I remember the first time I tried a frangipane tart. I was at a small café in London. The crust was golden, the almond filling creamy and slightly sweet, and the aroma filled the air before I even took a bite. I instantly fell in love. Since then, I’ve tried many versions, but Jamie Oliver’s recipe has a special place on my kitchen counter. It’s approachable, yet sophisticated, and it teaches you more than just how to bake a tart-it shows you how ingredients can sing together.
This guide will take you through the recipe step by step. We’ll explore the ingredients, the science behind them, expert tips, and some exciting variations you can try at home. By the end, you’ll not just follow the recipe-you’ll understand it.
Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s frangipane tart is deceptively simple. On the surface, it’s just a crisp pastry filled with a rich almond cream and topped with fruit. But each element is carefully crafted. The buttery crust melts in your mouth. The frangipane filling is smooth and nutty. And when baked, the tart develops a golden top with a soft, luxurious center.
This recipe is perfect for dinner parties, weekend baking sessions, or anytime you want a dessert that feels impressive without being intimidating.
Ingredients Needed
I still remember going to the market to pick fresh ingredients for this tart. It felt like preparing for a small adventure. You don’t need fancy items, just fresh, quality ingredients:
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For The Pastry
- 250g plain flour
- 125g cold unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
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For The Frangipane Filling
- 125g unsalted butter, softened
- 125g caster sugar
- 2 eggs
- 125g ground almonds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
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Optional Topping
- Sliced fruits like pears, plums, or berries
- Icing sugar for dusting
The ingredients feel simple, but they work in harmony to create something truly special.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart
I still recall the first time I rolled out the pastry. The dough was delicate, slightly sticky, but so rewarding when it came together. Here’s how to do it:
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Make The Pastry
- Combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Rub together until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add egg and mix until it forms a dough.
- Chill for 30 minutes.
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Prepare The Filling
- Beat butter and sugar until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Fold in almonds, vanilla, and lemon zest.
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Assemble The Tart
- Roll out pastry and line a tart tin. Trim the edges.
- Spread frangipane filling evenly.
- Arrange fruit slices on top if desired.
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Bake
- Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
- Cool slightly before serving.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
I love exploring why things work in baking. Jamie’s frangipane tart is a perfect example:
- Butter: Gives flakiness to the pastry and creaminess to the filling.
- Almonds: Contain oils that create a soft texture and nutty flavor.
- Eggs: Act as binders and help the tart rise slightly.
- Sugar: Caramelizes in the oven, giving a golden color and subtle sweetness.
Understanding this helps you tweak the recipe without fear. For instance, you can swap almond flour for hazelnut flour for a different nutty flavor.
Expert Tips
I remember the first time I overbaked a frangipane tart. Lesson learned. Here’s what I’ve gathered:
- Chill your pastry well to prevent shrinking.
- Beat butter and sugar until pale for a light filling.
- Don’t overmix once you add eggs to avoid a dense tart.
- Keep an eye on the fruit topping-it can brown faster than the filling.
Recipe Variations
I love experimenting with flavors. Jamie’s tart is versatile:
- Fruit Swaps: Apples, figs, or mixed berries.
- Nut Variations: Replace almonds with hazelnuts or pistachios.
- Chocolate Twist: Add a layer of chocolate ganache beneath the frangipane.
- Spices: Cinnamon or cardamom pairs beautifully with almond filling.
These variations let you make the tart seasonal or match it to your mood.
Final Words
I remember serving this tart to friends and watching their faces light up with the first bite. It’s more than a dessert. It’s a conversation starter, a piece of art, and a testament to what simple, quality ingredients can do.
Baking Jamie Oliver’s frangipane tart is not just about following steps-it’s about understanding flavors, textures, and the joy of sharing food.
FAQs
What Is Frangipane?
Frangipane is a rich almond-flavored filling, often used in tarts and pastries. It’s made with butter, sugar, eggs, and ground almonds.
Can I Make The Frangipane Filling Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the frangipane filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
What Fruit Can I Use In Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart?
Jamie Oliver’s recipe suggests using pears, but you can also try apples or berries depending on your preference.