Melk tart, a classic South African dessert, has gained popularity worldwide for its rich and creamy texture. The traditional recipe typically consists of a flaky pastry crust filled with a velvety milk-based custard, baked to perfection until golden brown. In this article, we’ll explore 18 creative twists on the classic melk tart recipe, each showcasing a unique flavor combination that will delight your taste buds.
From classic vanilla bean and cinnamon-spiced variations, to innovative flavors like coconut, chocolate drizzle, and lemon zest, there’s something for everyone in our collection of creamy melk tart recipes. Whether you’re looking for a traditional dessert to impress your guests or a show-stopping treat to satisfy your sweet tooth, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for the full list of recipes and get ready to indulge in the rich and creamy world of melk tarts!
Classic South African Melk Tart
A traditional South African dessert, Melk Tart is a creamy, sweet, and indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. This classic recipe is a staple in many South African households and is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (250ml) milk
– 1/2 cup (125g) sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup (60g) cake flour
– 1/4 teaspoon butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and flour.
5. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
6. Pour the mixture into a buttered 9-inch (23cm) tart pan with a removable bottom.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly jiggly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cinnamon-Spiced Melk Tart
Warm up with a comforting Cinnamon-Spiced Melk Tart, perfect for snuggling up on a chilly evening. This sweet treat combines the richness of milk, the warmth of cinnamon, and the flaky crust of pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves and mixture simmers.
4. Pour milk mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. Dot the top of the tart with melted butter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Bean Melk Tart
A classic dessert with a creamy twist, this Vanilla Bean Milk Tart is perfect for warm weather gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups vanilla bean-infused milk (see note)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Whisk together milk, sugar, and egg yolks until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Note: To make vanilla bean-infused milk, combine 2 cups whole milk with 1/4 cup split vanilla beans (with the insides scraped out) in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 180°F. Strain and let cool to room temperature before using.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Melk Tart
This Coconut Milk Tart recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with a buttery pastry crust, creating a sweet and indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this tropical treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch tart shell
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Roll out the tart shell and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Add the melted butter and whisk until combined.
5. Beat in the eggs until well incorporated.
6. Pour the coconut mixture into the prepared tart shell.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and slightly puffed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Drizzle Melk Tart
Experience the perfect blend of rich chocolate and velvety cream with this decadent tart recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups milk chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the cream mixture into the pie crust and bake for 15-20 minutes or until set.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled tart, allowing it to set before serving.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Melk Tart
This rich and creamy tart is a perfect dessert for special occasions. The caramelized milk filling gives it a deep, velvety texture and a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the milk has thickened and turned golden brown.
5. Pour the caramelized milk filling into the pastry crust and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Zest Melk Tart
This refreshing tart combines the sweetness of milk with the brightness of lemon zest, perfect for a springtime treat or a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, lemon juice, and zest.
7. Pour filling into baked tart crust and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until set.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Almond Crust Melk Tart
Experience the rich flavors of France with this delectable Almond Crust Melk Tart. A buttery crust infused with almonds and a velvety melk filling come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 1/2 cups melk (or heavy cream)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and almonds.
3. Add softened butter and granulated sugar; mix until crumbly.
4. Press crust into a 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, melk, and vanilla extract.
7. Pour filling over warm crust; bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until set.
8. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Cardamom-Infused Melk Tart
This traditional Swedish tart combines the warmth of cardamom with the creaminess of melk (a type of milk) and a buttery pastry crust. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup melk (or whole milk)
– 1 tablespoon grated cardamom
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together melk, cardamom, and eggs.
6. Pour milk mixture into the prepared tart crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
8. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Berry-Topped Melk Tart
Elevate your dessert game with this sweet and tangy berry-topped melt tart. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup (120g) mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add softened butter; mix until crumbly.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch (23cm) tart pan with removable bottom. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Whisk heavy cream and eggs in a separate bowl. Pour into baked tart shell. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until filling is set.
5. Arrange mixed berries on top of the tart. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Pistachio Melk Tart
Pistachio Melk Tart: A Delightful Twist on Classic Cream Pies
This Pistachio Melk Tart is a creative take on the traditional cream pie, featuring a vibrant green pistachio filling and a crumbly pastry crust. Perfect for a unique dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, granulated sugar, and pistachios.
7. Beat in egg yolks; pour filling into baked tart crust.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Orange Blossom Melk Tart
This tart combines the brightness of orange zest with the richness of melk (a type of South African milk) and a hint of orange blossom water. Perfect for a warm weather dessert or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange zest
– 1/4 cup melk (or substitute with heavy cream)
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Mix sugar, orange zest, and melk in a bowl. Spread mixture evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
4. Drizzle orange blossom water over the filling.
5. Fold edges of pastry up to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over the crust.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Rooibos Tea Melk Tart
Combine the natural sweetness of rooibos tea with the creaminess of milk and the richness of a flaky tart crust for a unique dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rooibos tea leaves
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rooibos tea leaves and milk. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the tea is fully infused and the mixture reaches a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for 5 minutes. Strain the tea leaves and discard.
4. Add sugar to the tea mixture and whisk until dissolved.
5. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Fill the crust with the rooibos tea mixture.
6. Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread-Spiced Melk Tart
Escape the ordinary with this sweet and spicy tart, perfect for cozying up on a chilly day. The combination of gingerbread spices and creamy melk will transport you to a winter wonderland.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup melk (or heavy cream)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a tart pan with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt. Add melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared tart pan. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melk, egg, and honey. Pour mixture over the baked tart crust.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Raspberry Swirl Melk Tart
A sweet and tangy treat that combines the simplicity of a milk tart with the burst of flavor from fresh raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch (23cm) tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour milk mixture into the tart crust.
7. Arrange fresh raspberries on top of the milk mixture in a swirling pattern.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Melk Tart
A sweet and tangy tart that combines the richness of melted chocolate with the warmth of maple syrup.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
4. Drizzle maple syrup over the melted chocolate and sprinkle with salt and confectioners’ sugar.
5. Fold edges of puff pastry up over the filling to form a crust, pressing gently to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honeycomb Crunch Melk Tart
This recipe combines the classic flavors of honey and milk with a crunchy honeycomb topping, creating a unique dessert that’s sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this sweet treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup honeycomb toffee bits (or crushed honeycomb)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and honey. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter.
4. Pour mixture into pie crust and smooth top.
5. Sprinkle honeycomb toffee bits on top of the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lavender-Scented Melk Tart
Experience the subtle charm of lavender in this unique melk tart, perfect for a sophisticated dessert or special occasion. The creamy filling and flaky crust are infused with the soothing aroma of dried lavender, creating a truly memorable treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dried lavender buds
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the crust dough and place in a 9-inch (23cm) tart pan.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt. Add milk and dried lavender buds; stir until well combined.
3. Pour the filling mixture into the prepared crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the filling is set.
4. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of South Africa with these 18 creamy melk tart recipes! From classic and traditional to innovative and decadent, this collection has something for every taste bud. Discover how simple it is to elevate your baking game with these mouthwatering variations, including cinnamon-spiced, vanilla bean-infused, coconut cream-topped, chocolate drizzled, caramelized, lemon zested, almond crusted, cardamom-infused, and many more! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this article is sure to inspire your next baking adventure.