National Cherry Tart Day

National Cherry Tart Day: A Sweet Slice of Summer on June 18th

Pucker up, sweet lovers! June 18th is National Cherry Tart Day, the perfect excuse to indulge in one of summer’s quintessential desserts. As cherries reach their peak, their vibrant hues and tart flavors make them the ideal star for a delightful tart that sings of sunny days and lazy afternoons. But before we grab our rolling pins and pitting tools, let’s settle an age-old debate: how exactly is a tart different from a pie? Prepare to have your dessert definitions deliciously expanded as we dive into the world of cherry tarts! 🌞🍒

Tart vs. Pie: Unraveling the Delicious Mystery:

At first glance, tarts and pies might seem like pastry cousins, and they are! However, a few key differences set them apart. Pies are usually encased in a flaky pastry that hugs the filling from the sides and often the top. Tarts, on the other hand, are open-faced, showcasing their fillings proudly in a shallow, crumbly crust. The tart’s crust is more like a shortbread in texture—buttery and firm, providing a delightful contrast to the juicy, bursting cherries it encases.

Celebrating National Cherry Tart Day:

1. Bake a Cherry Tart: Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, making a cherry tart from scratch is a rewarding endeavor. Experiment with different recipes or put your twist on the classic.
2. Cherry Tart Contest: Get your community involved by hosting a cherry tart baking contest. It’s a sweet way to bring people together and share the love of baking.
3. Visit a Local Bakery: Not into baking? Support your local bakery by treating yourself to their cherry tart creations. It’s a delicious way to celebrate the day without turning on the oven.
4. Educate and Share: Use National Cherry Tart Day to educate others about the joy of baking and the difference between tarts and pies. Share your knowledge, recipes, and photos on social media to spread the cherry cheer!

Tips for the Perfect Cherry Tart:

• Cherry Picking: For the best flavor, choose fresh, tart cherries like Morello or Montmorency. If fresh cherries aren’t available, frozen ones can work well too.
• Blind Baking: To avoid a soggy bottom, blind bake your tart crust for a few minutes before adding the filling. This step ensures a crisp, delicious base.
• Glaze for Days: Brush your finished tart with a simple glaze of cherry jam and water to give it a professional, glossy finish that tastes fantastic.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve your cherry tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra decadent treat.

The Joy of Cherry Tarts:

Beyond their delicious taste, cherry tarts are a celebration of simplicity and seasonal eating. The process of making a tart, from pitting each cherry to the final sprinkle of sugar, is a mindful and rewarding kitchen adventure. Plus, there’s something incredibly satisfying about slicing into a tart you’ve made yourself, revealing the ruby-red filling inside.

National Cherry Tart Day is not just a celebration of a beloved dessert; it’s an invitation to explore the joys of seasonal baking and to appreciate the finer distinctions in the world of pastries. Whether you’re team tart or pie, today is the day to enjoy the sweet and tart flavors of cherry in its most elegant form. So, preheat your ovens, prepare your cherries, and let’s make this National Cherry Tart Day the sweetest one yet! 🍒🥧