A Classic Orange Tart is a timeless dessert that balances bright citrus flavor with a smooth, creamy filling and a crisp buttery crust. Elegant yet simple, this tart is perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or whenever you crave a refined citrus dessert. Its fresh orange aroma and glossy finish make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Classic Orange Tart
- Fresh, natural orange flavor
- Silky smooth citrus custard
- Crisp, buttery tart crust
- Not overly sweet, perfectly balanced
- Ideal for make-ahead entertaining
This dessert highlights oranges in their purest form, letting their natural sweetness and gentle acidity shine.
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust
- All-purpose flour
- Unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Powdered sugar
- Egg yolk
- A pinch of salt
For the Orange Filling
- Fresh orange juice
- Orange zest
- Granulated sugar
- Eggs
- Heavy cream
- Unsalted butter
How to Make Classic Orange Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
In a bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. Add the egg yolk and mix just until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into a tart pan, then chill briefly to prevent shrinking.
Bake the crust until lightly golden and fully set. Allow it to cool before adding the filling.
Step 2: Make the Orange Filling
Whisk together fresh orange juice, orange zest, sugar, and eggs until smooth. Gently heat the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in butter and cream until fully incorporated.
The filling should be smooth, glossy, and fragrant with orange zest.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
Pour the warm orange filling into the cooled tart shell. Bake at a moderate temperature until the filling is just set in the center, with a slight wobble. Avoid overbaking to keep the texture creamy.
Step 4: Cool and Set
Allow the tart to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours to fully set. This step enhances the flavor and ensures clean slices.
Tips for the Perfect Orange Tart
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice for the best flavor
- Finely grate the zest to avoid bitterness
- Do not overbake — the filling should remain silky
- Chill well before slicing for a clean, professional finish
Serving Suggestions
- Dust lightly with powdered sugar
- Garnish with thin orange slices or zest curls
- Serve with whipped cream or crème fraîche
- Pair with tea or espresso for an elegant dessert moment
Storage
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Keep covered to preserve freshness
- Serve chilled or slightly softened at room temperature
Final Thoughts
A Classic Orange Tart is a refined dessert that celebrates citrus in its most elegant form. With its crisp crust and velvety orange custard, it’s a recipe that never goes out of style. Simple ingredients, careful technique, and fresh oranges come together to create a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated.