How to Make the Perfect Mango Curd Tart

Mango Curd Tart

Discover a creamy, zesty Mango Curd Tart recipe that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. This Mango Curd Tart combines the tropical sweetness of ripe mangoes with a tangy, smooth curd filling nestled in a buttery, crisp tart shell. It’s a refreshing dessert that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is beautiful on the table, guaranteed to impress your family and friends with each luscious bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Refreshing tropical flavor: The ripe mangoes bring a natural sweetness balanced by zesty citrus notes for a bright and lively taste.
  • Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples and fresh fruit, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all levels.
  • Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a casual brunch or a special celebration, this tart fits every mood effortlessly.
  • Elegant presentation: The golden curd with a glossy finish makes it visually stunning without extra fuss.
  • Make ahead friendly: Great for preparing in advance and storing, freeing you up on the day of your event.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Mango Curd Tart comes together with a handful of carefully chosen ingredients that each play a crucial role in the dish’s irresistible flavor and texture. From a buttery crust to the silky mango curd, every component is essential to balance sweetness, tartness, and creaminess.

  • Fresh ripe mangoes: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
  • Egg yolks: These add richness and help thicken the curd to a luscious consistency.
  • Granulated sugar: Balances the tartness of citrus and adds sweetness without overpowering.
  • Lemon juice: Adds a necessary tang that enhances the mango flavor and helps set the curd.
  • Unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and richness to the curd for a smooth finish.
  • Flour: For a tender, flaky tart crust that complements the creamy filling.
  • Cold water: Helps bring the crust dough together without making it tough.

Variations for Mango Curd Tart

Feel free to get creative with this Mango Curd Tart recipe! It’s incredibly flexible and can be adapted to fit dietary preferences or to switch up flavors while keeping that classic creamy texture and refreshing taste.

  • Gluten-free crust: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend for a crisp base without gluten.
  • Coconut mango curd: Add a splash of coconut milk to the curd for a tropical twist that elevates the flavor.
  • Spiced mango curd: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon to add warm, aromatic notes.
  • Dairy-free version: Use coconut oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter for a plant-based tart.
  • Mixed fruit topping: Add slices of kiwi, passion fruit, or berries on top for color and extra freshness.
How to Make the Perfect Mango Curd Tart

How to Make Mango Curd Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour and a pinch of salt. Add cold cubed butter and work it into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap with plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Bake the Tart Shell

Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface and press it into a tart pan. Trim excess dough and prick the base with a fork. Line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, remove the weights and paper, then bake another 10 minutes until golden and crisp. Let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Mango Curd

Puree fresh mango flesh in a blender until smooth. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and lemon juice until combined. Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler) and continually whisk the mixture while slowly adding the mango puree. Cook gently until thickened to a custard consistency, then remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Pour the warm mango curd into the cooled tart shell and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until fully set. For the best flavor, let the tart chill overnight so the curd firms up beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Mango Curd Tart

  • Ripe mango matters: Use fully ripe, juicy mangoes for the richest flavor and vibrant color in your curd.
  • Don’t overheat the curd: Cook the mango mixture slowly over gentle heat to avoid curdling the eggs.
  • Chill the dough: Cold dough prevents shrinking and helps maintain a flaky, tender tart shell.
  • Use unsalted butter: This allows you to control the salt balance perfectly in your curd and crust.
  • Strain the curd: For extra smoothness, strain the cooked curd before adding butter to remove any cooked egg bits.

How to Serve Mango Curd Tart

Garnishes

Top your Mango Curd Tart with fresh mango slices, edible flowers, or a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes to add texture and an extra pop of color. A light dusting of powdered sugar also enhances the tart’s presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

Complement this tropical dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of lightly whipped cream, or even fresh berries to contrast the creamy curd with freshness and lightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual mini tartlets for a party or slice the tart into elegant squares and pipe whipped cream rosettes on top for a stunning dessert platter. Layer the mango curd into clear glasses with crushed biscuits for a quick mango parfait twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Mango Curd Tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The curd stays creamy and the crust remains crisp, making it easy to enjoy again without any quality loss.

Freezing

You can freeze the tart without the garnish by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving for best texture.

Reheating

Serve the tart chilled or at room temperature; reheating is not necessary and may affect the texture of the curd. If desired, allow it to sit out for 15-20 minutes before slicing for a softer experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned mango puree instead of fresh mangoes?

Yes, canned mango puree can be used, but fresh ripe mangoes provide a fresher taste and brighter color with a more vibrant flavor profile.

How long does the Mango Curd Tart last in the fridge?

When properly stored covered, it will last about 3 days without compromising taste or texture.

Can I make the curd and crust in advance?

Absolutely! Both the crust and curd can be prepared a day ahead, making assembly and chilling quick and easy on the day you want to serve.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

The traditional recipe contains butter, but you can substitute with coconut oil or a plant-based butter to make it dairy-free without losing creamy texture.

What can I do if my curd is too runny?

If the curd seems runny, gently cook it a bit longer over low heat while stirring constantly, or add a little cornstarch slurry to help it thicken faster.

Final Thoughts

This Mango Curd Tart is your new go-to dessert for impressing guests or treating yourself to something special. Its harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and sweet flavors makes every bite pure joy. Give this recipe a try—you’ll fall in love with how effortlessly it turns simple ingredients into a stunning tropical delight.

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Mango Curd Tart

A creamy and zesty Mango Curd Tart featuring ripe tropical mangoes blended into a smooth curd filling set in a buttery, crisp tart shell. This vibrant dessert is easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion, and makes an elegant, refreshing treat.

  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 hours (including chilling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Fusion / Tropical
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if gluten-free flour is used)

Ingredients

Scale

Tart Crust

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 34 tbsp cold water

Mango Curd Filling

  • 2 large ripe mangoes (about 2 cups mango flesh), peeled and chopped
  • 4 large egg yolks
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh mango slices
  • Edible flowers
  • Toasted coconut flakes
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tart Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and work it in using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Bake the Tart Shell: Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and press it into a tart pan. Trim excess dough and prick the base with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes. Remove weights and parchment, then bake an additional 10 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool completely.
  3. Make the Mango Curd: Puree the mango flesh until smooth. In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and lemon juice. Set the bowl over simmering water (double boiler) and whisk continuously while slowly adding mango puree. Cook gently until the mixture thickens to a custard consistency. Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted and smooth.
  4. Assemble the Tart: Pour the warm mango curd into the cooled tart shell and spread evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set for best results.

Notes

  • Use fully ripe, juicy mangoes for the richest flavor and best color.
  • Cook the curd slowly over gentle heat to prevent curdling.
  • Chill the dough thoroughly to avoid shrinkage and keep the crust flaky.
  • Use unsalted butter to control salt levels in the recipe.
  • For extra smooth curd, strain the mixture before adding butter.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of tart)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 80mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 135mg

Keywords: mango tart, mango curd tart, tropical dessert, mango dessert, fruit tart, gluten free tart option, creamy tart, summer dessert

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