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There’s something incredibly heartwarming about the flavors of a classic Bakewell tart. Picture this: the buttery aroma of freshly baked pastry mingling with the sweet scent of raspberry jam and nutty frangipane as it fills your kitchen. Inspired by the esteemed Mary Berry, this luscious dessert is not just a treat; it’s a delightful journey back to traditional British baking.

Whether you’re hosting an afternoon tea or just seeking a sweet escape from the monotony of fast food, this Bakewell tart is your answer. It strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and simplicity, making it achievable for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. Plus, with the versatility of jam flavors and icing options, you can easily customize it to suit any occasion or palate. Trust me; once you take a bite, the rich texture and delightful sweetness will have you creating this gem again and again!

Why will you love Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart?

Comforting, Classic Charm: This Bakewell tart brings a nostalgic warmth that evokes memories of family gatherings and tea time.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap out the raspberry jam for your favorite flavors, making it truly your own.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even kitchen novices will find success in creating this masterpiece.
Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal celebrations, it appeals to everyone!
Rich, Nutty Flavor: The ground almonds in the frangipane create a deliciously unique taste that is simply irresistible.
Experience the joy of baking with this classic recipe that promises to become a cherished favorite in your home!

Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart Ingredients

For the Pastry
• Plain Flour – Provides the essential structure for the pastry; try gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
• Chilled Butter – Adds richness and tenderness to the crust; use margarine for a dairy-free alternative.
• Cold Water – Binds the pastry ingredients together; make adjustments to the quantity as needed.
For the Filling
• Raspberry Jam – Offers sweetness and a burst of fruity flavor; substitute with your favorite jam, like strawberry or cherry.
• Butter – Ensures a moist, flavorful frangipane layer; no substitutes here, as it’s key for richness.
• Caster Sugar – Adds sweetness to the filling; granulated sugar can work, but may affect the texture slightly.
• Ground Almonds – This is the star ingredient for a delightful nutty frangipane; ground hazelnuts are a tasty alternative if wanted.
• Free-Range Egg – Binds the filling together; consider a flax egg or chia seed mixture for a vegan option.
• Almond Extract – Intensifies the almond flavor, making it more aromatic; vanilla extract can be used for a milder profile.
• Flaked Almonds – Provides a delightful crunch on top; these can be omitted if you prefer a simpler look.
For the Icing
• Icing Sugar – Drizzle on top to add sweetness; make a simpler finish with a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Dive into the magic of Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart, where each ingredient combines to create a true masterpiece that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds!

How to Make Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart

Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry: In a mixing bowl, blend the plain flour and chilled butter until you achieve a breadcrumb-like texture. Gradually mix in cold water until the dough forms a soft consistency.
Chill the Pastry: Roll out the pastry and carefully lay it into a flan tin. Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up the dough before baking.
Blind Bake the Pastry: Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan). Line the pastry with baking paper and add baking beans, then bake for 15 minutes. Remove the beans and paper, baking for an additional 5 minutes until the base is set and dry.
Prepare the Filling: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the cooled pastry base. In a separate bowl, melt the butter, then whisk in caster sugar, ground almonds, the beaten egg, and almond extract until wonderfully combined.
Bake the Tart: Carefully pour the filling over the jam layer and sprinkle flaked almonds on top. Bake for about 35 minutes until the tart is golden and the filling is set.
Prepare Icing: Once the tart has cooled, mix icing sugar with a splash of water until smooth. Drizzle this delightful icing over the top for that perfect finishing touch.

Optional: For an extra-luxurious treat, serve with a dollop of clotted cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart

Feel free to explore your creativity with this delightful recipe and make it truly yours!

Fruit Jam: Swap out raspberry jam for strawberry, cherry, or apricot to tailor the flavor to your liking. Each jam brings a unique twist to this classic tart.
Nut-Free: Replace ground almonds with ground sunflower seeds for a nut-free version, perfect for those with allergies. The sunflower seeds lend a different but tasty flavor profile.
Dairy-Free: Use margarine instead of chilled butter in the pastry and filling for a completely dairy-free Bakewell tart. It’s just as rich and satisfying!
Thicker Icing: If you prefer a more decadent dessert, triple the icing quantity for a sumptuous coating instead of just a drizzle.
Flavored Almond Extract: Try using orange or lemon extract for a refreshing citrusy kick instead of the traditional almond extract. It brightens up the flavor beautifully!
Texture Twist: Add flaked coconut to the frangipane mix for a delightful chewy texture that complements the nutty flavors.
Chocolate Variation: For chocolate lovers, mix in cocoa powder into the frangipane or drizzle melted chocolate over the icing for a mocha-inspired treat.
Spiced Frangipane: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to your filling for a warm, aromatic twist that elevates the dessert to a whole new level.

Enjoy every moment of customizing your Bakewell tart! Each variation adds a personal touch that makes it even more special for family and friends.

Make Ahead Options

Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easier for busy home cooks to enjoy this delightful dessert without the last-minute rush. You can prepare the shortcrust pastry and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking, which ensures a crisp base. Additionally, the frangipane filling can be mixed and covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preventing any drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the raspberry jam over the chilled pastry, pour in the prepared filling, and bake as directed, yielding a tart that tastes just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart

Keep It Cold: Ensure all pastry ingredients remain cold prior to mixing; this leads to a flakier crust, critical for your Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart.
Avoid Overbaking: If the tart browns too quickly, cover it with foil after 20 minutes to allow the filling to set without burning.
Blind Baking Technique: Scrunch up the baking paper before using it to help it sit snugly in the tin, preventing the pastry from shrinking.
Jamming Flavorful Layers: Experiment with various jam flavors, but spread the jam evenly to create a balanced taste in your Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart.
Icing Tips: For a thicker icing, omit the almonds and triple the icing quantity, but ensure the tart is thoroughly cooled to prevent melting.

How to Store and Freeze Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart

Room Temperature: Store the tart uncovered for up to 1 day at room temperature if you plan to enjoy it right away.
Fridge: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. This will help keep the frangipane moist and flavorful.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the uniced tart wrapped well in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: If serving warm, reheat in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10–15 minutes. Add icing after reheating for the best results.

What to Serve with Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart?

Indulging in a slice of this delightful Bakewell tart is even better when paired with complementary flavors and textures that elevate your dessert experience.

Clotted Cream: The rich, creamy texture of clotted cream balances the sweetness of the tart, adding an indulgent touch for a truly luxurious experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm tart, offering a refreshing flavor that enhances each bite.
Fresh Berries: Serve with mixed fresh berries like raspberries and blueberries for a pop of color and a tartness that beautifully cuts through the sweetness.
Almond Biscotti: The crunchy texture of almond biscotti echoes the nutty flavors of the Bakewell tart and is perfect for a delightful post-dinner treat.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a fragrant pot of tea elevates the experience, allowing the flavors of the Bakewell tart to shine even more as you sip.
Lemon Curd: A small dollop of tangy lemon curd on the side brightens the dish, adding a zesty contrast to the almond-infused sweetness, inviting a delightful flavor fusion.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the tart not only adds elegance but also creates a rich flavor pairing that is simply irresistible.
Sparkling Wine: A glass of chilled sparkling wine complements the tart’s richness with effervescence, making it an excellent choice for celebrations and special occasions.
Custard Sauce: Pouring creamy custard over a slice of Bakewell tart adds warmth and an extra layer of comfort to this already heartwarming dessert.

Mary Berry’s Bakewell Tart Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe raspberries for the jam layer?
Absolutely! When selecting raspberries, look for vibrant red fruit that is plump and firm to the touch. Avoid any that are overly soft or have dark spots, as they may be overripe. The freshest berries ensure a sweet and delightful jam layer in your Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart.

What is the best way to store leftover Bakewell tart?
Very! To keep your tart fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay delicious for up to 3 days. If you plan to enjoy it later, the tart can be left uncovered at room temperature for a day, but to maintain moisture and flavor, refrigeration is key after that.

Can I freeze Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the tart completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no exposure to air. Place it in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add fresh icing if desired before serving.

What should I do if my tart browns too quickly while baking?
Don’t worry! If your tart begins to brown too quickly in the oven, simply cover it loosely with aluminum foil after about 20 minutes. This will protect the top while allowing the filling to set completely. Keep an eye on it to ensure the crust doesn’t get too dark.

Can I use alternatives for allergens in the recipe?
Very! If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, consider substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) for a vegan option. Additionally, for nut allergies, replace ground almonds with ground sunflower seeds for a similar texture without the nuts. Always check for potential allergens when serving guests to ensure everyone can enjoy your Mary Berry’s Bakewell tart!