There’s something truly delightful about the aroma of freshly baked pineapple tarts filling the kitchen. The moment you slice into the golden pastry, you’re met with a sweet pineapple jam that dances on your taste buds, transporting you to sun-kissed shores with every bite. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering when a relative brought a batch that disappeared almost instantly. Inspired by its unexpected burst of flavor and flaky texture, I knew I had to recreate this masterpiece.
Perfect for a weekend treat or as a show-stopping dessert for gatherings, these pineapple tarts require just a few simple ingredients and, surprisingly, can be made without any fancy kitchen gadgets. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting on your baking journey, making these treats will not only impress your family and friends but also fill your home with a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Are you ready to make your own delicious pineapple tarts? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why are Pineapple Tarts a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: The moment you take these out of the oven, your kitchen fills with a sweet, inviting scent that’s hard to resist.
Simple ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a gourmet treat that looks and tastes like a bakery masterpiece.
Delightful taste: The sweet and tangy pineapple jam perfectly complements the flaky, buttery pastry, creating a burst of flavor that’s simply unforgettable.
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together, these pineapple tarts will surely be the star of the dessert table, delighting guests of all ages.
If you’re looking for more inspirations, check out our easy pastry dough recipes to elevate your baking skills!
Pineapple Tarts Ingredients
• Get ready to create your own delicious pineapple tarts!
For the Pastry
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your crispy and flaky pastry.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch – Helps to achieve that light and tender texture; don’t skip it!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 4 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough, making it extra special.
- 2 sticks unsalted butter – Provides richness and flavor; make sure it’s cold for the best results.
- 2 egg yolks – Adds richness to the pastry; use fresh ones for the best flavor.
For the Egg Wash
- 1 egg yolk – Lightly beaten for a beautiful golden glaze on your tarts.
- 1/2 tablespoon condensed milk – Mix with the egg yolk for a sweeter and shinier finish.
For the Filling
- 30 oz (850g) sliced pineapples – The star of the show; use ripe pineapple for the best flavor!
- 10 tablespoons sugar – Adjust this based on the sweetness of your pineapples; it enhances the jammy goodness.
- 1 teaspoon cloves (optional) – Adds a warm spice note that complements the pineapple beautifully.
Now that you have all the exciting ingredients, it’s time to bring the magic of these pineapple tarts to life!
How to Make Pineapple Tarts
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Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and confectioners’ sugar in a large mixing bowl until well combined. This will create a fantastic base for your flaky pastry!
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Cut in the unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, with small butter bits visible. This will ensure a rich, flaky texture in your pastry.
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Combine the egg yolks into the dry mixture and gently form the dough. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this keeps it tender for baking.
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Chill the dough by wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating for 30 minutes. This helps the butter to firm up, resulting in a flaky pastry once baked.
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Prepare your pineapple jam by cooking the sliced pineapples with sugar and cloves in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
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Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, making sure it fits your pastry needs. The dough should be smooth and slightly elastic.
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Fill each pastry with a generous spoonful of the pineapple jam. Make sure not to overfill, or they might leak during baking!
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Brush the edges of your pastry with the egg wash mixture of beaten egg yolk and condensed milk. This will provide a beautiful golden finish when baked.
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Bake the pastries according to your oven’s instructions until they are golden brown, typically around 20-25 minutes at 350°F, depending on your oven.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pineapple Tarts?
Creating a delightful meal is all about harmonious pairings that complement and enhance your culinary masterpiece.
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Coconut Ice Cream: The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the flaky tarts, bringing a tropical twist that mirrors the pineapple filling.
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Minted Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of mixed fruits brightens up the flavors, making each bite feel vibrant and lively. A touch of mint elevates the dish further, adding freshness.
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Lemonade: A zesty lemonade balances the sweetness of the tarts with its bright, refreshing flavor, providing a perfect thirst-quenching complement.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as the ideal warm contrast, allowing the tarts’ flavors to shine through while introducing comforting aromas.
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Cheesecake Mousse: Consider a light cheesecake mousse drizzled with a passion fruit sauce; its tangy richness pairs exceptionally well with the sweet pineapple delight.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti make for a lovely texture contrast, perfect for dipping alongside your sweet treats, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Elevate your sweet experience with these tasty suggestions that make any gathering feel special!
Tips for the Best Pineapple Tarts
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Chill the Dough: Always refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the butter solidifies, creating the perfect flaky texture.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the dough ingredients, mix just until combined. Overworking it can lead to tough pastries instead of light and flaky pineapple tarts.
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Taste Your Filling: Adjust the sugar level in the pineapple jam to taste. Depending on the ripeness of your pineapples, you might want more or less sugar for the perfect balance.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your tarts as they bake; ovens can vary. Remove them once they’re golden brown to avoid over-baking.
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Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your pineapple filling for an extra layer of flavor. It can truly bring your pineapple tarts to life!
Pineapple Tarts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make these pineapple tarts your own with a few delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these tarts suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. Just ensure it’s a blend designed for baking!
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Vegan: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil or dairy-free butter and use flaxseed eggs instead of yolks for a completely vegan-friendly version.
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Spiced Up: Experiment with spices! Add a dash of nutmeg or ginger to the filling for an extra zing. The warmth of spices will take your tarts to new flavor heights.
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Coconut Cream: For a tropical twist, mix in shredded coconut into the pineapple filling. It adds texture and an extra layer of flavor, giving you a gorgeous island escape!
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Citrus Zest: Brighten the flavors with a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest in the filling. It adds a refreshing, zesty note that beautifully complements the sweet pineapple.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate finely chopped nuts like almonds or pecans into the pastry for a delightful crunch. The nuttiness pairs wonderfully with the sweet filling.
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Mini Tarts: Instead of larger tarts, make mini versions! Use a muffin tin to bake bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties or gatherings.
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Chili Kick: For the adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the pineapple jam. The subtle heat creates an unexpected yet exciting flavor balance.
Let your imagination run wild and enjoy creating personalized versions of these delightful pineapple tarts!
Make Ahead Options
These Pineapple Tarts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal prep! You can prepare the pastry dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps and chilling it for that crucial 30 minutes to maintain its flaky texture. Additionally, the pineapple jam can be made up to 3 days ahead; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve its delicious flavor. When you’re ready to indulge, roll out the chilled dough, fill each tart with the jam, brush with egg wash, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade desserts ready with minimal effort, making your baking experience just as delightful as the treats themselves!
Storage Tips for Pineapple Tarts
Room Temperature: Store your pineapple tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you need to store them for longer, place the tarts in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to 5 days. Make sure to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unbaked tarts. Place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: To reheat leftover tarts, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Enjoy your pineapple tarts fresh out of the oven!
Pineapple Tarts Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my pineapples are ripe?
Absolutely! When selecting pineapples, look for a fruit with a golden-yellow color, especially at the base. The leaves should be green and fresh-looking. A ripe pineapple will have a sweet, tropical scent near the base and give slightly when pressed. Avoid pineapples with dark spots or overly soft areas, as these could indicate overripeness.
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What’s the best way to store pineapple tarts?
To keep your pineapple tarts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days—just be sure to wrap them well to prevent any drying out.
Can I freeze pineapple tarts?
Very! For freezing, I recommend freezing the unbaked pineapple tarts. Place them on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. These can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop them directly from the freezer into a preheated oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
What if my pastry dough is too crumbly?
If your dough feels crumbly and isn’t coming together well, don’t worry! You can add a small splash of cold water or an additional egg yolk, one at a time, while gently mixing until it forms a cohesive dough. Just be cautious not to overwork it, as that can make the pockets of butter melt, leading to tougher tarts.
Are pineapple tarts suitable for my gluten-free friends?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make gluten-free pineapple tarts, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s also a great idea to check your other ingredients, like the confectioners’ sugar and cornstarch, to ensure they’re gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delicious treats!
Irresistible Pineapple Tarts for a Homemade Sweet Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and confectioners’ sugar in a large mixing bowl until well combined.
- Cut in the unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine the egg yolks into the dry mixture and gently form the dough.
- Chill the dough by wrapping it in plastic wrap and refrigerating for 30 minutes.
- Prepare your pineapple jam by cooking the sliced pineapples with sugar and cloves in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness.
- Fill each pastry with a generous spoonful of the pineapple jam.
- Brush the edges of your pastry with the egg wash mixture.
- Bake the pastries according to your oven's instructions until they are golden brown.
