Jamie Oliver Frangipane Tart Recipe [GUIDE]

Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart is a classic British dessert but with a twist of Jamie’s unique flair. It’s made from a buttery pastry base filled with frangipane – a smooth, almond-flavored filling that’s both rich and delicate. The tart can be made in many ways but Jamie’s version is particularly beloved because of its balance of sweetness, nuttiness and a subtle citrus zing. A top layer of fresh fruit like pears or berries can give it a fresh, juicy contrast to the almond base.It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion. What makes it extra special is that it’s deceptively simple to make, yet looks like something you’d get at a fancy bakery.

Jamie Oliver Frangipane Tart Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make the tart, broken down by section:

1. For The Pastry

   • Butter – Cold and cubed for that flaky texture.
   • Plain Flour – This gives the tart a soft yet sturdy base.
   • Icing Sugar – This adds a hint of sweetness to the pastry.
   • Egg – Helps bring the pastry dough together.
   • Cold Water – To bring the dough to the perfect consistency.

2. For The Frangipane Filling

   • Butter – Softened to mix into the almond flour smoothly.
   • Caster Sugar – Gives a fine texture to the frangipane and ensures it’s evenly sweet.
   • Almond Flour (Ground Almonds). The heart of the frangipane, lending that signature nutty flavor.
   • Eggs – They bind the filling and give it structure.
   • Vanilla Extract – A subtle flavor that enhances the almond notes.
   • Almond Extract – To amp up the almond flavor, making it rich and aromatic.
   • Flour – Just a bit to give some body to the frangipane and help it set.

3. For The Fruit (optional)

   • Pears (or any other fruit like apples, raspberries or even apricots). These add a juicy, fruity contrast to the rich filling.

Equipment Needed

To get the perfect frangipane tart, you’ll need a few pieces of equipment:

1. Food Processor or Mixing Bowl. For making the pastry and frangipane filling.
2. Rolling Pin – To roll out the pastry to an even thickness.
3. Tart Tin – A loose-bottomed tart tin works best for easy removal.
4. Baking Paper and Weights. For blind baking the tart shell.
5. Pastry Brush – To brush the tart with a little egg wash, giving it a golden finish.
6. Oven – For baking the pastry and the frangipane.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart

This tart isn’t overly complicated but there are a few key steps to get it just right.

1. Make The Pastry

   • Start by mixing together the butter, flour, icing sugar and a pinch of salt in a food processor until it looks like breadcrumbs.
   • Add the egg and pulse until it forms a dough. You might need to add a little cold water if it’s too dry.
   • Wrap it in cling film and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This will help it firm up and make rolling it out easier.

2. Blind Bake The Pastry

   • Roll out the dough to fit your tart tin. Press it into the edges and trim off any excess.
   • Line the pastry with baking paper and fill it with pie weights (or dried beans) to prevent it from rising while baking.
   • Bake for about 15 minutes at 180°C (350°F), then remove the paper and weights and bake for another 5 minutes to brown the base.

3. Make The Frangipane Filling

   • Beat the butter and sugar together until creamy. Add the ground almonds, eggs and extracts and mix until smooth.
   • You should have a thick, spreadable mixture. If it’s too runny, add a little flour to thicken it up.

4. Assemble And Bake

   • Once your pastry shell is ready, fill it with the frangipane mixture.
   • If you’re using fruit, slice it thinly and arrange it on top of the frangipane.
   • Bake the tart for around 30-35 minutes at 180°C (350°F), until the frangipane is golden and firm.

5. Finishing Touches

   • Let it cool slightly before serving. You can dust it with icing sugar or drizzle it with a little apricot jam for a shiny finish.

What I Learnt

Making Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart taught me a few things about pastry and flavor balance. First, the process of blind baking is key. It ensures your base doesn’t get soggy, especially when you add a moist filling like frangipane. The texture of the pastry is also really important. you want it to be light and flaky but sturdy enough to hold the filling.

I also learned that frangipane is versatile. it can be flavored in so many ways! The almond flavor can be toned down or strengthened depending on your preference. I found that the addition of vanilla and almond extracts adds a nice depth to the flavor. The combination of fruit and frangipane works really well; it’s not just for looks. the fruit brings a fresh juiciness that contrasts the richness of the almond filling.

Recipe Tweaks For Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart

Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart is already a great recipe on its own but there are some fun tweaks you can try to elevate it even further.

• Fruit Variations: Jamie’s version often uses seasonal fruit but you can mix it up based on your preferences. Try swapping the traditional pear or raspberry with fresh figs, roasted apples or even a tropical twist with mango or pineapple. A drizzle of honey over the fruit before baking can add a bit more sweetness and caramelize the edges.
• Almond Flour Substitute: If you want a gluten-free option, swap regular flour for almond flour. This enhances the nutty flavor of the frangipane and keeps the tart rich and moist. You could also try using a combination of almond flour and coconut flour for a slightly different texture.
• Spices for Extra Flavor: While the classic recipe is delicious, adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg or even a drop of almond extract could make it more aromatic. A splash of vanilla bean paste will also complement the nutty frangipane filling.
• Zesty Twist: Add a zest of lemon or orange into the frangipane mixture. This provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the almond filling and pairs perfectly with any citrusy fruits you might be using.
• Shortcrust Pastry Upgrade: If you’re looking to amp up the texture of the base, try adding ground almonds or hazelnuts to your pastry dough. It’ll add an extra layer of flavor that harmonizes with the frangipane.

Storage Tips For Leftovers

Leftovers of Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart are definitely worth saving and it’s pretty simple to store them right!

• Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the leftovers within a day or two, you can store the tart at room temperature in an airtight container. Just make sure it’s not too warm or humid where you’re storing it as that can make the pastry soggy.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep the tart in the fridge, especially if you’ve used fruit that could spoil quickly, like berries. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors.
• Freezing: If you want to keep it for an extended period, you can freeze individual slices or the whole tart. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it up in a low-temperature oven to refresh the pastry and the filling.

What To Eat With Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart?

Jamie’s tart is rich and decadent, so pairing it with something light and fresh can provide a perfect balance. Here are a few ideas:

• Whipped Cream or Crème Fraîche: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or tangy crème fraîche will complement the rich almond filling. You could even infuse the cream with vanilla or orange zest for added flavor.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla bean, salted caramel or a scoop of pistachio ice cream would add a delightful contrast to the tart’s texture. The cold creaminess of the ice cream against the warm tart is just chef’s kiss.
• Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh raspberries, blueberries or strawberries on the side adds a nice juicy burst and a pop of color. The slight acidity of the berries works wonderfully with the nutty filling.
• Mint or Basil Garnish: Fresh herbs like mint or basil can be surprisingly refreshing and add a light herbal note that balances the sweetness of the tart. A couple of leaves tucked on top of each slice adds a subtle yet elegant touch.
• Tea or Coffee: For a more indulgent treat, serve the tart with a strong espresso or a fragrant pot of Earl Grey tea. The bitterness of the coffee or the floral notes of the tea contrast with the sweetness of the dessert, making each bite more balanced.

FAQs

What Is Frangipane Made Of?

Frangipane is a creamy almond filling made with butter, sugar, eggs, and ground almonds. It’s a key component of the tart.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Frangipane Tart Ahead Of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the tart crust and filling in advance. Just keep them in the fridge and assemble before serving.

What Fruit Can I Use In A Frangipane Tart?

Jamie’s recipe usually calls for fresh fruit like pears, plums, or apples. But you can swap in whatever fruit you prefer!