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Rustic Pear Hazelnut Tartlets are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of ripe pears with the rich, nutty flavor of hazelnuts, all encased in a flaky pastry shell. Perfect for any occasion, these tartlets are not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply indulging in a sweet snack, these tartlets are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Follow this simple recipe to create your own batch of Rustic Pear Hazelnut Tartlets that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
- 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup hazelnuts, toasted and chopped
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your tartlets will bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown color.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Cut the pastry into circles, about 4 inches in diameter, to fit into your tartlet pans.
- Line the Tartlet Pans: Gently press the pastry circles into the tartlet pans, making sure to cover the bottom and sides. Trim any excess pastry hanging over the edges.
- Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced pears, chopped hazelnuts, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss until the pears are well coated with the mixture.
- Fill the Tartlets: Spoon the pear and hazelnut mixture evenly into each prepared tartlet shell, distributing it well.
- Apply the Egg Wash: Brush the edges of the pastry with the beaten egg to give the tartlets a beautiful golden finish when baked.
- Bake: Place the tartlets in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the tartlets from the oven and let them cool slightly in the pans. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute hazelnuts with other nuts such as walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftover tartlets?
Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving for the best texture.
Can I make the pastry from scratch?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade pastry, you can use a basic pie crust recipe or a shortcrust pastry to create your tartlet shells.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
You can add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra flavor, or incorporate a layer of chocolate or caramel in the bottom of the tartlet shells for a decadent twist.
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