Introduction to Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart

Welcome to my kitchen, where I love to whip up delightful dishes that bring joy to my family and friends! Today, I’m excited to share my Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart. This recipe is a true gem, perfect for busy days when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tangy cranberries and creamy goat cheese creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this tart is sure to steal the show and warm your heart!

Why You’ll Love This Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart

This Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals like us. It’s quick to prepare, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The flavors are a delightful balance of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as an appetizer or a light dessert. You’ll love how it impresses without the stress!

Ingredients for Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your tart crust, providing structure and a lovely texture.
Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the cranberries and richness of the cheese.
Cold unsalted butter: Using cold butter is key for a flaky crust. It creates those delightful layers we all love.
Ice water: This helps bring the dough together without melting the butter, keeping it nice and flaky.
Fresh cranberries: The star of the show! Their tartness pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to the cranberries, balancing their natural tartness.
Olive oil: A drizzle helps roast the cranberries, enhancing their flavor and giving them a lovely sheen.
Fresh thyme leaves: These aromatic herbs add a wonderful depth of flavor, making the tart feel gourmet.
Soft goat cheese: Creamy and tangy, it’s the perfect partner for the roasted cranberries.
Heavy cream: This adds richness to the cheese mixture, making it smooth and luscious.
Large eggs: They help bind the filling together, giving it a lovely custard-like texture.
Black pepper: A hint of spice that complements the sweetness and creaminess beautifully.
Zest of an orange: This brightens the flavors, adding a refreshing citrus note that elevates the tart.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with substitutions! For instance, if cranberries aren’t your thing, consider using other fruits like blueberries or pears. The possibilities are endless!

How to Make Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Let’s start with the crust, the foundation of our Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart. In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour and salt. Pulse it together until well mixed. Next, add the cold, cubed butter. Pulse again until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, like sandy beach pebbles. This is where the magic happens! Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. It should feel slightly tacky but not sticky. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and let it rest in the fridge. Trust me, this step is crucial for a flaky crust!

Step 2: Chill the Dough

Chilling the dough is essential. It allows the gluten to relax, ensuring a tender crust. Wrap the disk tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This little wait will pay off with a perfectly flaky tart!

Step 3: Preheat and Roll Out

While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures a nice, even bake. Once the dough is ready, lightly flour your work surface. Roll out the chilled dough into a circle, about 12 inches in diameter. It should be about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch tart pan, pressing it gently into the edges. Trim any excess dough hanging over the sides. This step is where you can show off your skills, so take your time and make it look beautiful!

Step 4: Roast the Cranberries

Now, let’s bring those cranberries to life! In a mixing bowl, toss the fresh cranberries with honey, olive oil, and fresh thyme leaves. This combination will enhance their natural tartness. Spread the cranberries evenly on a baking sheet and roast them in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they start to soften and burst, releasing their sweet-tart juices. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 5: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

While the cranberries roast, it’s time to whip up the creamy filling. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soft goat cheese, heavy cream, and eggs until smooth. The mixture should be creamy and luscious, like a dreamy cloud. Add a pinch of black pepper and the zest of an orange for that extra zing. This cheese mixture is the heart of the tart, so make sure it’s well combined and free of lumps. You’ll want every bite to be rich and flavorful!

Step 6: Assemble the Tart

Now comes the fun part—assembling the tart! Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly into the prepared crust. Make sure it’s nice and smooth. Then, gently top it with the roasted cranberries, distributing them evenly across the surface. The vibrant colors will make your tart look stunning! This is where the sweet and savory magic begins to happen, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors.

Step 7: Bake the Tart

It’s time to bake! Place the assembled tart in the oven and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the filling to be set and the edges to turn a lovely golden brown. When it’s done, the tart will have a slight jiggle in the center, but it will firm up as it cools. The anticipation will be worth it, I promise!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. This cooling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and watch your family and friends delight in every bite. Pair it with a light salad or a glass of white wine for a perfect meal!

Tips for Success

Use cold ingredients for the crust to ensure flakiness.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s crucial for a tender crust.
Feel free to experiment with herbs; rosemary or sage can add a unique twist.
For a sweeter tart, increase the honey in the cranberry mixture.
Let the tart cool completely for easier slicing.

Equipment Needed

Food processor: Essential for mixing the crust. A mixing bowl and pastry cutter work too.
Tart pan: A 9-inch tart pan is ideal. You can use a pie dish if needed.
Baking sheet: For roasting cranberries. A regular oven-safe dish will do.
Mixing bowls: Handy for combining ingredients. Any size will work!
Whisk: Perfect for blending the cheese mixture. A fork can substitute in a pinch.

Variations

Fruit Swap: Try using blueberries, raspberries, or sliced pears instead of cranberries for a different flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil to add a unique twist to the tart.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the cheese mixture for a delightful crunch.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make the crust gluten-free.
Vegan Version: Use a plant-based cream cheese and flax eggs to create a vegan-friendly tart.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the tart with a light arugula salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside a glass of crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to enhance the flavors.
Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an elegant touch.
Offer a dollop of crème fraîche or Greek yogurt on the side for added creaminess.
Slice into wedges and arrange on a beautiful platter for a stunning presentation.

FAQs about Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart

Can I make the Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart ahead of time?

Absolutely! This tart can be made a day in advance. Just bake it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat it gently before serving for the best flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for goat cheese?

If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, you can use cream cheese or ricotta as a substitute. Both will provide a creamy texture, though the flavor will differ slightly.

Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries! Just toss them in the honey and olive oil without thawing. They may need a few extra minutes in the oven to roast properly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to enjoy it warm again!

What drinks pair well with this tart?

This Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light sparkling cider for a non-alcoholic option. Enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart is more than just cooking; it’s about crafting a moment of joy. The vibrant colors and delightful aromas fill your kitchen, making it a warm and inviting space. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory, bringing smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this tart is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards of your culinary adventure!

Roasted Cranberry and Goat Cheese Tart: A Delightful Recipe!

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Author: Samantha
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful tart featuring roasted cranberries and creamy goat cheese, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
3–4 tablespoons ice water
2 cups fresh cranberries
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
8 oz soft goat cheese
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 large eggs
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Zest of 1 orange

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Instructions

Prepare the crust by mixing flour and salt in a food processor. Pulse in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water until dough comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll out chilled dough and press into a 9-inch tart pan.
Toss cranberries with honey, olive oil, and thyme. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes until slightly softened.
Whisk goat cheese, cream, eggs, pepper, and orange zest until smooth.
Spread cheese mixture into tart crust. Top with roasted cranberries.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until filling is set and edges are golden brown.
Cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve warm or at room temperature.
Can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.
Substitute cranberries with other fruits if desired.

Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 200mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 80mg