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Best Cranberry Tart Recipe

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3.9 from 80 reviews

This Best Cranberry Tart combines a tangy cranberry filling spiced with cinnamon and orange zest, layered with warm, spiced pears atop a buttery, cinnamon-infused tart crust. Perfect for autumn and winter gatherings, this tart balances sweetness and spice with a flaky, rich pastry base.

Ingredients

Cranberry Filling

  • 12 oz fresh cranberries
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp orange zest
  • 6 tbsp granulated sugar

Spiced Pears

  • 1/4 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 scant tsp flour
  • 2 small pears (Bartlett preferred)
  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

Tart Crust

  • 1 tbsp iced water
  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter (preferably Kerrygold)
  • 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tart Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cut in the chilled unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add vanilla extract and iced water gradually, mixing just until dough forms. Wrap the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Make the Cranberry Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and orange zest. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Prepare the Spiced Pears: Peel, core, and thinly slice the pears. Toss pear slices with ground ginger, cinnamon, and the scant teaspoon of flour to coat evenly. Set aside.
  4. Assemble the Tart: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Transfer the dough into the pan and trim the edges. First spread the cooled cranberry filling evenly over the crust, then arrange the spiced pear slices decoratively on top.
  5. Bake: Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the fruit topping is bubbling gently. If the edges brown too quickly, cover the crust edge with foil.
  6. Cool and Serve: Allow the tart to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing to let the filling set. Serve as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • Use fresh cranberries for the best tartness and texture.
  • Bartlett pears are preferred for their sweet, juicy flavor but any ripe pear can substitute.
  • Chilling the dough before baking ensures a flaky crust.
  • Optional: sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
  • This tart is excellent served warm or at room temperature.