Manchester Tart is a beloved British classic, featuring a buttery shortcrust pastry, a sweet layer of raspberry jam, creamy custard, and a sprinkle of coconut and maraschino cherries. This retro dessert has been a staple in school dinners and family gatherings for generations, bringing back nostalgic memories with every bite!
🛒 Ingredients
For the Pastry:
✔ 200g plain flour (for a crisp, buttery crust!)
✔ 100g butter, cubed and chilled 🧈
✔ 2–3 tablespoons cold water (helps bind the dough!)
✔ A pinch of salt 🧂
For the Filling:
✔ 3 tablespoons raspberry jam (the signature tart base!) 🍓
✔ 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut (adds texture & sweetness!) 🥥
For the Custard:
✔ 500ml whole milk (for a rich, creamy custard!) 🥛
✔ 2 tablespoons custard powder (or cornstarch as an alternative!)
✔ 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for sweetness!)
✔ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the flavor!) 🌿
✔ 2 egg yolks (makes the custard extra silky!) 🥚
For Garnish:
✔ 1 tablespoon desiccated coconut (extra for the topping!) 🥥
✔ Glacé cherries or maraschino cherries, halved 🍒
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Pastry
In a large bowl, rub the butter into the flour and salt until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Gradually add cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
Wrap the dough in cling film and chill for 30 minutes.
2️⃣ Blind Bake the Tart Crust
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Roll out the pastry on a floured surface and line a 9-inch tart tin.
Prick the base with a fork, line with parchment paper, and fill with baking beans or rice.
Bake for 15 minutes, remove the beans, and bake for 5 more minutes until golden.
3️⃣ Prepare the Custard
In a saucepan, heat milk until warm but not boiling.
In a bowl, whisk custard powder, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla with a splash of milk until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the custard mix, whisking constantly.
Return to the pan and cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
4️⃣ Assemble the Tart
Spread a layer of raspberry jam evenly over the cooled pastry base. 🍓
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of desiccated coconut over the jam. 🥥
Pour the warm custard over the jam layer, smoothing it out evenly.
5️⃣ Cool, Decorate & Serve!
Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.
Sprinkle with extra coconut and top with cherries for the final touch! 🍒
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
✔ Serve chilled for the best texture!
✔ Pair with a cup of tea for a classic British treat! ☕
✔ Drizzle with cream or serve with ice cream for extra indulgence! 🍦
🛠️ Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerate: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: The pastry base can be baked and frozen for up to 2 months. Assemble after thawing.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Traditional British Classic – A nostalgic, well-loved dessert!
✔ Rich, Creamy, & Buttery – The perfect balance of textures and flavors!
✔ Simple & Elegant – A stunning tea-time or dinner party treat!
This Traditional Manchester Tart is creamy, fruity, and absolutely delicious—a must-try for lovers of classic British baking! Try it today and enjoy a taste of nostalgia! 🥧✨