Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat on June 18th for National Cherry Tart Day! This timeless celebration, existing for over two centuries, pays homage to the beloved sweet tart crafted from cherries, sugar, and pastry. Whether you opt to bake your own cherry tarts or pick them up from a bakery, this day promises an abundance of delicious treats.

History of National Cherry Tart Day

The National Cherry Tart Day likely evolved from a broader love for cherries and pastries. Tarts have a long history in baking, dating back to medieval Europe, and cherries have been a popular fruit in many cultures due to their sweet yet tart flavor. National Cherry Tart Day may have emerged as a way to highlight and enjoy this specific and beloved dessert.

What is a Cherry Tart?

A cherry tart is a type of open-faced pastry that has a buttery, flaky crust and a filling of sweet or sour cherries, often combined with sugar and sometimes a thickening agent like cornstarch. The tart is baked until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly and set. It can be served warm or cold and is sometimes topped with whipped cream or ice cream.

The main elements of a cherry tart include:

1. Crust: Made from flour, butter, sugar, and sometimes eggs, the crust is what gives the tart its signature flaky texture.
2. Cherry Filling: The filling is made from fresh or canned cherries, often mixed with sugar to balance the tartness and thickened with cornstarch or tapioca.
3. Optional Additions: Some cherry tarts are enhanced with almond extract, vanilla, or a crumble topping for added texture and flavor.

Celebrating National Cherry Tart Day

Here are some ways to celebrate National Cherry Tart Day:

1. Bake a Cherry Tart: The best way to celebrate is by baking your own cherry tart. Use fresh cherries if they are in season, or opt for frozen or canned cherries if you prefer. You can make a simple tart with a basic shortcrust pastry and cherry filling, or experiment with more elaborate recipes.

2. Visit a Bakery: Not in the mood to bake? Visit a local bakery and treat yourself to a freshly made cherry tart. Many bakeries offer seasonal fruit tarts, and you might find a cherry tart on their menu for the occasion.

3. Try Variations: If you want to experiment, try variations of cherry tarts such as mini tarts, galettes, or even a cherry pie if you're feeling creative. You can also explore different flavors by adding almond extract, lemon zest, or even chocolate.

4. Host a Tasting Party: Invite friends and family over for a cherry tart tasting party. Ask everyone to bring their own version of the dessert, and sample different recipes to see which one you like best.

5. Enjoy with Ice Cream: Pair your cherry tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The combination of the warm tart and cold ice cream makes for a delightful treat.

6. Share on Social Media: Post pictures of your cherry tart creations or your bakery finds on social media with the hashtag #NationalCherryTartDay to celebrate the day and inspire others to indulge in this delicious dessert.

Fun Facts About Cherries

• Cherries have been cultivated for thousands of years: The first recorded cultivation of cherries dates back to 300 BC in the region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea.
• There are two main types of cherries: Sweet cherries, such as Bing and Rainier, are commonly eaten fresh, while tart or sour cherries, such as Montmorency, are often used in baking.
• The U.S. is a major producer of cherries: The United States grows millions of pounds of cherries each year, with Michigan being the top producer of tart cherries.

The Importance of Cherries in Baking

Cherries are a beloved fruit in baking due to their versatile flavor, which can be sweet, tart, or a balance of both. They are used in a variety of baked goods, including pies, cakes, crumbles, and tarts. The bright red color of cherries also makes them visually appealing in desserts. Sour cherries, in particular, are often preferred for tarts because their tartness contrasts well with the sweetness of the pastry and added sugar.

The Tart Tradition

Tarts themselves are a part of the long-standing tradition of European pastries. They differ from pies in that they are typically open-faced and have a thicker, more structured crust. Cherry tarts can be made in various sizes, from individual portions to larger, family-sized desserts.

Health Benefits of Cherries

While indulging in a cherry tart is a treat, cherries themselves offer a variety of health benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants: Cherries contain high levels of antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support overall health.
• Boosts heart health: The potassium and polyphenols found in cherries contribute to heart health by supporting healthy blood pressure and reducing inflammation.
• Promotes better sleep: Tart cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep cycles.

Conclusion

National Cherry Tart Day is a delightful celebration of one of the most classic fruit desserts. Whether you enjoy it baked from scratch, purchased from a bakery, or even in a creative variation, this day provides a delicious reason to appreciate the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that cherries bring to a flaky pastry crust.