Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

There’s something about a Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream that instantly feels elegant and special, yet surprisingly approachable. Picture this: a buttery, crisp tart crust, silky-smooth mascarpone cream infused with fragrant vanilla, and a rainbow of fresh, juicy fruit arranged beautifully on top. It’s like a work of art that you can eat—and trust me, every bite tastes as incredible as it looks.

This tart is perfect for brunch, a celebratory dessert, or just a treat to make your everyday feel fancy. The combination of textures—the crisp crust, the creamy filling, and the fresh, slightly tangy fruit—makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. Bonus? It’s surprisingly easy to assemble once your crust is baked.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9- or 10-inch tart pan with removable bottom
• Food processor or pastry cutter (for crust)
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Small saucepan (for fruit glaze)
• Spatula
• Zester

Why You’ll Love Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

Visual Impact

It’s a showstopper on any table. The colorful fruit and glossy glaze make it almost too pretty to eat…almost.

Perfect Balance

The buttery crust, creamy filling, and fresh fruit balance sweetness, richness, and freshness beautifully.

Make-Ahead Friendly

You can bake the crust and prepare the mascarpone cream in advance, making assembly stress-free.

Customizable

Use whatever fresh fruit is in season—berries, peaches, kiwi, or stone fruits—for endless variations.

Crowd-Pleasing

Elegant enough for dinner parties yet approachable enough for family desserts or afternoon treats.

Ingredients in Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

(Note: the full ingredients list with measurements is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Crust

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and the base for a crisp, tender tart shell.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: Adds a delicate sweetness that enhances the buttery flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: The star of the crust, creating a tender, flaky texture.
• Egg: Binds the dough and adds richness.

Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

• Heavy Cream: Whipped to add lightness and fluffiness to the mascarpone filling.
• Confectioners’ Sugar: Sweetens the filling just enough without overpowering the fruit.
• Lemon Zest: Brightens the creamy filling with subtle citrus notes.
• Vanilla Extract & Vanilla Bean Seeds: Infuses the cream with fragrant, luxurious vanilla flavor.
• Mascarpone Cheese: Rich, creamy, and perfectly smooth—this is the heart of the filling.

Fruit Topping

• Fresh Fruit: Sliced strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, peaches, or any seasonal fruit you love.
• Preserves & Water: Heated into a glaze to give fruit a shiny, appetizing finish.

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

In a food processor or with a pastry cutter, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add butter in pieces and pulse (or cut in) until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold egg and pulse until the dough just comes together. Press into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out chilled dough and press it evenly into a tart pan with a removable bottom. Prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

In a mixing bowl, beat cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. In another bowl, combine mascarpone, 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar, lemon zest, vanilla extract, and vanilla bean seeds. Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until smooth and fluffy.

Assemble the Tart

Spread mascarpone cream evenly in the cooled tart shell. Arrange fresh fruit on top in a visually appealing pattern.

Prepare the Glaze

In a small saucepan, heat preserves and water over low heat until smooth. Brush lightly over fruit to give a glossy finish.

Serve & Enjoy

Chill tart for 30 minutes to set slightly, slice, and serve. Each bite offers a perfect balance of crisp crust, creamy filling, and juicy, vibrant fruit.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: ~350
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: ~45 minutes

How to Serve Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream

• As a Dessert: Perfect finale for brunch, dinner parties, or holiday meals.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair a slice with a warm beverage for an indulgent afternoon treat.
• For Special Occasions: Birthdays, baby showers, or elegant gatherings—this tart always impresses.
• Alone or With Extras: Serve as-is, or with a drizzle of chocolate, extra fresh berries, or a sprinkle of toasted almonds.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Prepare in Advance: Crust and filling can be made a day ahead, keeping the tart fresh and stress-free.
• Refrigerate: Store tart in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add glaze just before serving for best shine.
• Freezing: Crust can be frozen before baking; thaw and bake when ready. Cream and fruit are best added fresh.

Variations to Try

• Seasonal Fruits: Use figs, plums, or berries for different flavor profiles.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange or lime zest to the mascarpone cream for bright notes.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle toasted pistachios or almonds over the top.
• Chocolate Accent: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over fruit for an extra indulgence.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a store-bought tart shell?
A1: Absolutely! Just bake it according to package directions for convenience.

Q2: Can I make this tart vegan?
A2: Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and a vegan cream cheese alternative.

Q3: Can I prepare the cream the night before?
A3: Yes! Keep refrigerated and fold in whipped cream just before assembling for the freshest texture.

Q4: What fruit works best?
A4: Berries, kiwi, peaches, mango, or a combination of colorful fruits for a visually appealing tart.

Q5: How do I keep the fruit from getting soggy?
A5: Brush with glaze just before serving and avoid slicing fruit too far in advance.

Conclusion

This Fresh Fruit Tart with Vanilla Mascarpone Cream is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort. The crisp, buttery crust, the silky mascarpone filling, and the vibrant fresh fruit make it a dessert that feels luxurious without being intimidating.

Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual treat to brighten your day, this tart is guaranteed to impress both the eyes and the taste buds. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and create a beautiful, delicious tart that everyone will love.

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