Easy Coconut Cream Tarts Recipe
Introduction: If you love the sweet, creamy goodness of coconut, then these Easy Coconut Cream Tarts are a must-try! Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these mini tarts are the perfect indulgence. With a buttery, flaky crust, smooth coconut cream filling, and a touch of toasted coconut on top, every bite will transport you to tropical paradise. The best part? They’re simple to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a fantastic choice for both beginner and experienced bakers.
A Little History of Coconut Cream Desserts: Coconut cream-based desserts have been around for centuries, with roots in tropical regions where coconuts are abundant. In many Asian and Pacific Island cultures, coconut cream is a staple ingredient in desserts, from cakes to puddings. The combination of rich, silky coconut cream and a buttery crust has become a classic in Western baking as well, often taking form in pies, tarts, and cakes. Today, coconut cream desserts remain beloved in both tropical and temperate climates for their unique, satisfying flavor and creamy texture.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water (as needed)
For the coconut cream filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon coconut extract (optional, but highly recommended)
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- Pinch of salt
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (for the filling)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the topping:
- 1/2 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted)
- Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
For the crust:
- Prepare the dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and water: Stir in the egg yolk, then slowly add the ice water one tablespoon at a time. Mix until the dough just begins to come together. If needed, add a little more water, but avoid overworking the dough.
- Chill the dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Form the tart shells: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter or a glass, cut out rounds that will fit into your tart pans. Gently press the dough into the pans and trim any excess.
- Bake the crusts: Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the crusts are golden. Let them cool completely.
For the coconut cream filling:
- Combine the liquids: In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved. Stir occasionally.
- Make the cornstarch slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and 1/4 cup of cold milk. Gradually pour this mixture into the warm milk and cream mixture, whisking constantly until it thickens (about 2-3 minutes).
- Temper the eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Gradually add a small amount of the hot milk mixture to the yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs (this prevents them from scrambling). Slowly pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan while stirring.
- Cook the filling: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and starts to bubble. Remove from heat.
- Add coconut and butter: Stir in the shredded coconut, vanilla extract, coconut extract (if using), and butter. Mix well to combine. Allow the filling to cool slightly before spooning it into the cooled tart shells.
For the topping:
- Toast the coconut: In a small, dry skillet, toast the shredded coconut over medium heat, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant. Be sure to watch it closely, as coconut can burn quickly.
- Assemble the tarts: Spoon the coconut cream filling into each tart shell. Top with toasted coconut and, if desired, a dollop of whipped cream.
Methods for Success:
- Cold butter for the crust: Make sure your butter is cold when making the tart crust. This will help you achieve a flakier, more delicate crust.
- Don’t overwork the dough: The less you handle the dough, the flakier your crust will be. Mix just until it comes together.
- Tempering eggs: Always temper the eggs with a little of the hot liquid before adding them to the saucepan to avoid scrambling the eggs and ruining your filling.
Formation of the Coconut Cream Tarts: These tarts come together beautifully because of the balance between the crisp, tender crust and the rich, velvety coconut cream filling. When baked and assembled, they form small but satisfying treats that feel both indulgent and refreshing. The toasted coconut topping adds the perfect crunch and nutty flavor, complementing the smoothness of the filling.
Conclusion: These Easy Coconut Cream Tarts are sure to be a hit whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to something special. Their perfect balance of sweet, creamy coconut filling and crunchy, buttery crust is irresistible. The coconut flavor is bold but not overpowering, and the little tarts make for the perfect bite-sized dessert. Whether you’re a coconut lover or not, these tarts are guaranteed to win you over.
For Coconut Lovers: For those who are especially fond of coconut, these tarts offer the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The shredded coconut in the filling and on top provides an extra coconutty kick, and the creamy filling itself is a coconut dream. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even add a touch of coconut rum to the filling for a bit of tropical flair.
So, grab your ingredients and get ready to create some delicious coconut cream tarts that will bring smiles to everyone who tries them! 🌴🍰