Description
Experience the rich, creamy delight of South African Milk Tart (Melktert)—a classic dessert with a smooth custard filling and a buttery crust. Infused with a hint of cinnamon, this traditional South African treat is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this milk tart is light, comforting, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 large egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling:
4 cups whole milk
1 cinnamon stick
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ground cinnamon, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan.
- In a large bowl, combine flour and sugar for the crust. Cut in chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough just comes together. Press the dough into the tart pan, ensuring an even layer across the bottom and up the sides.
- Bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
- For the filling, heat milk and a cinnamon stick in a saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, cornstarch, flour, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the warm milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens, about 10 minutes.
- Pour the custard into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top. Let the tart cool to room temperature.
- Once cooled, dust the top generously with ground cinnamon. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream.
Ensure the tart is completely cooled before serving to allow the custard to fully set.
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: South African
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 servings
- Calories: 250 kcal
Keywords: South African Milk Tart, Melktert recipe, traditional South African dessert, cinnamon milk tart, custard tart, easy milk tart recipe