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Middle Eastern · Dessert · Easy

Rustic Pear Custard Tart

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Prep
30 min
Cook
55 min
Total
1 hr 25 min
Serves
10
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This Rustic Pear Custard Tart features a buttery homemade crust filled with fresh pears and silky vanilla custard. Baked until golden and lightly caramelized, it's an elegant dessert perfect for holidays, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break.

Published August 1, 2026

Rustic Pear Custard Tart
Pin Rustic Pear Custard Tart

Method

01

Make the Pastry

In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cold butter. Rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and mix until a soft dough forms. Avoid overworking the dough to keep the crust tender and flaky.

10 min
02

Chill the Dough

Shape the dough into a flat disc, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling relaxes the gluten and firms the butter, making the crust easier to handle and preventing shrinkage during baking.

30 min
03

Prepare the Custard

In a saucepan, whisk together the milk, sugar, and vanilla pudding mix. Cook over medium heat while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth custard. Remove from the heat and immediately whisk in the heavy cream until fully incorporated. Let the mixture cool for about 5 minutes, then whisk in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract until completely smooth.

15 min
04

Prepare the Pears

Peel the pears, cut them in half, and remove the cores. Slice each half into thin fan-shaped slices while keeping the bottom intact so the pears stay together. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice to prevent browning and add a bright, fresh flavor.

10 min
05

Assemble the Tart

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Press the chilled dough evenly into a 9-inch (23 cm) tart or springform pan, making sure to cover the bottom and slightly up the sides. Arrange the pears evenly over the crust, then slowly pour the vanilla custard around and over the pears until evenly distributed.

10 min
06

Bake

Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the custard is fully set and the top is lightly golden. The center should have just a slight wobble when gently shaken. If the edges begin browning too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil during the final 10–15 minutes.

55 min
07

Cool Before Serving

Allow the tart to cool completely in the pan before removing it. Chilling for at least one hour after cooling makes slicing much easier and gives the custard time to fully set.

1 hr
Serve chilled or at room temperature with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Garnish with fresh mint or thin pear slices for an elegant presentation.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use canned pears?

Fresh pears are highly recommended, but well-drained canned pear halves will also work.

Which pears are best?

Bartlett, Bosc, or Anjou pears all work beautifully.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes. The tart actually tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Can I use a pie crust instead?

Absolutely. Homemade or store-bought pie crust both work well.

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