Frequently Asked Questions
What are Delicate Apricot Frangipane Tartlets?
These are charming mini desserts featuring a buttery crust, a rich almond frangipane filling, and fresh apricot slices topped with a glossy glaze.
What are the main components of the frangipane filling?
The frangipane filling is made from sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, almond extract, finely ground almonds, and lemon zest.
How long should the tartlet dough be chilled?
The dough should be covered with plastic wrap and chilled in the refrigerator for approximately 1 hour before shaping.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking?
Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for baking these apricot tartlets.
Can I use a large tart tin instead of mini muffin pans?
Yes, the recipe allows for the dough to be pressed into either greased miniature muffin pans or one large tart tin.
How do I prepare the apricot glaze?
Mix 6 tablespoons of apricot jam with 2-3 teaspoons of water until it reaches a brushable consistency.
How many apricots do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 to 10 fresh apricots, which should be washed, pitted, and sliced into thin wedges.
What is the texture of the tartlet dough?
The dough will be slightly sticky after mixing the flour and ground almonds into the butter and sugar base.
How long do the tartlets need to bake?
Bake the tartlets for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the tops reach a light golden brown color.
What are the serving suggestions for these tartlets?
They are best served warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of crรจme fraรฎche or sour cream and an edible flower.
How do I shape the crust for the mini muffin pans?
Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and press each ball into the bottom and sides of the greased pans.
Does the filling contain lemon zest?
Yes, the recipe includes 1 teaspoon of finely minced fresh lemon zest in the frangipane filling for added flavor.
What kind of almonds are used in the crust?
The crust requires 1/4 cup of finely ground almonds.
What type of butter is used for the crust?
The crust uses 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter.
Should the apricots be peeled?
The instructions specify washing, pitting, and slicing, but do not require peeling the apricots.
How much sugar is in the frangipane filling?
The filling contains 3/4 cup of sugar, separate from the 1/2 cup used in the crust.
What is the final garnish for the tartlets?
The tartlets are finished with a dusting of icing sugar once they have cooled slightly.
Can I use an electric mixer for the dough?
Yes, an electric mixer is recommended for beating the butter and sugar and incorporating the eggs and flour.
Is almond extract used in this recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract is included in the filling to enhance the nutty flavor.
How do I arrange the apricots on the tarts?
Arrange the thin apricot wedges elegantly over the frangipane filling before applying the glaze.
How many eggs are used in total for this recipe?
The recipe uses 3 eggs in total: 1 for the crust and 2 for the filling.
Is there dairy in the filling?
Yes, the filling contains both 4 tablespoons of melted butter and 6 tablespoons of heavy cream.
Can these tartlets be served at tea time?
Absolutely, they are described as a delightful treat for tea time, festive gatherings, or as a dinner dessert.
What is the purpose of the apricot jam?
The apricot jam is used to create a glossy glaze that is brushed over the fruit before baking.
How much flour is needed for the crust?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour for the dough.
Can I use vanilla extract in the filling?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in the frangipane mixture.
Should the tartlet pans be greased?
Yes, the muffin pans or tart tin should be greased before pressing in the dough balls.
Is the filling whisked or beaten with a mixer?
The filling ingredients should be whisked together in a medium bowl until well combined and smooth.
When should the icing sugar be applied?
The icing sugar should be dusted over the tops after the tartlets have been removed from the oven and cooled slightly.
What makes these tartlets frangipane?
They are considered frangipane tartlets because they feature a traditional almond-based pastry cream filling.