Mary Berry’s Maids of Honour pastries are perfect for afternoon tea or special events. The recipe makes at least two dozen, ideal for sharing. It takes 30 minutes to prepare and 15-25 minutes to cook. Each tart has jam, creamy almond filling, and delicate puff pastry.
Each pastry has about 347 calories, striking a good balance between taste and indulgence. You can keep these pastries at room temperature for a day or two. For the best freshness, store them in the fridge. They’re lovely when cool, maybe with some jam or sauce on the side.
Maids of Honour Pastries are a classic in British desserts. They’re small tarts with sweet jam and a rich almond batter on top. Their complex making and great taste make them a favourite at traditional afternoon teas. They add a touch of British elegance to any gathering.
What are Maids of Honour Pastries?
These pastries are also known as Maids of Honour Tarts. They have a crisp shell filled with creamy, nutty goodness. While the recipe might change, the main parts stay the same. This balance of sweet and texture makes them perfect for events. They bring elegance and charm to the table.
Historical Background of Maid of Honour Tarts
The story of Maids of Honour Pastries begins in the 16th century at Richmond Palace. They were originally made for the royal court. This adds a royal touch to their history. Over the years, their design and fillings have changed. This reflects the evolving tastes in British history.
Famous chefs like Delia Smith have made these pastries even more popular. Today, they’re known for both their delicious taste and deep history. They symbolise the rich culinary tradition of Britain.
Mary Berry’s Maids of Honour pastries are simple yet delightful. Each ingredient is chosen with care to blend flavours and textures perfectly. Below, you’ll find the key ingredients needed for this beloved recipe.
Essential Ingredients List
1 pack of puff pastry ready rolled (320g)
150g curd cheese
40g caster sugar
Zest of 1 lemon
1 egg
1 egg yolk
20g ground almonds
2 tablespoons lemon curd
2 tablespoons raspberry jam
You can make 24 mini pastries with this recipe. For the best results, use a good cake tin. A 12-hole cupcake tin is ideal for baking in two goes. Start by preheating your oven to 200°C. Then bake for 15-25 minutes until they’re golden.
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to try different flavours, this recipe is quite flexible. For example, you can use apricot or strawberry jam instead of raspberry. If you’re not a fan of almonds, try vanilla for a more familiar taste. There’s also a gluten-free flour blend for those avoiding gluten.
These pastries offer a chance to experiment and discover new favourite versions.
Ingredient
Quantity
Notes
Puff Pastry
320g
Ready rolled for convenience
Curd Cheese
150g
Provides creaminess
Castor Sugar
40g
For sweetness
Lemon Zest
Zest of 1 lemon
Adds freshness
Eggs
1 whole egg + 1 yolk
For binding
Ground Almonds
20g
Enhances the texture
Lemon Curd
2 tablespoons
One of the filling options
Raspberry Jam
2 tablespoons
Alternative filling option
Step-by-Step Instructions for Mary Berry’s Recipe
Creating perfect Maids of Honour pastries needs detailed attention. This is from Pastry Preparation to the final bake. Here are the crucial Maids of Honour Recipe Steps for success.
How to Prepare the Pastry
Start by heating your oven to 190 degrees C (375 degrees F). Then, grease 12 tart tins to stop sticking. Roll your pastry dough on a surface dusted with flour. Cut out 12 circles that are a bit bigger than the tins. Fit them gently into the tins, making sure there are no gaps.
Filling the Tarts
Put a teaspoon of raspberry jam in each tart shell for flavour. For the filling, mix butter and sugar until it’s light. Add an egg, then mix in flour, baking powder, and almond extract. Fill each tart shell with a tablespoon of batter. This ensures they bake evenly.
Baking to Perfection
Put the tins in the oven and bake for around 20 minutes. Watch as the tarts rise. They should feel firm when they’re done. After baking, let them cool a bit. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before you serve them.
By following these Tart Baking Instructions, you’ll make delightful Maids of Honour pastries. For more tips on choosing jam, visit this link to improve your pastries.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pastries
Making perfect Maids of Honour pastries requires precision and focus. Effective baking tips can change your baking game, making sure every tart is perfect. Knowing what mistakes to avoid helps bakers improve their skills and make better pastries.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To get the best results, avoid these mistakes:
Overworking the pastry: This can make the pastry tough instead of flaky.
Using warm ingredients: Use cold butter to keep the pastry nice and cool.
Skipping the chilling period: Resting the pastry in the fridge before baking is crucial for great results.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas
Creativity is key when serving Maids of Honour pastries. Beautiful presentation makes them even more tempting. Try these serving ideas:
Dust the pastries with icing sugar for sweetness.
Pair them with tea for a classic taste.
Use edible flowers or fresh berries to decorate.
Serving Ideas
Description
Cream and Berries
Serve with whipped cream and fresh berries for colour.
Icing Sugar
A dusting of icing sugar adds sweetness and beauty.
Tea Pairing
Enjoy with a cup of tea for a perfect match.
Edible Flowers
Garnish with edible flowers for a fancy decoration.
Conclusion
The Mary Berry Maids of Honour Pastries are more than just a treat. They mix cultural history with cooking skill. They’re perfect for tea parties or get-togethers. With simple step-by-step instructions, anyone can make these tasty British pastries.
These pastries are great for special events or a quiet afternoon at home. They add a bit of class too. Whether you’re new to baking or already love it, trying Mary Berry’s recipe is fun and fulfilling. Adding other recipes, like an easy fruit cake, can make your baking adventure even better.
These pastries are more than just food; they’re about the joy of baking and sharing. So, get ready, get your ingredients, and show off your Maids of Honour pastries.
FAQ
What is a Maid of Honour pastry?
A Maid of Honour pastry is a tiny, jam-filled tart with rich almond topping. It’s often enjoyed during afternoon tea. These tarts come in a soft pastry shell and offer various flavours to choose from.
Where did the Maids of Honour pastries originate?
Maids of Honour pastries first appeared in the 16th century at Richmond Palace in England. They were made for royal attendants, showing a connection to luxury and elegance.
Can I make substitutions in Mary Berry’s recipe?
Indeed, you can switch raspberry jam for apricot or strawberry flavours. For a different twist, use vanilla instead of almond extract. You can also use gluten-free flour to make them.
How do I prevent my pastry from becoming tough?
To keep your pastry from getting hard, handle the dough gently. Use cold butter and keep the dough cool. This makes the pastry flaky, which is perfect for Maids of Honour pastries.
What should I serve with Maid of Honour pastries?
Present these pastries with a sprinkle of icing sugar and some fresh tea. Adding edible flowers or fresh berries can make them look even lovelier.
Is it necessary to use almond extract in the filling?
Almond extract adds to the filling’s taste, but it’s optional. You can skip it or use vanilla extract as a substitute.
How long should I bake the tarts for optimal results?
Bake the tarts at 190 degrees C (375 degrees F) for 20 minutes. They should rise and become firm.
