Introduction

Milk Tart (or Melktert in Afrikaans) is a beloved South African dessert featuring a delicate custard filling in a crisp pastry crust. This version simplifies the traditional recipe while maintaining its iconic creamy texture and subtle cinnamon flavor. With its light sweetness and comforting vanilla notes, Milk Tart has been a staple at South African tea tables for generations.

Crust Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (115g) cold butter, cubed
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 tbsp ice water

Filling Ingredients

• 2 cups (500ml) whole milk
• 1 tbsp (15g) butter
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla essence
• ¼ cup + 2 tbsp (85g) sugar
• 1 tbsp (8g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp (8g) cornflour (maizena)
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

1. In a food processor, pulse flour and cold butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
2. Add sugar and egg yolk, pulsing to combine.
3. Gradually add ice water until dough comes together.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan, prick base with fork, and chill for 30 minutes.
5. Blind bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes until lightly golden.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a saucepan, combine milk and butter. Heat until just boiling, then remove from heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk egg, vanilla, and sugar until pale.
3. Sift in flour and cornflour, whisking until smooth.
4. Slowly pour hot milk into egg mixture while whisking constantly.
5. Return mixture to saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until thickened (about 5 minutes).

3. Assemble and Chill

1. Pour filling into prepared crust and smooth the surface.
2. Dust generously with cinnamon.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) to set completely.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled with coffee or tea
• Garnish with fresh berries for contrast
• Perfect for afternoon tea or as a light dessert

Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, infuse milk with a cinnamon stick while heating
• Ensure constant stirring when cooking filling to prevent lumps
• The tart sets better when chilled overnight
• Traditional versions sometimes sprinkle cinnamon in decorative patterns

Conclusion

This Milk Tart recipe captures the essence of South African home baking – simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. The contrast between the crisp pastry and velvety custard, accented by aromatic cinnamon, makes this dessert unforgettable. Whether maintaining tradition or discovering it for the first time, this Melktert promises to become a treasured recipe in any kitchen.