Peach Tart

This rustic peach tart is a celebration of summer’s sweetest stone fruit. The buttery almond crust complements the natural juiciness of fresh peaches, while the hint of honey and lemon zest adds layers of brightness and warmth. Baked to golden perfection, this tart brings a beautiful contrast of crisp edges and luscious fruit filling to your table.

Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a light dusting of powdered sugar, this tart makes a gorgeous centerpiece for any summer brunch or evening get-together. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the peaches to shine, making it a must-bake when the fruit is at its peak. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both rustic and refined, a slice of summer on every plate.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup almond meal

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

• 1–2 tablespoons cold water

For the filling:

• 3–4 ripe peaches, pitted and thinly sliced

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

• Zest of 1 lemon

Optional topping:

• Powdered sugar for dusting

• Honey drizzle or whipped cream

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. In a bowl, mix flour, almond meal, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and cut in using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add cold water 1 tablespoon at a time until dough forms. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

4. On a floured surface, roll out dough into a 10-inch circle and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

5. In a bowl, gently toss sliced peaches with sugar, honey, vanilla, cornstarch, and lemon zest.

6. Arrange peach slices over the crust, leaving a 1.5-inch border. Fold edges over the fruit, pleating gently.

7. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.

8. Cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 290 kcal per slice | Servings: 6

Rustic Summer Peach Tart with Buttery Almond Crust

A Delicious Seasonal Dessert That Celebrates the Beauty of Summer’s Stone Fruits

When the summer sun is high and peach trees are dripping with ripe, juicy fruit, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a rustic peach tart. This recipe is more than just a dessert, it’s an homage to summer’s golden days, to backyard gatherings, and to the irresistible aroma of warm fruit and buttery crust wafting from the oven. Whether you’re entertaining guests, preparing a casual weekend treat, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, this tart offers the perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication.

This rustic peach tart is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. The moment you slice into it and the aroma of sweet peaches and toasted almond crust fills the air, you’ll understand why. Each bite brings the perfect marriage of crisp, golden pastry and juicy, honey-glazed peach slices. It’s comforting yet elegant, making it suitable for both weeknight cravings and special occasions.

The Appeal of Rustic Baking

What makes rustic baking so special? Unlike highly technical desserts that require hours of precision, rustic recipes emphasize natural beauty and bold, fresh flavors. They don’t need to be perfect in appearance; they need to be perfect in taste. The folds of dough on the tart’s crust might be a little uneven, and the fruit might caramelize in unexpected ways, but that’s part of the charm. These are the kinds of bakes that feel homemade, full of heart, and connected to tradition.

Rustic baking is about using what’s in season, embracing imperfections, and letting the ingredients shine. This peach tart is a quintessential example of that philosophy. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can produce a dish that feels both effortless and unforgettable.

Why This Peach Tart Works

There are several elements that make this recipe a favorite among bakers and dessert lovers alike. First and foremost, it uses ripe summer peaches, one of the season’s most beloved fruits. When baked, peaches become even more fragrant and flavorful, their natural sugars intensifying and forming a caramelized, syrupy filling.

The tart crust is another standout feature. Unlike a traditional pie crust, this one includes almond meal for a nutty, tender bite that pairs beautifully with the fruit. It’s slightly sweetened to balance the tartness of the lemon zest and the floral sweetness of the honey. And because this is a free-form tart (also known as a galette), you don’t need a tart pan or any fancy equipment. A simple baking sheet and parchment paper will do.

The vanilla extract and lemon zest elevate the peaches without overpowering them. Vanilla adds depth and warmth, while lemon brings brightness and a subtle tang. The cornstarch ensures the filling stays cohesive and doesn’t turn runny during baking, creating perfect slices every time.

A Dessert with Versatility

One of the best things about this peach tart is its versatility. You can enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream. It makes an excellent brunch centerpiece, a casual afternoon treat, or a show-stopping dinner dessert.

Not a fan of peaches? You can substitute them with nectarines, apricots, or plums, any stone fruit will work beautifully in this recipe. You could also add a few raspberries or blueberries for a burst of color and flavor. A sprinkle of chopped almonds or pistachios before baking adds extra crunch and visual appeal.

You can make the crust ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer, making this tart even more convenient when entertaining or meal prepping. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s deceptively easy to make yet delivers maximum impact in both flavor and presentation.

Healthier Dessert Option

While indulgent, this tart offers a lighter alternative to rich pies and cream-laden cakes. It uses less butter and sugar than traditional fruit desserts and highlights the natural sweetness of the peaches. Almond meal adds protein and a dose of healthy fats, while using honey as part of the sweetener introduces a more wholesome note.

You can make this recipe even healthier by using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend, substituting coconut sugar, or using vegan butter if needed. It’s a dessert that can be adapted for different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This rustic peach tart fits seamlessly into a variety of dining occasions. Hosting a summer brunch or picnic? Slice up the tart and pack it along for a crowd-friendly treat. Planning a date night or dinner party? Serve individual wedges on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a mint sprig for a sophisticated finish.

The tart can also be part of a seasonal menu, paired with grilled meats, fresh salads, or cheese boards. Its rustic presentation and vibrant color palette make it a visual highlight on any table. It’s a dessert that feels like a celebration, of summer, of simplicity, and of good food made with care.

Serving and Storing Tips

Once baked, allow the tart to cool slightly before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for neater presentation. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to bring back the crispness of the crust or enjoy cold for a refreshing treat.

If you’re preparing this tart for a gathering, it can be baked a few hours in advance and served at room temperature. It travels well and maintains its shape, making it ideal for potlucks or picnics.

Conclusion

There’s something truly magical about this Rustic Summer Peach Tart. It brings together the essence of the season, fresh fruit, simple ingredients, and the joy of homemade baking. Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe offers the satisfaction of creating something beautiful and delicious without the stress.

With its flaky almond crust, juicy peach filling, and golden, rustic appearance, this tart is more than just a dessert, it’s an experience. It invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and share something meaningful with those you love. So, the next time peaches are in season, don’t let them go to waste, transform them into a dessert that captures summer in every slice.