons milk Adds moisture to the glaze
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by creaming the butter along with the granulated sugar and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl.
- Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to mix until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla bean paste or pure vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Gradually incorporate the flour and salt into the mixture, blending carefully with your spatula.
- Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a baking pan to form a crust.
Baking
- Bake the crust until it turns a light golden brown, then let it cool completely in the pan.
- Spread the cherry preserves evenly over the cooled crust.
- Scatter the fresh or frozen pitted cherries over the preserves.
Glazing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla paste or extract, melted butter, and milk to create a glaze.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cherries and preserves, allowing it to set before serving.
Notes
Use quality cherry preserves or jam for the best flavor, and consider switching jam flavors or adding nuts for variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container.