There’s something utterly delightful about a tart, and when it’s made with a luscious cranberry mousse and a buttery almond crust, it takes dessert to an entirely new level! I first stumbled upon this recipe while rummaging through my grandmother’s old recipe box, the kind overflowing with handwritten notes and smudged papers. I remember the first time I shared this tart with my friends during a cozy holiday gathering. Their eyes lit up with joy, and it was gobbled up in minutes! This tart has become a cherished addition to my dessert repertoire, especially for festive occasions.
What makes this recipe unique is the balance between the sweet and tangy cranberry mousse, which feels light and airy, and the nutty almond crust, giving it a delightful crunch. Not to mention, the colors are just a feast for the eyes! If you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this tart is a perfect choice—trust me, you won’t regret it!
What’s in Cranberry Mousse Tart with Almond Crust?
Almond Flour: This is the star of our crust! I absolutely love using almond flour as it gives a wonderful nutty flavor and a great texture. It also makes this tart gluten-free!
Granulated Sugar: We’ll need sugar to sweeten both the crust and the mousse. I recommend using a fine sugar for a smoother texture.
Butter: Ah, the good ol’ butter! It brings richness to the crust. I always opt for unsalted butter to control the saltiness in my desserts.
Fresh Cranberries: These tangy bites brighten the mousse, making it vibrant and refreshing. If fresh isn’t available, frozen cranberries work wonderfully too.
Whipping Cream: To give the mousse its airy texture, heavy whipping cream is essential. You can always add a tablespoon of sugar to sweeten it while whipping!
Lemon Juice: A touch of lemon juice enhances the flavor of the cranberries, making the tart even more delightful.
Is Cranberry Mousse Tart with Almond Crust Good for You?
This tart has its health benefits, especially considering the fresh cranberries. Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and can help boost your immune system—perfect for those chilly winter months! They’re low in calories and high in vitamins C and E, which are great for skin health.
However, due to the sugar content and butter in the crust, it’s worth enjoying this treat in moderation. It’s a special dessert, so indulge, but remember your portion sizes! Being aware of our intake while still enjoying those beloved flavors is key.
Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups almond flour (gluten-free, I prefer Bob’s Red Mill)
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar (for mousse)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
This recipe will serve 8 people.
How to Make Cranberry Mousse Tart with Almond Crust?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine the almond flour and ¼ cup of sugar. Pour in the melted butter and mix until you have a crumbly consistency.
3. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan. Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool.
4. For the mousse, in a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens—about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
5. In a bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Then gently fold in the cooled cranberry mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the mousse into the cooled almond crust. Spread evenly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or until set).
7. Before serving, you can garnish with a few fresh cranberries or even a dollop of whipped cream for that extra flair.
Sweet Tips for a Perfect Tart!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a hint of orange zest into the cranberry mix for an exciting twist!
– This tart is fabulous paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a light dollop of whipped cream.
– Leftovers (if you happen to have any) can be stored in the fridge for up to three days—just keep it tightly covered!
I promise you that making this Cranberry Mousse Tart with Almond Crust will not only fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas but also bring smiles to those who get to taste it. It’s a recipe that holds a bit of nostalgia for me and has brought such joy at gatherings. So, gather your ingredients, put on some festive tunes, and get ready for a delicious, flaky dream of a tart. I can’t wait for you to try it! Don’t forget to come back and share how yours turned out!