36

min
  • desserts

Fourier Fruit Tart

Welcome to today's mouth-watering creation: the Fourier Fruit Tart. This isn't your typical fruit tart; it's a culinary masterpiece inspired by the mathematical concept of Fourier series. Just as the Fourier series represents complex functions with simple sine and cosine waves, this tart will allow you to create a complex dessert with simple, everyday ingredients.

  • SERVES
    8 people
  • PREP TIME
    1 hour
  • Cook TIME
    35 minutes
Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 9 tbsp unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 6 egg yolks
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Assorted fresh fruit (strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, etc.)
Directions
  1. Begin by making the pastry crust. In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  2. Add the egg yolk and pulse until the dough comes together.
  3. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan. Chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the chilled tart shell for 20-25 minutes, or until golden. Allow to cool completely.
  5. While the tart shell is cooling, prepare the custard. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to steam.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla. Slowly add the hot milk to the egg mixture, whisking constantly.
  7. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard thickens.
  8. Pour the custard into the cooled tart shell and smooth the top with a spatula. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until set.
  9. Once the custard is set, arrange the fresh fruit on top in a pattern that represents a Fourier series. Slice and serve!

The Fourier Fruit Tart is a harmonious blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a complex and delightful dessert. It's a testament to the beauty of combining different elements to create something greater - just like in a Fourier series.

The idea behind this recipe was to create a dessert that not only tastes fantastic but also intrigues the mind. I wanted to design a tart that could inspire conversations about mathematics, science, and the incredible links between these fields and the culinary arts.

This tart stands out from the traditional fruit tarts because of its unique presentation. The fruit arrangement on top is inspired by the wave patterns in a Fourier series, making it a delight for both the palate and the eyes. This dessert is not only sweet, creamy, and fruity but it also carries a touch of mystery and intellectual charm. So, whether you're a math enthusiast, a food lover, or both, this Fourier Fruit Tart will definitely leave you wanting more.

desserts