Firstly, gather all the necessary ingredients. For the tartlet shell, you will need one and a half cups of all-purpose flour, half a cup of unsalted butter (cold and diced), a pinch of salt, one large egg, and two tablespoons of cold water. As for the filling, you can choose from a variety of options, such as fruit compote, chocolate ganache, lemon curd, or pastry cream. The choice is yours.
To make the tartlet shell, start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add the cold diced butter and, using your fingertips, rub it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step is crucial in achieving a flaky and buttery tartlet crust. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can result in a tough and chewy texture.
Once the butter is evenly distributed, create a well in the center of the mixture. In a separate bowl, beat the egg and cold water together, then pour it into the well. Using a fork or your hands, gently mix the wet and dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more cold water, one tablespoon at a time. Conversely, if it is too wet, sprinkle in a little flour.
Next, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it into a smooth ball. Wrap the ball in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and the fat to solidify, resulting in a more tender crust.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) while the dough is resting. Once chilled, unwrap the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of approximately ⅛ to ¼ inch. Carefully cut out circles or squares, slightly larger than your tartlet molds. Gently press the dough into each mold, ensuring it fits snugly against the sides and bottom.
Now it’s time to blind bake the tartlet shells. To do this, line each shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights, dry beans, or rice. This step prevents the dough from puffing up during baking. Place the tartlet molds on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Remove the weights and parchment paper, and bake for an additional 5 minutes to ensure the bottom is fully cooked.
Once baked, allow the tartlet shells to cool completely before removing them from the molds. You can now fill the tartlet baskets with your desired filling. Whether it’s a burst of fruity sweetness or a rich and creamy chocolate delight, let your creativity shine. Top them off with fresh fruit, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream to add that final touch.
Making tartlet baskets may seem intimidating, but with a little patience and practice, you’ll be able to create stunning and delicious treats that will leave your guests in awe. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let your culinary skills shine as you whip up these delightful tartlet baskets. Enjoy!