Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making a Cranberry Orange Tart! The first time I baked this beauty, the kitchen was filled with this incredible citrusy aroma that just screamed “cozy holiday vibes.” The combination of a buttery, flaky crust with that tangy cranberry filling is truly something special. It’s like a hug in dessert form! I remember sharing it at a family gathering, and everyone went crazy over it. Trust me, once you make this tart, it’ll be your go-to for any occasion, whether it’s a festive feast or a simple weeknight treat!
Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Tart
For this fabulous Cranberry Orange Tart, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup fresh cranberries, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (grated from a fresh orange)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure your butter is nice and soft for easy mixing, and don’t skimp on the zest—it adds a lovely burst of flavor!
How to Prepare Cranberry Orange Tart
Preparing this Cranberry Orange Tart is a delightful experience that’ll have your taste buds singing! Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a stunning dessert in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s crucial to have that warm environment ready for your tart!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Give it a little stir to mix everything well.
- Add in the softened unsalted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You can use your hands for this—get in there and feel the texture!
- Next, press this crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan. Make sure it’s packed tight, so it holds together beautifully.
- Bake the crust in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until it’s lightly golden. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary!
- While that crust is baking, let’s whip up the filling! In another bowl, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, orange juice, and orange zest. This is where the magic happens!
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and vanilla extract. Once mixed, pour this egg mixture into your cranberry mixture and stir until combined.
- When the crust is done, take it out of the oven and pour that vibrant filling right into the baked crust.
- Pop it back into the oven and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. You want the filling to be set and just slightly jiggly in the center.
- Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely before serving. This helps all those flavors meld together perfectly!
And that’s it! You’re just moments away from enjoying a slice of this tangy, sweet delight!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! While I believe the love you put into baking is what truly counts, it’s good to know what you’re enjoying. Each slice of this Cranberry Orange Tart packs in about 250 calories. You’ll also find 12 grams of fat, including 7 grams of saturated fat, and 3 grams of protein. Carbohydrates come in at about 35 grams, with 18 grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber. Of course, these figures are estimates, and they can vary based on your specific ingredients and serving sizes. So, enjoy this tart and savor every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Tart
- It’s super easy to make, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers!
- The contrast of tart cranberries and sweet orange juice creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
- This tart is stunning enough for holiday gatherings, yet simple enough for a cozy weeknight dessert.
- It pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser.
- Leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day!
Tips for Success with Cranberry Orange Tart
To ensure your Cranberry Orange Tart turns out perfectly, here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, make sure your butter is softened but not melting—it should be like a lovely, spreadable cloud! When preparing the crust, don’t rush the pressing; take your time to pack it tightly so it holds together beautifully after baking. For the filling, be careful not to overmix the eggs; just combine them gently so the tart remains light and fluffy. Lastly, let the tart cool completely before slicing. Trust me, this is where the magic happens, and the flavors truly shine!
Variations of Cranberry Orange Tart
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to mix things up, there are plenty of delicious variations you can try with this Cranberry Orange Tart! For a twist, consider using mixed berries like raspberries or blueberries for a vibrant color and flavor change. You could also substitute the orange juice for lemon juice for a zesty kick. Want to make it a bit more tropical? Add some diced pineapple or mango to the filling! Feeling nutty? Incorporate some chopped walnuts or pecans into the crust for added crunch. Let your creativity shine!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving your Cranberry Orange Tart, the possibilities are endless! I love to pair it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top—it adds a delightful creaminess that balances the tartness beautifully. If you’re feeling indulgent, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce brings everything to a new level of yum! For drinks, a cup of hot spiced tea or a glass of chilled sparkling cider complements the flavors perfectly, making for a truly festive experience!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Cranberry Orange Tart fresh, simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay delicious for up to three days—perfect for enjoying those leftovers! If you want to reheat it, just pop individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or you can warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy that delightful tangy flavor all over again!
For more delicious recipes, check out our all recipes page!
For a similar flavor profile, you might enjoy our Cranberry Orange Loaf recipe!
Learn more about the health benefits of cranberries here.