The Ultimate Vegan & Gluten-Free Blueberry Tart: A Dairy-Free Delight
This **Blueberry Tart Recipe** offers a truly delightful dessert experience that caters to a variety of dietary preferences without compromising on taste. It’s completely dairy-free and features a lusciously creamy, no-bake vegan filling. The foundation of this exquisite tart is a gluten-free crust that’s incredibly simple to prepare, all crowned with a vibrant array of fresh blueberries for what we confidently call tart perfection!
This post has been updated from the original dated July 1, 2020
[feast_advanced_jump_to]
Welcome to tart season! Or perhaps, it’s always tart season when you have a recipe this good. I’m making a bold statement here, proclaiming this as The Best Blueberry Tart Recipe you’ll ever encounter. And I stand by that wholeheartedly, with just one small caveat: if you decide to swap out the blueberries for raspberries and create a Raspberry Tart using this same method, my allegiance just might waver slightly! Both are truly irresistible.
This year, I’m particularly obsessed with blueberries. My yard boasts two magnificent blueberry shrubs, overflowing with these low-calorie, nutrient-dense, and beautifully vibrant little orbs. They’re not just a feast for the eyes but a powerhouse of nutrition. While my blueberry crumble bars are on a constant repeat, this incredible homemade blueberry tart recipe has quickly risen to become the reigning favorite in our home. Its simple elegance and fresh flavors make it an instant classic.
Beyond their stunning color, there’s so much to adore about these tiny gems. The deep indigo hue alone is outstanding, in my humble opinion, but their nutritional profile is even more impressive. Blueberries are not just pretty faces; they are packed with goodness that contributes to overall health and wellness, making this tart a delicious treat you can feel good about enjoying.
Unlocking the Power of Blueberries: Their Incredible Health Benefits
Blueberries are often lauded as a “superfood,” and for good reason. Incorporating these small, flavorful berries into your diet, especially in a delicious healthy blueberry tart, can offer a wide array of health advantages:
- Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: Blueberries are nature’s candy, offering a sweet and satisfying taste without a heavy calorie count. Despite their low caloric density, they are bursting with essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, making every bite a nutrient-rich experience.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: These berries are celebrated for their exceptionally high antioxidant content, particularly flavonoids. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting your body from damage by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can contribute to aging and diseases like cancer. This makes our blueberry tart a powerful, delicious ally for your cellular health.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Chronic inflammation is at the root of many modern diseases. Blueberries possess potent anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body, supporting overall health and well-being.
- Rich in Potassium and Vitamin C: Blueberries are an excellent source of Vitamin C, vital for immune function and skin health, and potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and nerve function. Enjoying this fresh blueberry tart provides a tasty way to boost these important nutrients.
- Well-Earned “SUPERFOOD” Status: Given their impressive nutritional profile, high antioxidant levels, and protective qualities, blueberries truly deserve their superfood title. They are a small fruit with a monumental impact on health.
- May Lower Risk for Heart Disease and Cancer: Regular consumption of blueberries has been linked to a reduced risk of various chronic diseases. Their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds contribute to heart health by improving cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and their ability to combat oxidative stress may help prevent certain types of cancer.
Customizing Your Homemade Blueberry Tart: A World of Possibilities
Crafting the perfect blueberry tart allows for wonderful customization to suit your preferences and occasion. Here’s a closer look at the key elements you can adjust to make this healthy blueberry tart truly your own:
- SIZE: The first decision is often about scale. Will you bake a grand, full-size tart – perhaps round, square, or rectangular, depending on your tart pan – or opt for charming mini blueberry tarts? Full-size tarts are wonderful for sharing at gatherings and make a stunning centerpiece. Mini tarts, on the other hand, are fantastic for portion control, individual servings, or a fun party spread. And don’t worry if you don’t own a fancy tart pan with a removable bottom; we have creative ideas for you, so stay tuned!
- CRUST: The crust is paramount for both taste and presentation. In a tart, unlike a pie, the crust’s structure is key, especially when removing it from the pan. You need a crust that is sturdy yet tender, one that holds its shape beautifully while offering a satisfying texture and flavor. Our vegan and gluten-free crust is designed for exactly this purpose, ensuring your tart looks as good as it tastes.
- FILLING: While I adore a creamy filling, I avoid dairy, and sometimes even cashew cream feels like too much effort or isn’t suitable for everyone. That’s why discovering a truly remarkable dairy-free and nut-free alternative was a game-changer! Can you guess the secret ingredient before you read all about it below? It creates a wonderfully smooth and rich texture that perfectly complements the crust and berries.
- BLUEBERRIES: Naturally, fresh blueberries are the shining stars of this blueberry tart recipe! Their inherent sweetness, balanced by a delightful tang, creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. However, the beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries or blackberries, use a colorful combination, or even incorporate slices of seasonal stone fruit. When peaches are in season, for instance, they are absolutely AMAZING in this recipe, offering a different, yet equally delicious, twist.
The Revolutionary Tart Crust: No Sugar, No Oil, No Flour – Seriously!
Prepare to be amazed by this incredible tart crust! It has the nostalgic charm of a classic graham cracker crust, yet it’s elevated to a whole new level of deliciousness and health. The secret to its natural sweetness and perfect texture lies in thoughtfully chosen ingredients.
Instead of refined sugars, we rely on the natural, caramel-like sweetness of Medjool dates. These soft, luscious fruits not only provide all the sweetness you need but also act as a phenomenal natural binder, eliminating the need for any added oils. For an extra boost of healthy fats and a delightful nutty flavor, walnuts are incorporated, providing a rich source of omega-3s, which are crucial for brain and heart health. The blend of almond flour and old-fashioned oats ensures this crust is entirely gluten-free, offering a wonderful texture that’s both slightly crumbly and holds together beautifully. It’s a truly winning combination that proves good taste and exceptional nutrition are not mutually exclusive – you can have both in every single bite!
Crafting Your Perfect Vegan and Gluten-Free Tart Crust: Step-by-Step
Making this healthy blueberry tart crust is surprisingly straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor and texture. Follow these simple steps for a flawless result:
- Gather Ingredients: In the bowl of your food processor, combine the almond flour, pitted Medjool dates, walnuts, old-fashioned oats, baking soda, fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt. Ensure your dates are soft; if they’re a bit firm, you might soak them in warm water for 10 minutes beforehand, then drain well.
- Process to Perfection: Pulse and process the ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and form a crumbly mixture. The key is to achieve a consistency where the “dough” holds together when you pinch a small amount between your fingers. If it feels too dry, add a tablespoon or two of water, one at a time, and process again until it reaches the desired stickiness.
- Form the Crust: Press the crumbly mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of your tart pan. An 8-inch or 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom works best for easy removal. Ensure an even thickness for uniform baking.
- Pre-Bake: Bake the crust in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit (175°C) oven for just 10 minutes. This short baking time helps set the crust, making it firm and ready to hold your creamy filling without becoming soggy.
Clever Hacks: How to Make Mini Tarts Without a Specialty Pan
Mini blueberry tarts are a brilliant idea when you’re looking for built-in portion control, a fun individual dessert, or if you simply don’t want the temptation of an entire full-size tart all to yourself! The best part is, you likely already have the “special equipment” needed right in your kitchen.
Standard canning lids with their rings are absolutely ideal for creating adorable mini berry tarts. Simply insert the flat lids upside down into their metal rings – this creates a perfect mini tart mold. Once you’ve prepared your delicious gluten-free crust mixture in the food processor, you can either press it into a full-sized tart pan or, for the mini versions, divide the mixture into 12 equal portions. Press each portion firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the individual canning lids. Whether you go big or small, there’s no need to grease the tart pans or canning lids thanks to the natural oils in the walnuts and dates. Once baked and cooled slightly, you can simply push from the bottom of the removable lid, and your perfectly formed tart shells will pop right out, ready for filling!
The Secret to a Creamy, Dairy-Free, and Nut-Free Tart Filling: Silken Tofu!
Did you manage to guess the secret ingredient when I mentioned a dairy-free filling that doesn’t rely on cashews? The answer is humble yet magnificent: silken tofu! This versatile ingredient is an absolute dream to work with, especially for creating smooth, creamy textures in desserts. Its inherently neutral flavor means it acts as a perfect canvas, allowing other ingredients to shine and giving you complete control over the final taste profile.
With just a few simple additions – a touch of vanilla for warmth, pure maple syrup for natural sweetness, and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a delightful tang – silken tofu undergoes an incredible transformation. It becomes a rich, creamy, yogurt-like filling that is not only unbelievably delicious but also incredibly satisfying. I love this filling so much that I often make extra just to enjoy with my homemade granola. It’s simply DELISH!
Beyond its fantastic taste and texture, this silken tofu filling also boasts impressive nutritional credentials. Tofu is a powerhouse of plant-based protein, providing all nine essential amino acids your body needs for optimal function. It’s also a valuable source of plant-based iron, crucial for energy and oxygen transport, and calcium, which is vital for bone health. So, every decadent spoonful of this dairy-free tart contributes not just to your enjoyment, but also to your well-being.
- Prepare Tofu: Gently remove the silken tofu from its package and place it on a few layers of paper towels to drain excess water. It’s important to be gentle; **do not attempt to press** silken tofu like firmer varieties, as it will completely fall apart. The goal is simply to absorb surface moisture.
- Blend to Creaminess: Transfer the drained tofu to the bowl of a food processor. Add the fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Process the mixture until it is perfectly smooth and wonderfully creamy, with no lumps remaining. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated.
Once your gluten-free tart crust has finished baking, let it cool completely on a wire rack – still in the tart pan – for at least 10 minutes, or until it’s cool enough to handle comfortably. Carefully remove the outer ring of the tart pan, leaving the tart bottom in place for stability. This makes transferring and serving much easier.
Now comes the most exciting part: filling and decorating! Generously scoop the velvety vegan cream filling into your prepared tart crust (or individual mini tart shells). Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling evenly, creating a smooth, inviting surface. Then, the real fun begins – decorate with your beautiful fresh blueberries or any combination of berries or sliced fruit you desire. This is a fantastic activity for kids, or simply for the young at heart, as everyone loves creating their edible masterpiece! The vibrant colors of the fruit against the creamy white filling make for a truly stunning presentation.
I must admit, I’m having a serious love affair with blueberries right now, especially when I can pick them fresh from my own backyard! This healthy blueberry tart isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile for various occasions. Imagine decorating this tart with a mix of red and blue fruits – perhaps vibrant raspberries or sliced strawberries alongside the blueberries – for a stunningly patriotic dessert. It would be absolutely perfect for celebrations like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Flag Day, Veterans Day, or truly any summer gathering. The combination of fresh berries and a creamy, light filling makes it a refreshing and crowd-plepleasing treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
So, now that you have my ultimate fresh blueberry tart recipe, complete with a dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free approach, you’re left with one final, delightful decision to make. Will you embark on the creation of an impressive, full-sized blueberry tart, perfect for sharing and making a statement? Or will you opt for the charming convenience and built-in portion control of individual mini berry tarts? Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed a healthy, delicious, and satisfying dessert that will impress both your taste buds and your guests!
More Healthy Blueberry Recipes to Love
- Blueberry Crumble Bars
- Almond Flour Blueberry Blender Muffins
- Fruit Crisp with Gluten-free Crumble Topping
- Blueberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins–Glutenfree
Did you know commenting and rating recipes is one of the best ways to support your favorite food bloggers? If you made this recipe, please consider a five-star rating below and leave a comment. Also, please share your photos on Instagram by tagging me @dkhealthcoach and using the hashtag #debraklein
📖 Recipe
Blueberry Tart Recipe
Rate this Recipe
Pin Recipe
Equipment
-
Offset spatula
-
Jelly Roll Pan
-
9 inch Tart and Quiche Pan
-
Measuring Cups and Spoons
-
Food Processor
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup almond flour
- ¾ cup old fashioned oats
- ½ cup walnuts
- 8 medjool dates pitted
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Filling
- 16 oz. silken tofu drained
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 pint fresh blueberries*
Instructions
-
MAKE CRUST: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine all crust ingredients in a food processor until the mixture is crumbly but holds together when pinched between your fingers. You might need to add 1-2 Tablespoons of water, one at a time, if the mixture is too dry to stick. It won’t form a solid ball of dough but should be firm enough to press into shape. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of an 8-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. If making mini tarts, divide the crust mixture into 12 equal portions and press into individual mini pans or canning lids. Bake for 10 minutes until firm.
-
MAKE FILLING: Gently drain the silken tofu on paper towels to remove excess moisture. Place the drained tofu, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract into the bowl of a food processor. Process until the mixture is completely smooth and wonderfully creamy.
-
Let the baked tart crust cool completely on a wire rack, remaining in its tart pan for stability. Once cooled, carefully remove the outer rim of the tart pan, leaving the crust on the tart bottom for support. If you’re using mini tins, also carefully remove the bottom of each tin, allowing the tart shell to rest on your serving platter. Scoop the creamy filling into the prepared crust(s) and use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly.
-
TOP: Artfully arrange fresh blueberries (or your chosen combination of other berries or fruit slices) evenly on top of the creamy filling.
-
Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This allows the filling to set beautifully and the flavors to meld.
-
Store the finished tart in the fridge until you’re ready to enjoy it. The tart will remain delicious and visually appealing for up to 5 days, though the crust may begin to soften slightly after 3 days.
Notes
PRO TIP FOR MINI TARTS: If you’re opting for mini tarts and don’t need a large batch, you can easily adjust the recipe. Prepare just half or even a third of the crust and filling ingredients, which will yield approximately 4-6 delightful mini tarts.
VERSATILE TOPPING OPTIONS: While fresh blueberries are fantastic, feel free to get creative with your topping! Any type of fresh berries (raspberries, blackberries, sliced strawberries) or thinly sliced seasonal fruits (like peaches or plums in summer) will work wonderfully and add a different flavor dimension to this healthy dessert.
Nutrition
Note
The nutrition calculations were done using online tools. To obtain the most accurate representation of the nutritional information in any given recipe, you should calculate the nutritional information with the actual ingredients you used. You are ultimately responsible for ensuring that any nutritional information is accurate, complete and useful.
Perfect Pairings: Suggestions to Go with Your Delicious Tart
While this blueberry tart is undeniably a show-stopping dessert on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of savory dishes. Consider these lighter, fresh options to create a balanced and satisfying meal:
- Vegan Kale Caesar Salad: A crisp and vibrant salad provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet tart.
- Hearty Black Bean Veggie Burgers: A satisfying main course that keeps the meal plant-based and flavorful.
- Grilled Potato Salad: A warm and smoky side dish that adds a unique twist to your meal.
- Light Summer Pasta Salad: A fresh and easy pasta salad complements the seasonality of the tart.