Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk powder
- 4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 cup)
- 10 tablespoons cold butter, cut into pieces
- 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
- 6 large eggs
- 1 & 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper
- 1 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (at least 1/2 cup per tart)
- 2/3 cup blue cheese, crumbled (about 1/3 cup per tart)
- 4-5 large heirloom tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust Base: In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and buttermilk powder. Add the cream cheese and pulse or mix until the mixture starts to come together.
- Add Butter: Cut the cold butter into pieces and add to the processor or bowl. Pulse or cut in with a pastry cutter until the mixture is crumbly and you still see chunks of butter for a flaky texture.
- Incorporate Water: Add 2 tablespoons ice water to the dough and toss or pulse. Check by squeezing some dough in your hand; it should stick together. If it doesn’t, add the remaining ice water gradually until the dough holds.
- Knead and Chill Dough: Gently knead the dough on a floured surface without overworking. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll each disk into a 12-inch circle. If dough is too cold, let it soften briefly at room temperature for easier rolling.
- Form Tart Shells: Transfer one dough circle to a 9-inch tart pan, fitting it into all corners. Roll the pin over the top to trim excess dough. Repeat with second dough disk. Refrigerate shells while preparing the filling.
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking.
- Make Custard Filling: Whisk together eggs, milk, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and coarse black pepper until combined and smooth.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle at least 1/2 cup shredded cheddar and 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese evenly over each tart crust.
- Assemble Tart: Pour the custard mixture evenly into the tart shells over the cheeses. Arrange sliced heirloom tomatoes on top in your preferred pattern.
- Prepare for Baking: Place tarts on baking sheets to catch any spillage during baking.
- Bake: Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the custard center is set.
- Optional Broil: For a crispier top, place tarts under the broiler for about 1 minute, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of thyme. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is very cold to create a flaky crust texture.
- Use heirloom tomatoes for the best flavor and visual appeal, but any ripe tomatoes will work.
- Do not overwork the dough to prevent a tough crust.
- Adjust the amount of blue cheese to your taste preference, but be cautious as it is quite strong.
- Watch carefully if broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping.
- This tart can be served warm or at room temperature and pairs well with a crisp green salad.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Savory Tart
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian