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Bakewell Tart: A British Classic of Almond Frangipane and Raspberry Jam

The Bakewell tart is a quintessential British dessert, renowned for its delightful combination of textures and flavours. Originating from the charming market town of Bakewell in Derbyshire, this classic tart has won the hearts of many and has become a staple of British tea tables and dessert menus. With its layers of buttery pastry, sweet raspberry jam, and rich almond frangipane, the Bakewell tart is a perfect representation of traditional British baking at its best.

A Brief History

The origins of the Bakewell tart can be traced back to the 19th century, although its exact inception remains somewhat shrouded in mystery. The most popular tale suggests that the dessert was born from a culinary mishap involving a cook at the White Horse Inn. Tasked with making a jam tart, the cook accidentally mixed up the instructions, leading to the creation of the frangipane filling. This happy accident resulted in a delicious tart that quickly became a local favourite.

Over the years, the Bakewell tart has evolved, with variations appearing across the UK. While the traditional recipe typically features a shortcrust pastry base, raspberry jam, and almond frangipane, some variations incorporate elements like icing or toasted flaked almonds on top. One closely related variant is the Bakewell pudding, which has a puff pastry base and is noted for its custard-like filling.

The Components of a Classic Bakewell Tart

1. Shortcrust Pastry: The base of the tart is a crumbly shortcrust pastry, which serves as the perfect foundation for the fruity and nutty layers above. Made simply with flour, butter, sugar, and eggs, the pastry should be chilled before baking to achieve a light, crisp texture.

2. Raspberry Jam: A generous layer of raspberry jam is spread over the pastry before adding the frangipane. The tartness of the jam complements the sweetness of the frangipane, creating a balanced flavour profile that is both fruity and nutty.

3. Almond Frangipane: The star of the Bakewell tart is undoubtedly the frangipane filling, made with ground almonds, butter, sugar, and eggs. This mixture is exceptionally moist and light, with the almonds contributing a rich flavour that elevates the tart to new heights. A touch of almond extract can be added for those who wish to intensify the almond notes.

4. Toppings: Traditional Bakewell tarts are often finished with a light drizzle of icing or a dusting of icing sugar. Some may even top it with flaked almonds for added texture and visual appeal.

Making Your Own Bakewell Tart

Creating a Bakewell tart at home is a delightful endeavour and allows for personalisation. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

For the pastry:

• 225g plain flour
• 100g unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 50g icing sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1-2 tbsp cold water

For the frangipane:

• 125g unsalted butter, softened
• 125g caster sugar
• 125g ground almonds
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp almond extract (optional)

For assembly:

• 150g raspberry jam
• Icing sugar for dusting (optional)
• Flaked almonds for topping (optional)

Method:

1. Make the pastry: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, butter, and icing sugar, then rub together until it resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until it forms a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven: Heat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.

3. Roll out the pastry: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pastry to fit a tart tin. Line the tin and trim the edges, then prick the base with a fork and bake blind (with baking beans) for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until lightly golden.

4. Prepare the frangipane: In a bowl, cream the softened butter and caster sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, followed by the ground almonds and almond extract.

5. Assemble the tart: Spread a layer of raspberry jam over the pastry base, then spoon the frangipane mixture on top, spreading it evenly.

6. Bake: Bake the tart for 25-30 minutes, or until the frangipane is golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.

7. Cool and serve: Allow the tart to cool before dusting with icing sugar or topping with flaked almonds, if desired.

Enjoying Your Bakewell Tart

Serve your Bakewell tart alongside a cup of British tea for a truly delightful afternoon treat. Its rich flavours and pleasing textures make it an indulgent dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a picnic in the park, or simply a comforting slice enjoyed at home.

The Bakewell tart not only represents a rich culinary history but also captures the essence of British baking: simple, comforting, and deliciously satisfying. So why not don your apron and give this British classic a go? With every bite, you’ll be savouring a piece of history that continues to delight dessert lovers across the nation.

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