Manchester tart

A traditional English baked tart

Manchester Tart

A traditional Manchester tart

The Manchester tart is a traditional English baked tart that consists of a shortcrust pastry shell, spread with raspberry jam, covered with a custard filling, and topped with desiccated coconut. It is a variation of the older Manchester pudding, which was first recorded by Mrs Beeton in her 1861 book Mrs Beeton's Book of Household Management.

History

The Manchester tart is believed to have originated in the city of Manchester, England. It became a popular dessert in the mid-20th century, particularly in school dinners across the region. The tart is a simple yet delicious dessert that reflects the culinary traditions of the area.

Ingredients and Preparation

The main ingredients of a Manchester tart include:

• Shortcrust pastry
• Raspberry jam
• Custard
• Desiccated coconut

Preparation

The preparation of a Manchester tart involves several steps:

1. Pastry Base: The shortcrust pastry is rolled out and used to line a tart tin. It is then baked blind to ensure a crisp base.
2. Jam Layer: Once the pastry is cooled, a layer of raspberry jam is spread over the base.
3. Custard Filling: A thick custard is prepared, often using cornflour to thicken, and poured over the jam layer.
4. Topping: The tart is finished with a generous sprinkling of desiccated coconut.

Variations

While the traditional Manchester tart is made with raspberry jam and coconut, variations exist that include sliced bananas or a layer of chocolate.

Cultural Significance

The Manchester tart holds a nostalgic place in the hearts of many who grew up in the North of England. It is often associated with school dinners and family gatherings. The tart is a symbol of the simple yet satisfying desserts that were common in British households.

Related pages

• Custard tart
• Bakewell tart
• Jam tart
• List of pies, tarts and flans