In today’s world of trendy ingredients and elaborate cooking techniques, it’s easy to overlook the simplicity and charm of old-fashioned recipes. One such treasure is Grandma’s sweet tart recipe – a delightful treat that is both nostalgic and delicious. What makes this recipe truly special is that it achieves its mouthwatering taste without the use of butter. So, let’s take a step back in time and discover the wonders of Grandma’s old-fashioned sweet tart recipe.
Before we dive into the recipe itself, it’s worth exploring why omitting butter makes this dessert even more appealing. While butter is commonly used in many baking recipes, it’s important to remember that not everyone can enjoy its richness. Whether due to dietary restrictions or personal preference, finding a recipe without butter can be challenging. That’s where Grandma’s sweet tart recipe comes to the rescue!
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful old-fashioned sweet tart:
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup of cold water
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
– 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Your favorite jam or fruit preserves
To begin, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cornstarch, and salt. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Then, add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract to the dry mixture, and stir until a crumbly dough forms.
Next, gradually add the cold water to the dough, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can lead to a tough crust. Once the dough has formed, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This will help firm up the dough and make it easier to work with.
After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal portions. Take one part and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Gently transfer the rolled-out dough to a tart pan and press it firmly against the bottom and sides. Repeat the process with the remaining dough.
Now comes the fun part – filling the tarts with your favorite jam or fruit preserves! Spread a generous amount of your chosen filling onto the prepared tart shells. Make sure to leave a small border around the edges to prevent any spillage during baking.
Once the tarts are filled, place them in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.
Once the tarts have cooled, you can dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Slice them into wedges and savor each bite of this delightful old-fashioned treat.
Grandma’s sweet tart recipe without butter is a testament to the simplicity and ingenuity of classic baking. The absence of butter doesn’t compromise the taste or texture of these tarts; instead, it allows the flavors of the jam or fruit preserves to shine through. So, the next time you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic, turn to Grandma’s old-fashioned sweet tart recipe and transport yourself to a simpler time.