The Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe combines tangy goat cheese, fresh herbs, and buttery pastry to create a scrumptious appetizer or light meal that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. Inspired by Mary Berry’s signature balance of simplicity and sophistication, these tarts deliver gourmet flavor with minimal fuss.
Why You’ll Love the Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Mary Berry’s home-cooking ethos brings elegance without complexity. The Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe uses simple ingredients and basic techniques to produce tarts that taste like they belong in a countryside patisserie. They’re perfect for entertaining, lunch, or snack time—and you can customize them with seasonal toppings.
Ingredients for Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ready-made shortcrust pastry | 320g (11 oz) | Makes prep quick and easy |
| Soft goat cheese | 150g (5 oz) | Classic tangy base |
| Eggs | 2 medium | To bind and enrich the filling |
| Double cream | 100ml (3½ fl oz) | Adds creaminess |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tsp | Or rosemary for aromatic flavor |
| Honey | 2 tsp | Optional drizzle for sweetness |
| Black pepper | Generous grind | Balances the tanginess |
| Mixed salad or herbs | To garnish | Adds freshness and color |
Step-by-Step: Build the Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Prepare the Pastry Cases
Roll pastry lightly on a floured surface and line 8 tartlet tins. Trim edges neatly to ensure even baking.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, whisk eggs and cream, then fold in goat cheese broken into small pieces, fresh thyme, and a crack of black pepper for gentle seasoning.
Assemble and Bake
Divide filling evenly among pastry cases. Bake at 190 °C (170 °C fan) for 20–25 minutes until golden and just set.
Finish and Serve
Drizzle warm tarts with honey and scatter with extra thyme or a light salad garnish for color and bite.
Serving Suggestions for Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
| Occasion | Serving Idea |
|---|---|
| Cocktail party | Mini tarts with mixed herb garnish |
| Light lunch | Pair with crisp salad and vinaigrette |
| Casual supper | Add roasted vegetables or crispy bacon |
| Picnic or buffet | Pack cold with herb garnish and napkins |
Tips to Perfect Your Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Blind bake pastry for 5 minutes | Prevents soggy bottom |
| Don’t overmix filling | Prevents runny texture, keeps flakiness |
| Use cold pastry | Helps edges retain shape during baking |
| Cool before drizzling honey | Keeps honey from burning off |
Variations on the Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
- Caramelized Onion & Thyme: Stir in sweet caramelized onions for a richer base.
- Tomato & Basil: Add sliced cherry tomatoes and basil for a Caprese twist.
- Pesto & Pine Nuts: Swirl in a spoonful of pesto and scatter roasted pine nuts on top.
Common Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
- Soggy pastry: Blind bake first and drain any liquid from filling ingredients.
- Cracked tarts: Avoid overbaking—tarts should be lightly wobbly at center when removed.
- Too tangy: Adjust goat cheese ratio or add a touch more cream for balance.
Nutrition Overview (Per Tartlet Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Sugar | 2g (plus honey) |
External Inspiration
Love Mary Berry’s simple elegance? Explore more inspired dishes at BBC Good Food’s tart collection. These recipes pair beautifully with the Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe and offer creative variations.
FAQs About Mary Berry Goat Cheese Tarts Recipe
Can I make these ahead?
Yes, bake and cool them, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Warm gently in the oven before serving.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze before drizzling honey, then reheat from frozen at 180 °C for 10–12 minutes.
Can I use vegan pastry or cheese?
Yes—choose vegan alternatives and swap cream with plant-based options.
What about serving them cold?
They taste great cold too—just omit the honey glaze or stick to lighter toppings.
Can I double the recipe?
Sure—just note baking time may increase slightly if using larger tart tins.
