Jam tart

A type of baked pastry filled with jam

Jam tarts with various fillings

A jam tart is a type of pastry popular in the United Kingdom and other parts of the world. It consists of a shortcrust pastry shell filled with jam, which is then baked until the pastry is golden and the jam is bubbling. Jam tarts are a simple yet delightful treat, often enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet snack.

History

The origins of the jam tart can be traced back to medieval times when fruit preserves were used to fill pastries. The simplicity of the ingredients made it a popular choice among home bakers. Over the centuries, the jam tart has remained a staple in British baking, often associated with traditional afternoon tea.

Preparation

A selection of jam tarts

To make a jam tart, one begins with a basic shortcrust pastry dough, which is rolled out and cut into rounds. These rounds are then placed into a tart tin or muffin tray to form the base. A spoonful of jam, typically strawberry, raspberry, or apricot, is added to each pastry shell. The tarts are baked in a preheated oven until the pastry is golden brown and the jam is set.

The choice of jam can vary, and some bakers like to experiment with different flavors such as blackberry, plum, or even marmalade. The key is to use a jam that is not too runny, as it needs to hold its shape during baking.

Cultural Significance

Jam tarts hold a special place in British culture, often evoking nostalgia for childhood and home baking. They are frequently mentioned in literature and nursery rhymes, such as "The Queen of Hearts" from Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.

Illustration of the Queen of Hearts from The Nursery Alice

Variations

While the classic jam tart is made with shortcrust pastry and jam, there are several variations. Some bakers add a lattice of pastry strips over the jam, creating a decorative pattern. Others might incorporate a layer of frangipane or custard beneath the jam for added richness.

In some regions, jam tarts are made with puff pastry for a lighter, flakier texture. The choice of pastry and filling can vary widely, reflecting local tastes and available ingredients.

Related pages

• Tart
• Pastry
• Jam
• Shortcrust pastry