Mikado Tarts

why make this recipe

Mikado Tarts are a delightful dessert that combines creamy goodness with a crunchy base. This recipe is great for parties, family gatherings, or a special treat for yourself. The mix of flavors from the creamy filling and the crispy base topped with fresh fruits makes it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time.

how to make Mikado Tarts

Ingredients:

100 g Butter
50 g Mikado Milch-Schokolade
50 g Löffelbiskuit
50 g Zwieback
Juice of half a lemon
400 g Doppelrahm-Frischkäse
600 g Schmand
1 pinch of cinnamon
1 pinch of cardamom
Seeds from half a vanilla pod
70 g Sugar
7 sheets of gelatin
120 g Sugar (for caramel sauce)
200 g Whipped cream
20 g Butter (for caramel sauce)
1/2 tsp sea salt (for caramel sauce)
1 cup blackberries
3 fresh figs
6-9 Mikado sticks

Directions:

Melt the butter and let it cool. Meanwhile, crumble the Mikado sticks, Löffelbiskuit, and Zwieback. Put them in a freezer bag and crush them into fine crumbs using a rolling pin.
Mix the melted butter with the crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of ungreased dessert cups.
For the cream, squeeze the juice from the lemon. In a bowl, beat together the cream cheese, sour cream, cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla seeds, lemon juice, and sugar until smooth.
Soak the gelatin sheets in cold water for 5 minutes. Then, squeeze them dry and dissolve them in a pot over low heat. Remove the pot from heat and add 3 tablespoons of the cream mixture, stirring to combine.
Gradually add the rest of the cream mixture and stir until well blended. Pour this into the dessert cups and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
For the caramel sauce, caramelize 120 g sugar in a pot. Once it’s golden, add the cream, butter, and sea salt. Stir over low heat until you get a thick sauce. Be careful not to cook it too long, as it will thicken further as it cools.
Before serving, gently remove the tarts from their cups. Drizzle with caramel sauce and decorate with blackberries, figs, and Mikado sticks. Optionally, you can add some sprigs of rosemary for a nice touch.

how to serve Mikado Tarts

Serve the Mikado Tarts chilled, drizzled with caramel sauce. They look pretty when garnished with fresh blackberries, figs, and Mikado sticks. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect treat.

how to store Mikado Tarts

Store any leftover Mikado Tarts in the refrigerator. Cover them with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They are best enjoyed within two days.

tips to make Mikado Tarts

Let the butter cool completely before mixing it with the crumbs to avoid melting them.
Use fresh fruits for topping to enhance the flavor and appearance.
Make sure the gelatin is well-dissolved for a smooth cream texture.

variation (if any)

Feel free to mix up the fruits on top. You can use raspberries, strawberries, or even chocolate shavings for a different flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Mikado Tarts in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the tarts a day ahead. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q: What can I use instead of gelatin?
A: You can use agar-agar if you want a vegetarian option. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount.

Q: Can I make the crust gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the Löffelbiskuit and Zwieback with gluten-free cookies or crackers.