Cretan Twist on Manchester Tart

Ingredients

In this Cretan adaptation, the traditional custard filling of the Manchester Tart is replaced with a creamy Cretan yogurt infused with local honey. The cherries used are Cretan cherries, known for their intense flavor and juiciness. Additionally, toasted almonds are added to enhance the nutty undertones of the tart. We alse have the original recipe for Manchester Tart, so you can check it out.

• 250g (9 oz) all-purpose flour 250g (9 oz) all-purpose flour
• 125g (4.4 oz) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 125g (4.4 oz) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 50g (1.8 oz) powdered sugar 50g (1.8 oz) powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk 1 egg yolk
• 500g (17.6 oz) Cretan yogurt 500g (17.6 oz) Cretan yogurt
• 3 tablespoons local honey 3 tablespoons local honey
• 300g (10.6 oz) Cretan cherries, pitted 300g (10.6 oz) Cretan cherries, pitted
• 50g (1.8 oz) toasted almonds, chopped 50g (1.8 oz) toasted almonds, chopped

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 9g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 34g, 15g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs.
3. 3.
   Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough comes together. If needed, add a tablespoon of cold water to help bind the dough.
4. 4.
   Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and line a tart tin with it. Trim any excess dough.
5. 5.
   In a separate bowl, mix the Cretan yogurt and honey until well combined. Spread the yogurt mixture evenly over the pastry base.
6. 6.
   Arrange the pitted cherries on top of the yogurt filling.
7. 7.
   Sprinkle the toasted almonds over the cherries.
8. 8.
   Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the cherries are slightly caramelized.
9. 9.
   Allow the tart to cool before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cretan cherries — Make sure to use ripe and juicy cherries for the best flavor. If Cretan cherries are not available, you can substitute with any other sweet cherries.
• Cretan yogurt — Opt for full-fat Cretan yogurt for a creamy and rich texture. If you can't find Cretan yogurt, Greek yogurt can be a good substitute.
• Toasted almonds — To toast the almonds, spread them on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool before chopping and using as a topping.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more indulgent version, serve the tart with a drizzle of Cretan thyme honey.
• If you prefer a sweeter tart, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving.
• Experiment with different types of nuts for the topping, such as pistachios or walnuts, to add your own twist to the recipe.
• Serve the tart chilled for a refreshing dessert on warm summer days.
• This tart can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days. Just add the cherries and almonds before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Cretan Twist on Manchester Tart as a delightful dessert after a Cretan-inspired meal. Cut it into slices and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant presentation.

Presentation advice

To enhance the visual appeal of the tart, arrange the cherries in a decorative pattern on top of the yogurt filling. Sprinkle the toasted almonds evenly, ensuring they cover the entire surface. The golden crust and vibrant cherries will make this tart a centerpiece on any dessert table.