Ever wanted to bake a dessert that looks stunning but is surprisingly simple to make? This foolproof blackberry and bay tart is your answer. It features a crumbly, buttery pastry and a deeply flavorful homemade jam, making it perfect for novice bakers who want to create something special. The recipe breaks down each stage, from jam-making to lattice work, into easy-to-follow steps.
First, you’ll create a simple yet elegant blackberry and bay jam. This involves letting blackberries sit with sugar and lemon juice for at least an hour to become syrupy. Then, you’ll simmer them with bay leaves until the mixture thickens. A clever trick using a chilled saucer helps you know exactly when the jam has reached the perfect consistency. The aromatic bay leaf adds a sophisticated twist to the classic fruit filling.
Next comes the pastry. This is a simple stir-and-knead dough that doesn’t require any complicated techniques. You’ll beat butter and sugar, whisk in eggs, and then fold in the dry ingredients. After a quick knead, the dough is divided and chilled. Chilling is essential as it makes the rich, buttery dough firm and easy to roll out without sticking.
The assembly is straightforward and fun. A larger piece of dough is pressed into a tart tin to form the base. After pricking the bottom with a fork, you’ll spoon in the cooled jam. The second piece of dough is cut into strips to create a lovely lattice pattern over the top. Don’t worry about perfection; a rustic look is part of its charm.
A light brush of milk before baking gives the pastry a beautiful golden finish. Bake until the crust is browned and the jam is bubbling gently at the edges. Allowing the tart to cool completely is the final, vital step, ensuring clean slices and a perfectly set filling. Enjoy this delightful bake that proves you don’t need to be a pastry chef to make a showstopper.