Matcha Custard Tartlets

Short Description

Matcha custard tartlets are elegant mini desserts that feature a crisp, buttery pastry shell filled with smooth, creamy custard infused with the earthy richness of matcha green tea. These refined tartlets are perfect for tea parties, special occasions, or simply as a unique and indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced flavors: the mild bitterness of matcha complements the sweet, silky custard beautifully.

• Visually stunning: the vibrant green custard creates a striking presentation in golden tart shells.

• Perfectly portioned: individual tartlets make serving easy and mess-free.

• Make-ahead friendly: both the crust and custard can be prepared in advance.

• A sophisticated twist on traditional custard tarts.

• Great for matcha lovers and those new to green tea desserts.

• Easily adaptable to dietary preferences.

• Ideal for entertaining or gifting.

• Light yet satisfying.

• Combines classic French technique with Japanese flavors.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• all-purpose flour

• granulated sugar

• cold unsalted butter

• ice-cold water

• whole milk

• heavy cream

• egg yolks

• cornstarch

• matcha powder

• sea salt

• vanilla extract

directions

1. Prepare the crust: Combine flour and sugar. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water gradually until dough forms. Wrap and chill for 1 hour.

2. Roll dough and press into tartlet pans. Freeze for 15 minutes, then blind-bake at 400°F (204°C) for 15 minutes with pie weights, and another 15 minutes without. Cool completely.

3. Make the custard: Heat milk and cream until steaming. In a separate bowl, whisk egg yolks with sugar, flour, cornstarch, matcha, salt, and vanilla until smooth. Slowly pour in the hot milk mixture while whisking.

4. Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat and cool over an ice bath. Cover and refrigerate until chilled.

5. Assemble tartlets: Fill each tartlet shell with chilled matcha custard. Smooth the tops and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yields: 8 tartlets

• Prep time: 1 hour

• Cooking time: 45 minutes

• Chill time: 2 hours

• Total time: approximately 3 hours 45 minutes

Variations

• Use one large tart pan instead of individual tartlet molds.

• Swap matcha for hojicha powder for a roasted tea flavor.

• Add a thin layer of white chocolate at the base of the tart shell before filling.

• Garnish with fresh berries, whipped cream, or edible flowers.

• Make gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.

storage/reheating

• Store tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Best served chilled.

• Reheating is not necessary and not recommended for custard texture.

• Not suitable for freezing, as the custard may separate.

FAQs

What type of matcha should I use?

Use culinary-grade matcha for baking. It provides a good balance of color and flavor.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can blind-bake the tartlet shells up to 2 days in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Why is my custard lumpy?

Lumps form if the egg mixture is heated too quickly. Make sure to temper the eggs slowly and stir constantly.

Do I need to blind-bake the tartlet shells?

Yes, blind-baking ensures a crisp crust that holds up well to the custard filling.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the milk and cream with plant-based alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.

How can I decorate the tartlets?

Dust with additional matcha powder, pipe whipped cream on top, or add fruit like raspberries or kiwi for a pop of color.

Can I use pre-made tartlet shells?

Yes, pre-made tartlet shells can save time and still yield delicious results.

How long should the custard chill before serving?

Allow at least 2 hours in the refrigerator for the custard to fully set.

Can I freeze these tartlets?

Freezing is not recommended, as the custard may lose its smooth texture when thawed.

What can I serve with these tartlets?

Serve with green tea, jasmine tea, or a light white wine to complement the flavors.

Conclusion

Matcha custard tartlets are a refined and delightful dessert, combining the rich, creamy texture of custard with the earthy sophistication of matcha. These elegant tartlets are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate, making them a perfect treat for entertaining or indulging in a touch of culinary luxury

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