Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Decadent Stilton and Pear Savory Tart?
It is an exquisite savory tart featuring a buttery crust filled with crumbled Stilton cheese and sweet, juicy pears, set in an egg and half-and-half custard.
How many servings does this tart provide?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
What are the primary ingredients for the crust?
The crust is made using 8 ounces of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 4 ounces of softened butter.
What temperature should the oven be for the initial preheating?
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) for the first stage of baking.
How do I achieve the correct texture for the tart crust?
Work the softened butter into the flour and salt mixture using your fingers until a crumbly texture is achieved.
What size tart pan is recommended?
You should use an 8-inch or 9-inch tart pan, preferably with a removable bottom.
Why should I prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork?
Pricking the bottom of the pastry helps prevent it from bubbling during the blind baking process.
How long should the crust be blind baked?
The crust should be blind baked for 5 minutes before adding the fillings.
What should I do after blind baking the crust?
Remove the crust from the oven, let it cool slightly, and lower the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C).
How much Stilton cheese is required?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of Stilton cheese, crumbled into small pieces.
Can I use a specific variation of Stilton cheese?
Yes, Trader Joe's offers a Stilton cheese with cranberries that adds a unique and delicious twist to the recipe.
How should the pear be prepared for the tart?
One medium pear should be peeled, cored, and sliced thinly.
How should I arrange the pear slices?
Arrange the pear slices in a beautiful spoke pattern over the crumbled Stilton cheese.
What is the custard mixture made of?
The custard is made by beating 3 to 4 large eggs and gradually stirring in 1 cup of warmed half-and-half.
Why is it recommended to use warmed half-and-half?
Warmed half-and-half allows for better mixing with the beaten eggs.
How much custard should I pour into the tart?
Pour the egg and half-and-half mixture over the pears and cheese until the tart pan is nearly full.
How long does the tart need to bake once assembled?
Bake the assembled tart for 30 to 40 minutes at 350°F (177°C).
How can I tell when the tart is finished baking?
The tart is done when the filling is set and the top is lightly golden.
Should the tart be served hot?
The tart can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making it very versatile.
How long should I wait before slicing the tart?
Allow the tart to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
What are the nutritional facts for one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, 25g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein.
Is this recipe suitable for lunch or brunch?
Yes, it is an ideal option for brunch, lunch, picnics, or even casual dinners.
What type of cuisine does this tart belong to?
This recipe is categorized as British cuisine.
What is a good side dish for this tart?
It pairs perfectly with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the rich flavors of the cheese.
Does the recipe require any special flour?
Standard all-purpose flour is used for the pastry.
Can I make this tart for a picnic?
Yes, because it tastes great at room temperature, it is a fantastic option for picnics.
How many ingredients are needed in total?
There are 7 total ingredients: flour, salt, butter, Stilton, pear, eggs, and half-and-half.
Can I use smaller eggs for this recipe?
The recipe suggests 3 to 4 large eggs; if using smaller eggs, you may want to use 4 to ensure the pan is full.
Is the preparation time long?
The recipe is categorized under '< 60 Mins', making it a relatively quick option for an elegant dish.
What should I do if my butter is cold?
The recipe requires softened butter for the crust; let it sit at room temperature before starting your preparation.