Imagine a dessert that combines the rich, buttery crunch of caramelized walnuts nestled in a delicate tart shell, paired with a velvety homemade vanilla ice cream that melts in your mouth. These Mini Walnut Tarts are not just a recipe—they're a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary moment into a gourmet celebration. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious dessert, this recipe promises to elevate your baking game and create memories with every delectable bite.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 tarts
Ingredients
- 1 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 package mini tart shells
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sugar (for ice cream)
- 1 cup cream (for ice cream)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for ice cream)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange mini tart shells on a baking sheet.
- In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped walnuts and brown sugar, stirring continuously for 3-4 minutes until the sugar caramelizes and nuts are lightly toasted.
- Pour in heavy cream and stir until the mixture becomes a smooth, glossy walnut filling. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Spoon the walnut mixture evenly into each mini tart shell, filling them about 2/3 full.
- Bake the tarts for 12-15 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set. Remove and let cool completely.
- For the homemade ice cream, whisk together milk, sugar, cream, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl until sugar dissolves.
- Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer's instructions, typically 20-25 minutes until creamy.
- Transfer ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 2 hours to firm up.
- Serve the mini walnut tarts slightly warm with a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Toast your walnuts carefully to enhance their flavor without burning. Keep stirring constantly during the caramelization process.
- Use high-quality, fresh ingredients, especially for the homemade ice cream. The better your ingredients, the more spectacular your dessert.
- Allow the tart shells to cool completely before serving to ensure the perfect texture and prevent soggy bottoms.
- For an extra touch of elegance, garnish your tarts with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- If you don't have an ice cream maker, you can still make the ice cream by using the freeze-and-stir method, mixing the mixture every 30 minutes to prevent ice crystals.
- These tarts can be prepared in advance—the tart shells can be filled and baked a day ahead, and the ice cream can be made several days before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
