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Sweet Rhubarb Custard Tart

Sweet Rhubarb Custard Tart

A delightful and classic Sweet Rhubarb Custard Tart featuring a flaky pastry crust, a sweet-tart rhubarb filling, and a creamy, rich custard topping. Perfect for spring and an elegant dessert for any occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, French
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter cold, cut into cubes
  • 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Rhubarb Filling
  • 4 cups rhubarb chopped into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Custard Topping
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch nutmeg optional

Method
 

Instructions
  1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges as desired. Prick the bottom with a fork several times. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove from oven and reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
  3. **Prepare the Rhubarb Filling:** In a medium bowl, combine the chopped rhubarb, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Toss gently to coat the rhubarb. Pour the rhubarb mixture evenly into the pre-baked tart crust.
  4. **Prepare the Custard Topping:** In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, heavy cream, milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and optional pinch of nutmeg until well combined and smooth.
  5. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the rhubarb in the tart pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center of the custard should come out clean. If the crust edges appear to be browning too quickly, you can cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
  6. Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. This will help the custard set fully. Serve at room temperature or chilled, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Notes

For best results, use fresh, firm rhubarb. If using frozen rhubarb, do not thaw it completely; instead, toss it with the dry ingredients while still partially frozen. The tart can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.