Mary Berry Glazed French Peach Tart Recipe [Tips & Tricks]

If you’re looking to impress with a showstopping dessert that’s both elegant and delicious, Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart is the recipe you need to try!

With its buttery, flaky pastry, the rich and smooth almond cream filling, and perfectly ripe peaches, it’s a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. Plus, the glossy peach glaze adds that extra touch of sophistication, making it look like something you’d find in a fancy French patisserie. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something divine, this tart offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making it a must-try for anyone who loves to bake!

Mary Berry Glazed French Peach Tart Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients to ensure the tart is both flavorful and visually stunning. The ingredients are split into two categories: the tart base and the peach filling with glaze.

1. For The Tart Base

   • Pâte Sucrée (Sweet Pastry): This is a rich, buttery dough that forms the base of the tart. It’s made from plain flour, sugar, butter, and a pinch of salt. Sometimes egg yolk is used to enrich the dough. The sugar adds sweetness, while the butter ensures the pastry has a delicate, crumbly texture that complements the peaches beautifully.
   • Egg Yolk: Helps in binding the dough and contributes to a golden color when baked.
   • Vanilla Extract: A hint of vanilla elevates the flavor of the pastry, making it aromatic and subtle.

2. For The Peach Filling

   • Fresh Ripe Peaches: The star of this tart. The peaches should be ripe but firm, so they maintain their shape when sliced. The natural sweetness of the peaches is what makes this tart so irresistible.
   • Butter: For sautéing the peaches and ensuring they are tender and glistening. Butter also adds a touch of richness to the fruit.
   • Sugar: To balance out the tartness of the peaches and caramelize them slightly during cooking.

3. For The Glaze

   • Apricot Jam or Glaze: A smooth apricot jam is gently melted to create a shiny, smooth glaze that gives the tart its signature glossy finish. The sweetness of the jam also enhances the flavor of the peaches.
   • Water: To thin the apricot jam to a glaze-like consistency.

Equipment Needed

To bring this elegant tart to life, having the right tools is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the equipment you’ll need:

1. Tart Tin: A 9-inch (or 23 cm) round tart tin with a removable base is ideal. The removable base allows for easy extraction of the tart without damaging the delicate pastry or the perfect shape.

2. Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is necessary for rolling out the sweet pastry dough to an even thickness. You can opt for a traditional wooden rolling pin or a tapered one.

3. Mixing Bowls: A couple of mixing bowls are essential. One for preparing the tart dough and another for preparing the peach filling and glaze.

4. Pastry Brush: You’ll need a pastry brush to apply the apricot glaze over the peaches, giving the tart its glossy finish.

5. Knife and Paring Knife: A sharp knife for slicing the peaches thinly, ensuring that they are uniform in size for an attractive, even appearance on the tart.

6. Baking Paper and Baking Beans: These are essential for blind baking the tart shell. The paper prevents the pastry from sticking, while the beans weigh it down, ensuring it doesn’t puff up during baking.

7. Saucepan: A small saucepan is needed to gently heat the apricot jam with water to create the glaze.

8. Cooling Rack: After baking, the tart should be left to cool on a wire rack to prevent the base from becoming soggy from residual heat.

How To Make Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart

1. Prepare The Sweet Pastry (Pâte Sucrée)

   • Start by sieving the flour and salt into a bowl. Rub in the cold butter with your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
   • Stir in the sugar, then add the egg yolk and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. Gradually bring the dough together with your hands, adding a little cold water if necessary. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Blind Bake The Tart Shell

   • Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
   • Roll out the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 3mm thick. Carefully line your tart tin with the pastry, pressing it into the corners and trimming the excess.
   • Prick the base of the pastry with a fork to prevent it from rising during baking. Place a sheet of baking paper over the pastry and fill with baking beans or rice to weigh it down.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes until the pastry is lightly golden. Remove the baking paper and beans, then bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until fully crisp and golden. Let it cool.

3. Prepare The Peach Filling

   • While the pastry is cooling, peel, halve, and remove the pits from the peaches. Slice the peaches into thin, even wedges.
   • In a frying pan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the peach slices and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are tender but still hold their shape. Sprinkle a little sugar over the peaches and let them caramelize slightly before removing from heat.

4. Assemble The Tart

   • Once the pastry shell has cooled, arrange the sautéed peach slices in a circular pattern over the tart base, starting from the outer edge and working inward. Overlap them slightly to create a beautiful, fan-like design.

5. Make The Apricot Glaze

   • In a small saucepan, melt the apricot jam with a little water over low heat, stirring until smooth and glossy. Brush the melted apricot glaze over the peaches to give them a shiny, appetizing finish.

6. Finishing Touches

   • Let the tart cool completely before removing it from the tin. Once it’s out, place the tart on a serving platter, and it’s ready to serve. This tart can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Expert Tips

1. Peach Selection: Choose ripe but firm peaches for this tart. If they’re too soft, they might collapse when sautéed or become mushy when baked.

2. Pastry Tip: When making the sweet pastry dough, handle it as little as possible. Overworking the dough can result in a tough, chewy crust. If the dough feels too soft after mixing, chill it for an extra 15 minutes before rolling it out.

3. Glaze Variation: If you prefer a different glaze, you could use a homemade fruit glaze made from fruit juice and sugar. However, the apricot glaze is traditional for French-style tarts and provides a perfect balance of sweetness and shine.

4. Serving Suggestions: Serve the tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It pairs beautifully with a glass of chilled, light white wine or prosecco.

5. Storage: While the tart is best enjoyed fresh, it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. The glaze may lose its shine slightly after a day, but the flavors will still be delicious.

Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart is a masterpiece of pastry and fruit. It combines a delicate, buttery tart shell with fresh, caramelized peaches, all finished with a glossy apricot glaze that gives the tart a beautiful, inviting shine. The balance of flavors and textures-crispy pastry, juicy peaches, and a sweet, tangy glaze-make this tart a delightful treat for any occasion, from a casual family dessert to a special celebratory event.

With expert tips that ensure perfect execution and the right ingredients that complement each other harmoniously, this tart is not only a showstopper but also an achievable project for home bakers. Whether you’re making it for a summer gathering or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, this peach tart will undoubtedly impress your guests and become a beloved favorite.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart

Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart is a classic dessert that effortlessly combines the rich flavor of peaches with a buttery, flaky pastry and a delicate glaze. While the original recipe is a delight on its own, there are several easy and creative variations you can experiment with, whether you’re looking to tweak the flavors, adjust the presentation, or use different seasonal fruits. Here are a few ideas:

1. Berry Medley Twist: Instead of using just peaches, consider mixing in other summer fruits like raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries. The tartness of the berries contrasts beautifully with the sweet peaches, and the vivid colors create a stunning, multi-hued visual impact. To avoid excess moisture, ensure that the berries are drained well or lightly blotted before adding them to the tart.

2. Apricot or Plum Swap: If peaches aren’t in season or you’re craving a slightly different flavor, apricots or plums make fantastic substitutes. Their subtle sweetness and juicy flesh complement the buttery crust and the glaze perfectly. These fruits can be used just as the peaches are in the original recipe but may need slightly less sugar depending on their natural sweetness.

3. Almond Cream Filling: For a richer, more indulgent twist, you can add a layer of almond cream (frangipane) underneath the fruit. The almond flavor pairs beautifully with peaches, and the creaminess adds an extra level of luxury. Simply spread a thin layer of frangipane onto the pastry shell before adding the peaches, and bake as usual. This variation adds a nutty richness that elevates the entire tart.

4. Citrus Zest Infusion: To introduce a zesty and aromatic note to the glaze or pastry, try infusing a little lemon or orange zest into the glaze or the dough. This brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing twist that works beautifully with the sweetness of the peaches. You can even drizzle some fresh citrus juice over the top for an extra layer of freshness before glazing.

5. Honey or Maple Syrup Glaze: The glaze on Mary Berry’s tart is typically made with apricot jam or a similar fruit preserve. To change it up, swap apricot jam for honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. The honey glaze will impart a floral, slightly herbal note, while maple syrup gives the tart a warm, caramelized undertone. You could even mix these alternatives with a touch of vanilla extract for a deeper, more complex flavor.

6. Vegan or Gluten-Free Adaptation: If you’re looking to make the tart suitable for a vegan or gluten-free diet, there are simple swaps you can make. Use a gluten-free pastry base or opt for a nut-based crust, such as one made with ground almonds and coconut flour. For a vegan twist, replace butter in the dough with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative, and use a plant-based milk in the glaze.

These variations open up a world of possibilities for this beloved tart, allowing you to personalize the recipe based on your preferences or what’s in season, while still staying true to its elegant French origins.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers of Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart properly is key to maintaining its freshness, flavor, and texture. While this tart is best enjoyed fresh, if you do have some slices left over, here are some best practices to keep it in its optimal state for as long as possible:

1. Cool Completely Before Storing: Before storing any leftovers, make sure the tart has cooled completely to room temperature. Storing it while still warm can cause condensation to form, which can make the crust soggy. If you plan to store it for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent exposure to air.

2. Refrigeration: Because of the fruit topping and the glaze, it’s best to refrigerate any leftover peach tart. The cold will help preserve the delicate layers and prevent the peaches from turning too soft or becoming overly ripe. Be sure to cover the tart tightly with plastic wrap or foil, or store it in an airtight container to protect it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.

3. Avoid Freezing (If Possible): While some tarts freeze well, this particular glazed peach tart may not retain its best texture once frozen, particularly due to the delicate pastry and fruit topping. Freezing may cause the crust to become soggy and the glaze to lose its glossy appeal. If freezing is necessary (perhaps for longer storage), wrap individual slices tightly and consider freezing the tart without the glaze, adding the glaze only when you’re ready to serve it.

4. Storage Duration: When stored in the refrigerator, Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart should stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days. If you anticipate having leftovers, it’s a good idea to only glaze the portions you’re going to eat immediately and leave the rest unglazed. The glaze can be added just before serving, which ensures it remains shiny and fresh.

5. Reheating Leftovers: To refresh the tart before serving, gently warm it in the oven at a low temperature (around 160°C or 320°F) for about 10 minutes. This will help crisp up the pastry slightly and bring out the natural flavors of the fruit. Avoid microwaving the tart, as it can cause the pastry to become chewy and soggy.

What Goes Well With Glazed French Peach Tart

Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart is an elegant dessert that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a casual afternoon tea, consider these pairing ideas to elevate the experience:

1. Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a spoonful of tangy crème fraîche works wonderfully alongside the tart. The rich creaminess balances the sweetness of the peaches and glaze, while the slight tang from the crème fraîche provides a contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile.

2. Vanilla Ice Cream: For a more indulgent touch, serve the peach tart with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, velvety ice cream complements the warm, flaky crust and juicy peaches, making for an irresistible contrast in both texture and temperature. A touch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the ice cream can add a fragrant, spiced element.

3. Fresh Mint: A sprig of fresh mint or a light sprinkling of chopped mint leaves can bring a refreshing note to the dessert. The slight herbal flavor cuts through the sweetness of the peaches and adds an aromatic freshness to each bite, creating a harmonious balance between the rich tart and refreshing mint.

4. Prosecco or Champagne: If you’re enjoying this tart at a celebratory event, consider pairing it with a glass of bubbly. Prosecco or Champagne’s crisp acidity and effervescence help to cleanse the palate and complement the light, fruity flavors of the tart. A dry sparkling wine enhances the sweetness of the peaches without overwhelming the palate.

5. Herbal Teas: For a lighter and more subtle pairing, serve the tart with a delicate herbal tea, such as chamomile, jasmine, or even a mild green tea. These teas have a gentle, soothing flavor that doesn’t compete with the peach tart but instead complements its sweet and delicate nature.

6. Cheese: If you’re hosting a more sophisticated gathering or want to offer a savory contrast, consider serving the tart alongside a soft, creamy cheese like Brie or a tangy goat cheese. The richness of the cheese balances out the sweetness of the dessert while adding a unique complexity to each bite.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart is a dessert that epitomizes simplicity, elegance, and the natural beauty of fresh fruit. With its crisp, buttery pastry, sweet peaches, and delicate glaze, it has the perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether you choose to stick to the original recipe or experiment with some easy variations, this tart is sure to be a showstopper at any gathering.

By following best practices for storage, you can enjoy your tart over several days, while ensuring it retains its freshness and quality. Pairing the tart with complementary sides or beverages enhances the overall experience, making it a versatile dessert suited for any occasion. Whether you’re indulging on your own, serving it to guests, or sharing it with family, this tart is bound to bring joy and delight with each bite.

Whether you’re exploring new variations or sticking to the classic, the Glazed French Peach Tart remains a timeless treat that will undoubtedly continue to impress.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart?

The key ingredients for Mary Berry’s glazed French peach tart include shortcrust pastry, fresh peaches, apricot jam, butter, sugar, and a lemon. You’ll also need eggs, vanilla extract, and ground almonds for the filling.

Can I Use Store-bought Pastry For The Tart?

Yes, you can use store-bought shortcrust pastry if you’re short on time. However, making your own pastry from scratch will give you a more authentic, buttery flavor.

How Do I Prepare The Peaches For The Tart?

For the peaches, start by blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer them to ice water. This will make it easier to peel the skin off. Once peeled, cut them in half, remove the pit, and slice them thinly for the tart.

What Is The Purpose Of Glazing The Peach Tart With Apricot Jam?

The apricot glaze gives the tart a beautiful shiny finish and adds a touch of sweetness. It also helps to preserve the freshness of the peaches by creating a protective coating.

Can I Substitute Apricot Jam With Another Type Of Jam?

While apricot jam is traditionally used for its mild, sweet flavor, you can substitute it with other fruit jams like peach or raspberry if you prefer. Keep in mind, the flavor profile may change slightly.

What Is The Best Way To Bake The Tart For A Golden Crust?

To achieve a golden crust, make sure to bake the tart in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown. You can also brush the pastry with a little beaten egg before baking to enhance the golden color.

Can I Make The Tart In Advance?

Yes, the tart can be made in advance. You can bake the pastry shell and prepare the filling a day before. Keep the tart refrigerated and add the peach slices and apricot glaze just before serving for the freshest taste.

How Should I Store The Glazed Peach Tart?

Store the glazed peach tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2-3 days. Avoid covering it tightly while still warm to prevent condensation from affecting the crust.

What Can I Serve With Mary Berry’s Glazed French Peach Tart?

Mary Berry’s glazed French peach tart pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also serve it with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.

What Variations Can I Try With This Peach Tart Recipe?

You can experiment by adding a layer of frangipane (almond cream) under the peaches for a richer filling. For a twist, try using different fruits like plums, nectarines, or apricots instead of peaches.