Why You’ll Love Mango Curd Tart Recipe Recipe
This tart delivers the rich flavor of mango in a silky curd that’s both sweet and slightly tangy. The crust provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts with the smooth filling. It’s elegant yet simple, perfect for entertaining or enjoying a refreshing dessert any day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
1½ cups crushed biscuits or graham crackers
2 tbsp sugar
6 tbsp melted butter
For the mango curd:
1¼ cups mango purée
¼ cup sugar
4 tbsp butter
3 tbsp lemon juice
4 egg yolks
2 whole eggs
Pinch of salt
Optional toppings:
Mango slices
Mint leaves
Toasted coconut
Fresh berries
Directions
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Prepare the crust: In a bowl, combine the crushed biscuits, sugar, and melted butter until evenly mixed.
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Bake the crust: Press the mixture firmly into a tart pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) until it turns lightly golden.
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Make the mango curd: Blend the mango to a smooth purée. In a saucepan over low heat, whisk together the mango purée, sugar, eggs, and lemon juice.
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Cook the curd: Keep whisking until the mixture becomes thick and glossy. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted and incorporated.
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Fill the tart: Optionally strain the curd for extra smoothness, then pour it into the cooled crust.
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Chill: Refrigerate the filled tart for 3–4 hours until the curd sets.
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Serve: Top with fresh mango slices, mint, toasted coconut, or fresh berries before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 10
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: Approximately 3–4 hours for the curd to set properly
Variations
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Citrus twist: Replace lemon juice with lime juice for a sharper tropical note.
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Ginger crust: Use ginger snaps instead of graham crackers for added spice.
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Mini tartlets: Make individual portions using mini tart pans for easy serving.
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Coconut crust: Add shredded coconut to the crust mixture for extra flavor.
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Dairy-free: Substitute butter with plant-based alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Storage/Reheating
Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Because the filling is a custard-based curd, keep it chilled until just before serving. There’s no need to reheat; serve cold for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
What type of mango is best for mango curd?
Use ripe, sweet mangoes for the best flavor. Varieties like Ataulfo (Honey) or Kent work well.
Can I make the tart ahead of time?
Yes. The curd and crust can both be prepared in advance. Chill separately and assemble before serving.
Do I have to bake the crust?
Baking helps set and crisp the crust, though some no-bake versions use a pressed biscuit base that’s chilled instead.
Can I use frozen mango puree?
Yes — thaw completely and drain excess liquid if needed for proper curd consistency.
Is it possible to make mini tarts?
Absolutely. Use smaller tart pans and adjust baking/chilling time accordingly.
How do I know when the mango curd is done cooking?
The curd should thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon and look glossy before removing from heat.
Can I add other fruits?
Fresh berries or citrus zest on top add flavor contrast and visual appeal.
What’s a good substitute for lemon juice?
Lime juice works well and adds a slightly different citrus brightness.
Can I freeze this tart?
You can freeze it, but texture may change slightly. Wrap well and thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Why is my curd runny?
If not cooked long enough to thicken or not chilled sufficiently, the curd may remain loose — ensure sufficient cooking and chilling time.
Conclusion
This Mango Curd Tart is a delightful balance of textures and flavors — crisp crust with silky mango curd — that’s both impressive and easy to prepare. Whether for a special occasion or a casual dessert, its refreshing taste and bright appearance make it a standout choice.
Mango Curd Tart Recipe
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- Author: Mia
- Total Time: 3 hours (includes chilling time)
- Yield: 1 9-inch tart
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Mango Curd Tart is a tropical twist on the classic tart, featuring a buttery shortbread crust filled with silky, vibrant mango curd and topped with whipped cream or meringue. Perfect for a summer dessert or special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 9 tbsp unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1–2 tbsp ice water
- 1 cup mango purée (from about 2 ripe mangoes)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3 large egg yolks
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp lime zest
- Optional: whipped cream or meringue for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, pulse flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg yolk and 1 tbsp ice water, pulsing until dough begins to come together. Add more water if needed.
- Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan evenly along bottom and sides. Chill for 15 minutes in the freezer.
- Prick crust with fork and bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
- For the mango curd, blend mango purée, sugar, egg yolks, eggs, and salt in a medium saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 10–12 minutes).
- Remove from heat, whisk in butter, lime juice, and zest until smooth.
- Pour curd into cooled tart shell and chill for at least 2–3 hours or until set.
- Top with whipped cream or meringue if desired before serving.
Notes
- Use ripe mangoes for best flavor in the purée.
- Make the curd a day ahead for easier assembly.
- Ensure tart shell is completely cooled before adding curd to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of tart)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
