A Delicate Pear and Almond Tart for a Lighter Holiday Dessert

What kind of recipe is it?

The Lighter Holiday Dessert Tart is a delightful and festive dish that combines a buttery, flaky crust with a light and creamy filling, often made with fresh fruit or a luscious custard.

Its special features include lower sugar content and healthier ingredient choices, making it a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

This tart is perfect for health-conscious dessert lovers and families looking to enjoy a festive treat without the heaviness of traditional sweets, making it an ideal addition to holiday celebrations.

Sale

Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...

The Original Pro Chopper – TikTok’s favorite veggie slicer and one of the top-rated kitchen gadgets of the season! Simple to use, set up, and...

Ingredients

Here is a detailed table of the ingredients needed for the Lighter Holiday Dessert Tart:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups
Unsalted butter	½ cup (1 stick)
Powdered sugar	¼ cup
Salt	¼ teaspoon
Ice water	3 to 4 tablespoons
Cream cheese, softened	8 oz (1 package)
Greek yogurt	1 cup
Honey or maple syrup	¼ cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Fresh fruit (e.g., berries, kiwi, or peaches)	2 cups (sliced or diced)
Optional: Fresh mint leaves	For garnish (as needed)

This ingredient list incorporates healthier substitutes while maintaining great flavor and festive appeal.

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...

Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get fresh shredded cheese, cutting the food...

Cooking Steps

Prepare the workspace by measuring out all ingredients (mise en place). Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and place the oven rack in the middle position.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour, ¼ cup (30 g) powdered sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
Cut ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter into small pieces and add to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Slowly add 3 to 4 tablespoons (45-60 ml) ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help firm the butter for a flakier crust.
Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out to fit a 23 cm (9-inch) tart pan, approximately 5 mm (¼ inch) thick. Press the dough into the pan, trimming any excess.
Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. Place a piece of parchment paper over the crust and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
Remove the crust from the oven, discard the parchment and weights, and let it cool for about 10 minutes. The crust should feel firm to the touch and have a light golden color.
In a mixer or large bowl, blend 8 oz (227 g) softened cream cheese until smooth. Add 1 cup (240 ml) Greek yogurt, ¼ cup (60 ml) honey or maple syrup, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined and creamy.
Pour the cream cheese mixture into the cooled tart shell, spreading evenly with a spatula.
Top the tart with 2 cups (roughly 300 g) of fresh fruit, arranging them aesthetically on the creamy layer. Use a mix of berries, kiwi, and/or peaches for color and flavor.
Optional: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for added color and aroma.
Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to set the filling.
Prior to serving, slice the tart into wedges. The filling should be firm yet creamy, and the crust should be crisp. Enjoy your festive lighter holiday dessert tart!

Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...

💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage methods. Never worry about spoilage ever...

Variations

Nutty Crust Variation: Substitute 1 cup (125 g) almond flour for half of the all-purpose flour to create a gluten-free, nutty flavor in the crust.
Cocoa Bliss: Add ¼ cup (25 g) unsweetened cocoa powder to the crust mixture for a chocolatey twist; pair with fresh raspberries for a decadent dessert.
Dairy-Free Delight: Replace the cream cheese with 8 oz (227 g) dairy-free cream cheese and the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative for a completely dairy-free option.
Seasonal Citrus: Incorporate the zest of 1 orange or lemon into the cream cheese mixture, and top the tart with winter citrus fruits such as blood oranges and grapefruit for a revitalizing seasonal take.

Sale

Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...

Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast

Tips on plating and presentation

Although plating might seem like a minor detail, it can elevate your Lighter Holiday Dessert Tart to a stunning centerpiece.

Start with a clean, vibrant plate to make the tart pop.

Add fresh pear slices or toasted almonds on top for texture.

A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds that final touch, making your dessert not only delicious but also visually appealing!

Sale

Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...

100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches

What other dishes can I pair it with?

If you’re looking to create a harmonious holiday meal, pairing your Lighter Holiday Dessert Tart with complementary dishes can enhance the entire dining experience.

Consider serving it alongside a light salad with citrus vinaigrette or a savory cheese platter. A roasted vegetable medley balances the sweetness beautifully, while a subtle seafood dish can also provide a delightful contrast to the tart’s flavors.

Sale

Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...

𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units (oz/lb:oz/fl'oz/g/mL), tare function, and includes 2 AAA...

What drinks can I pair it with?

To elevate your Lighter Holiday Dessert Tart, pairing it with the right drinks can make all the difference.

I love serving it alongside a crisp, dry Riesling, as its acidity balances the tart’s sweetness beautifully.

If you’re looking for something non-alcoholic, try a spiced apple cider—it complements the warm flavors nicely.

Both options enhance the overall experience wonderfully!

Sale

Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...

Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced, highly accurate technology with 1-2 seconds...

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Tart in Advance?

Absolutely, I’ve made this tart ahead of time! I usually bake it, let it cool completely, and store it in the fridge. It tastes just as delicious after a day or two.

How Long Does the Tart Last in the Fridge?

The tart lasts about three to four days in the fridge. I usually cover it tightly to keep it fresh. Trust me, it tastes even better after resting a day or two! Enjoy every slice!

Can I Freeze the Tart?

Yes, you can freeze the tart! I recommend wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

What Type of Almond Flour Should I Use?

I’d recommend using blanched almond flour for the best texture. It creates a light, delicate consistency that works beautifully in desserts, enhancing the flavor without being too grainy. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Are There Any Nut-Free Alternatives?

Yes, I often use equal parts of oat flour or coconut flour as nut-free alternatives. They work well in baking, giving a unique flavor and texture while allowing me to enjoy delicious desserts without nuts.