These vegan jam tartlets feature a buttery shortcrust pastry filled with a simple homemade raspberry jam. Perfect for afternoon tea or as a delightful dessert, they come together in less than an hour using common pantry ingredients.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the pastry:

• 1 cup (150g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (15g) powdered sugar
• 7 tablespoons (100g) vegan block butter, cold and cubed
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water, if needed

For the raspberry jam:

• 1 cup (125g) fresh or frozen raspberries
• 2 tablespoons (30g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) water

Directions

1. Prepare the jam: In a small saucepan, combine raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Mix until the cornstarch dissolves. Place over medium heat, cooking until the berries soften. Mash them with a fork or use a handheld blender for a smoother consistency. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens, then remove from heat and let cool.
2. Make the pastry: In a food processor, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add the cold vegan butter and pulse until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. If the dough is too dry, add cold water, a little at a time, until it comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 15 minutes.
3. Assemble the tartlets: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼ inch (5mm) thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut circles and press them into a greased mini tart or muffin pan. Fill each pastry shell with a tablespoon of the prepared raspberry jam.
4. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry edges are golden. Allow the tartlets to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 135 kcal
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Sodium: 7mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 2g

Why Vegan Jam Tartlets Are Special

One of the best things about vegan jam tartlets is their versatility. Whether you prefer a traditional taste or want to experiment with more exotic jam flavors, these tartlets can be tailored to suit any preference. They require just a handful of basic pantry ingredients and come together relatively quickly, making them an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced bakers. The shortcrust pastry used in this recipe is a crucial element, providing the perfect base for the jam filling. Made without dairy or eggs, it relies on vegan butter for richness and a crumbly texture. Some variations incorporate almond flour or coconut oil to enhance the flavor and texture further. The jam, made with fresh or frozen fruit, sugar, and a thickening agent, is easy to prepare and can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of sweetness and tartness.

The Appeal of Homemade Vegan Pastry

Many people hesitate to make their own pastry, thinking it’s complicated or requires special skills. However, making vegan shortcrust pastry is actually quite simple. It only takes a few ingredients—flour, vegan butter, and a small amount of water—to create a dough that is easy to work with and bakes up beautifully. The key to success is keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough, which ensures a tender, flaky crust. Unlike store-bought pastry, which often contains preservatives and hydrogenated fats, homemade pastry is fresher and healthier. Plus, it allows for greater customization. If you prefer a slightly nutty flavor, you can substitute part of the flour with ground almonds or whole wheat flour. For a sweeter crust, adding a bit of powdered sugar enhances the flavor without making it overly sweet.

Choosing the Perfect Jam for Your Tartlets

The jam filling is the heart of these tartlets, and choosing the right fruit can make all the difference. Traditional flavors like raspberry, strawberry, and apricot work beautifully, but there’s no limit to what you can use. Homemade jam is ideal, as it allows you to control the sweetness and ensure that no unnecessary additives or artificial ingredients are included. If you prefer store-bought jam, look for brands that use natural ingredients and minimal processing. Some jams contain added pectin, which helps them set properly, but if you’re making your own, you can achieve the same effect by cooking the fruit with a little cornstarch or chia seeds.

The Perfect Occasion for Vegan Jam Tartlets

These tartlets are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering, a picnic, or a festive celebration, they’re sure to be a hit. Their small size makes them an excellent choice for tea parties and dessert buffets, as they can be served alongside other treats without overwhelming the palate. During the holiday season, they make great edible gifts. Simply pack them in a decorative box, and you have a thoughtful homemade present that’s both beautiful and delicious. You can also personalize them by using cookie cutters to create different shapes for the crust, such as hearts, stars, or flowers. For those with dietary restrictions, these tartlets are a great option. They are naturally dairy-free and egg-free, and by using gluten-free flour, they can also be made completely gluten-free. Additionally, they contain no animal products, making them suitable for vegans and those who prefer plant-based eating.

Health Benefits of Vegan Jam Tartlets

While these tartlets are a sweet treat, they have several health benefits compared to conventional pastries. The absence of dairy and eggs makes them lower in cholesterol, and using homemade jam ensures that you’re not consuming excessive amounts of refined sugar. If you want to make them even healthier, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. Another option is to use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar in the jam. Additionally, berries, which are often used in jam, are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health.

Storing and Serving Tips

One of the best things about these tartlets is their shelf life. Once baked, they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure they’re stored in a way that prevents the pastry from becoming soggy. When serving, you can enhance their presentation by dusting them with powdered sugar or drizzling a bit of melted dark chocolate over the top. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, they pair wonderfully with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream.

Conclusion

Vegan jam tartlets are an easy and delightful dessert that combines simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, these tartlets offer a fun and rewarding experience. Their versatility, ability to be made ahead, and suitability for different dietary preferences make them a fantastic addition to any recipe collection.