Cornflake Tart: The Nostalgic British Dessert You Need to Try

Cornflake Tarts are quintessential British desserts, featuring a crisp shortcrust pastry filled with raspberry or strawberry jam and a topping of cornflakes coated in golden syrup and toasted to perfection.

Ingredients

Shortcrust Pastry:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (28g) powdered sugar
• 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt
• 6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
• 4 tablespoons cold water

Filling:

• 2/3 cup (200g) raspberry or strawberry jam
• 50g unsalted butter
• 125g golden syrup
• 25g light brown sugar
• 100g cornflakes
• Custard, to serve (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry:

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (180C/160C fan/gas 4).

• In a food processor, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold, diced butter and pulse until the mixture resembles wet sand. Gradually add cold water until the dough forms.
• On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick. Line a 9 or 10-inch tart pan with the dough, trimming the edges. 
• Chill the crust briefly in the freezer.

2. Blind Bake the Crust:

•  Line the pastry with baking parchment and fill with pie weights, dried beans, or rice. Bake for 15 minutes.
• Remove the parchment and weights, then bake for another 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden. Let it cool on a wire rack.

3. Prepare the Cornflake Filling:

• In a small saucepan, melt the butter, golden syrup, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt over low heat. Stir until smooth.
• In a large bowl, combine the cornflakes with the melted mixture, carefully folding to coat without crushing the cornflakes.

4. Assemble the Tart:

• Spread the jam evenly over the baked pastry base.
• Spoon the cornflake mixture over the jam, pressing gently to cover it entirely.

5. Bake and Serve:

•  Return the tart to the oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes until the cornflakes are toasted and golden.
• Let the tart cool before slicing and serving with custard, if desired.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

This traditional British dessert combines ease of preparation with a uniquely delightful taste, often being a favorite among school children and adults alike.

Earlier SSP told how to brew the perfect pot of tea.