Individual Banana Cream Tarts: A Perfect Single-Serve Dessert

Delight in these Individual Banana Cream Tarts, a charming and delicious dessert that combines a buttery crust, creamy custard, and fresh banana slices. Perfect for parties, brunches, or a sweet treat for yourself, these tarts are as beautiful as they are tasty. With their elegant presentation and irresistible flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection.

Prep Time:

30 minutes

Cook Time:

20 minutes

Calories:

Approximately 320 kcal per tart

ingredients

For the Tart Shells:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 large egg yolk

  • 2-3 tbsp ice water

For the Custard Filling:

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 3 large egg yolks

  • ¼ cup cornstarch

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Topping:

  • 2-3 ripe bananas, sliced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 2 tbsp powdered sugar

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

 
 Directions——————
  1. Prepare the Tart Shells:

    • In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and cold butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

    • Add the egg yolk and 2 tbsp of ice water. Pulse until the dough comes together. If needed, add an additional 1 tbsp of water.

    • Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut it into circles to fit individual tart pans. Press the dough into the pans and trim the edges.

    • Prick the bottoms with a fork and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

  2. Make the Custard Filling:

    • In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until just simmering.

    • In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.

    • Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly.

    • Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 2-3 minutes).

    • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Let the custard cool slightly, then cover with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.

  3. Assemble the Tarts:

    • Once the tart shells and custard are cool, spoon the custard into the shells.

    • Arrange banana slices on top of the custard.

  4. Prepare the Whipped Cream Topping:

    • In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

    • Pipe or spoon the whipped cream over the banana slices.

  5. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Chill the tarts for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional banana slices or a dusting of cocoa powder if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use store-bought tart shells?

    • Yes, store-bought tart shells can be used to save time, but homemade shells offer a fresher, buttery flavor.

  2. How do I store these tarts?

    • Store the tarts in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep them covered to prevent the bananas from browning.

  3. Can I make the custard ahead of time?

    • Yes, the custard can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

  4. What can I use instead of bananas?

    • You can substitute bananas with other fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or peaches.

  5. Why did my custard turn lumpy?

    • Lumps can form if the custard is not stirred constantly while cooking. Ensure you whisk continuously and strain the custard if needed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Food processor

  • Individual tart pans

  • Rolling pin

  • Saucepan

  • Whisk

  • Mixing bowls

  • Piping bag (optional)

Tips

  • Use ripe but firm bananas for the best texture and flavor.

  • Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream for better results.

  • For a glossy custard, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before filling the tart shells.

  • Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth and flavor.

Allergy Information​

  • Contains: Dairy, eggs, gluten.

  • To make gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the tart shells.

  • To make dairy-free: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free milk and cream.

Conclusion

These Individual Banana Cream Tarts are a delightful way to enjoy a classic dessert in a personal-sized portion. With their flaky crust, creamy custard, and fresh banana topping, they’re a treat that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for sharing or savoring on your own, these tarts are sure to bring a smile to your face. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your results—we’d love to see your creations! Happy baking!

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