The Best Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Blueberry Tart Recipe: Easy & Delicious Vegan Dessert
Get ready to indulge in the most incredible Blueberry Tart Recipe that’s not only incredibly delicious but also completely dairy-free and vegan! This recipe features a wonderfully creamy, no-bake filling that rests perfectly on a simple, gluten-free crust. Crowned with an abundance of fresh, vibrant blueberries, this tart is the epitome of dessert perfection. Whether you’re navigating dietary restrictions or simply looking for a wholesome yet decadent treat, this tart delivers on all fronts, offering a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
This post has been updated from the original dated July 1, 2020, to bring you even more tips and delicious details!
It feels like tart season year-round when you have a recipe this good! I’m boldly proclaiming this as *the best* Blueberry Tart Recipe you’ll ever make, and I stand by that statement. Of course, if you decide to swap out the blueberries for their equally delightful cousin, the raspberry, and transform it into a Raspberry Tart, I might just shift my allegiance. This year, my garden is overflowing with plump, juicy blueberries, making them the undeniable stars of my kitchen. Beyond making my favorite blueberry crumble bars on repeat, this homemade blueberry tart has quickly become a beloved staple in our home, captivating everyone with its exquisite taste and surprisingly wholesome ingredients.
There’s so much to adore about these small, indigo gems, and their stunning color is just the beginning. Blueberries are not just visually appealing; they’re packed with goodness. Let’s delve into why these super-berries are a fantastic addition to your diet, and especially to this delightful tart:
Unveiling the Remarkable Health Benefits of Blueberries
- Nutrient-Dense & Low in Calories: Blueberries are a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Manganese, all while being incredibly low in calories. This makes them a guilt-free indulgence for any meal or snack.
- Packed with Antioxidants: These tiny fruits are renowned for their high antioxidant content, especially anthocyanins, which give them their characteristic blue hue. Antioxidants help protect your body from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases.
- Powerful Anti-inflammatory Properties: The antioxidants in blueberries also possess strong anti-inflammatory effects. Regular consumption can help reduce chronic inflammation in the body, a key factor in many chronic health conditions.
- Rich in Potassium and Vitamin C: Beyond general antioxidants, blueberries provide a significant boost of Vitamin C, vital for immune function and skin health, and Potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure and nerve function.
- SUPERFOOD Status – Fully Deserved!: Their impressive nutritional profile and myriad health benefits have earned blueberries their well-deserved superfood status. They truly are a nutritional superstar in the fruit world.
- Potential to Lower Risk of Chronic Diseases: Studies suggest that incorporating blueberries into your diet can help lower your risk for heart disease, certain types of cancer, and may even contribute to better brain health and memory.
- High in Fiber: Blueberries are also a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels, contributing to overall well-being.
Customizing Your Homemade Blueberry Tart: A World of Possibilities
One of the joys of making a homemade tart is the flexibility to customize it to your preference. Here are some key elements you can adapt to create your perfect blueberry tart experience:
- SIZE Matters: Decide whether you want a grand, full-size tart (round, square, or rectangle, depending on your tart pan) or adorable mini blueberry tarts. Mini tarts are not just cute; they’re excellent for portion control and individual servings, perfect for entertaining or solo treats. And don’t worry if you lack a tart pan with a removable bottom – I have some clever hacks for you coming up!
- The Foundation: A Perfect CRUST: The crust is paramount for a tart, especially when presentation is key. Unlike pies, tarts often showcase their beautiful edges, so a crust that holds its shape and is easy to remove from the pan is essential. Our vegan and gluten-free crust is designed for both stability and sensational flavor.
- The Heart of the Tart: The CREAMY FILLING: While I adore a creamy filling, traditional dairy options are off the table for me. And sometimes, even cashew cream doesn’t hit the spot. That’s why I embarked on a quest to find a truly revolutionary dairy-free and nut-free alternative. Can you guess the secret ingredient before you read all about it below? It’s a game-changer!
- The Shining Stars: The BLUEBERRIES: Fresh blueberries are the absolute stars of this recipe, offering a delightful burst of sweet and tangy flavor. However, don’t limit yourself! Feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries or blackberries, or even a mix. When in season, sliced stone fruits like peaches are an absolutely AMAZING alternative or addition, bringing their own unique sweetness and aroma.
Revolutionary Tart Crust: No Sugar, No Oil, No Flour – Seriously!
This tart crust is a revelation, reminiscent of a classic graham cracker crust but with an elevated, wholesome twist that’s undeniably superior. It’s naturally sweetened with Medjool dates, eliminating the need for any added sugar. These dates also do double duty, acting as a natural binder, which means no extra oil is required. For an added nutritional boost, walnuts contribute healthy omega-3 fatty acids and a delightful crunch. This winning combination creates a crust that is not only robust and flavorful but also completely vegan and gluten-free. It’s a testament to the fact that exceptional taste and excellent nutrition can, and absolutely should, go hand in hand!
Each ingredient in this crust plays a vital role:
- Almond Flour: Provides a fine, tender texture and a good source of healthy fats and protein, making it naturally gluten-free.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: Adds a chewy texture and extra fiber, contributing to the “graham cracker” feel. Ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.
- Walnuts: Introduce a rich, nutty flavor, healthy omega-3s, and a pleasant crunch that complements the other ingredients.
- Medjool Dates: The natural sweetener and binder. Their sticky texture holds everything together while imparting a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and activates the baking soda, contributing to a slightly lighter texture.
- Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the crust achieve a delicate crispness.
- Sea Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors, making the tart truly sing.
Crafting Your Perfect Vegan & Gluten-Free Tart Crust
Making this incredible crust is astonishingly simple, requiring minimal effort and no complex techniques. Here’s how you achieve tart crust perfection:
- Combine Ingredients: Begin by adding the almond flour, pitted Medjool dates, walnuts, old-fashioned oats, baking soda, fresh lemon juice, and sea salt into the bowl of your food processor.
- Process to Perfection: Pulse and process these ingredients until they are thoroughly combined and take on a crumbly texture. The mixture should be cohesive enough that when you pinch a small amount between your fingers, it holds together. If it seems too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of water, one at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Remember, it won’t form a smooth dough ball but will be pressable.
- Press into Pan: Firmly press the crumbly mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of your tart pan. Ensure it’s compact and even for a beautiful finish.
- Bake: Bake the crust in a preheated 350-degree Fahrenheit (175°C) oven for just 10 minutes. This short bake time is enough to set the crust and give it a lovely golden hue and a slightly crisp texture, making it the perfect foundation for your tart.
Clever Hack: How to Make Mini Tarts Without a Specialty Tart Pan
Mini blueberry tarts are not just adorable; they’re incredibly versatile! They’re fantastic for individual servings, perfect for parties, picnics, or simply when you want a controlled portion without the temptation of a whole full-sized tart. The best part? You likely already have the “special equipment” needed right in your kitchen!
Canning jar lids with their rings are an absolute game-changer for crafting individual mini berry tarts. Here’s the simple trick:
- Prepare the “Pans”: Simply insert the flat canning lids upside down into their metal rings. This creates a perfect mini tart mold with a removable bottom!
- Form the Crust: After preparing your crust mixture in the food processor (as described above), you have two options:
- For a large tart: Press the mixture into a standard tart pan.
- For mini tarts: Divide the crust mixture into 12 equal portions (or fewer, depending on how many mini tarts you want) and press each portion firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the individual canning lids.
- No Greasing Needed: One of the best features of this crust and method is that there’s no need to grease your tart pan or canning lids. The natural oils and binders in the crust prevent sticking.
- Easy Removal: Once baked and cooled, simply push gently from the bottom (the canning lid) and your mini tarts will pop right out, perfectly formed and ready to serve!
The Secret to a Heavenly Dairy-Free Tart Filling: Silken Tofu
Did you manage to guess the secret ingredient for our creamy, dairy-free, and cashew-free filling? If you thought “silken tofu,” you’re a culinary detective! Silken tofu is an absolute dream to work with in desserts. Its incredibly smooth texture and remarkably neutral flavor make it an ideal canvas, allowing you to infuse it with whatever flavors you desire. For this tart, a simple blend of vanilla, maple syrup, and fresh lemon juice is all it takes to transform the humble silken tofu into a luxuriously delicious, yogurt-like filling that’s rich, tangy, and utterly irresistible. In fact, I love it so much that I often make extra to enjoy with my homemade granola. It’s truly DELISH!
Here’s how effortlessly you can prepare this creamy wonder:
- Drain the Tofu (Gently!): Carefully remove the silken tofu from its package and place it on a couple of layers of paper towels to drain any excess liquid. Be extremely gentle; unlike firm tofu, you should not try to press silken tofu, as it will easily fall apart. Just let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to release its moisture naturally.
- Blend to Perfection: Transfer the drained tofu, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and vanilla extract into the bowl of your food processor. Process the mixture until it is completely smooth, luscious, and creamy, with no lumps remaining. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
Beyond its incredible taste and texture, this filling boasts impressive nutritional benefits. Tofu is celebrated for being a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids your body needs. It’s also an excellent plant-based source of iron and calcium, making this tart not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a nourishing option for your body.
Once your delectable crust has finished baking, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes on a wire rack, or until it’s cool enough to comfortably handle. If using a tart pan with a removable bottom, carefully remove the outer ring, leaving the tart on its bottom for stability and ease of transfer to a serving platter.
Now comes the truly fun and artistic part! Generously scoop the velvety vegan cream filling into your cooled tart shell (or into your mini tart crusts). Use an offset spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the filling evenly, creating a smooth, inviting surface. Then, unleash your creativity and decorate with your chosen berries or slices of fresh fruit. This step is a fantastic activity for kids, or simply for those of us who are kids at heart, turning dessert making into a delightful experience!
I must admit, I’m absolutely enchanted with blueberries lately, especially since I have the pleasure of picking them fresh from my own yard! This healthy tart offers wonderful versatility. Imagine decorating it with a medley of red berries, like raspberries and sliced strawberries, alongside the blueberries to create a stunning, patriotic dessert. It would be absolutely perfect for celebrations like the 4th of July, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Flag Day, Veterans Day, or any occasion that calls for a touch of red, white, and blue. The possibilities for festive decoration are truly endless!
So, now that you have all the insider tips and the complete fresh blueberry tart recipe at your fingertips, you’re faced with just one delightful decision: Will you bake a magnificent, full-sized blueberry tart to share (or keep all to yourself!), or will you craft an enchanting collection of mini berry tarts? Whichever you choose, this recipe promises a truly memorable dessert experience!
More Healthy Blueberry Recipes to Explore
- Blueberry Crumble Bars
- Almond Flour Blueberry Blender Muffins
- Fruit Crisp with Gluten-free Crumble Topping
- Blueberry Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins–Glutenfree
Did you know that leaving a comment and rating your favorite recipes is one of the best ways to support food bloggers? If you enjoyed making this healthy blueberry tart, please consider leaving a five-star rating below and sharing your thoughts in the comments. We’d also love to see your creations! Share your photos on Instagram by tagging me @dkhealthcoach and using the hashtag #debraklein!
📖 Recipe
Blueberry Tart Recipe
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Equipment
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Offset spatula
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Jelly Roll Pan
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9 inch Tart and Quiche Pan
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Measuring Cups and Spoons
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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
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MAKE CRUST: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine all crust ingredients in a food processor until crumbly. The mixture should hold together when pinched between your fingers. If it’s too dry, add 1-2 Tablespoons of water, one at a time, until it reaches a pressable consistency. Press firmly into the bottom and up the sides of an 8-inch tart pan. 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.
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MAKE FILLING: Gently drain silken tofu on paper towels for 10-15 minutes. Place the drained tofu, maple syrup, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in the bowl of your food processor. Process until completely smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.
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Let the baked crust cool on a wire rack while still in the tart pan. Once cool enough to handle, remove the outer rim of the tart pan (if applicable), leaving the tart bottom for stability. For mini tarts, carefully remove the bottom of the canning lid/tin, using a small offset spatula if needed, and let the tart shell rest on a serving platter. Scoop the creamy filling into the prepared crust(s) and use an offset spatula to spread it evenly.
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TOP: Evenly place fresh blueberries (or your chosen combination of other berries/fruit slices) on top of the creamy filling. Arrange them artfully for a beautiful presentation.
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Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving. This allows the filling to set completely and the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Store the finished tart in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. It will maintain its deliciousness for up to 5 days, though it’s best enjoyed within the first 3 days for optimal texture and freshness.
Notes
PRO TIP: If you’re opting for mini tarts but don’t need a dozen, you can easily make just half or a third of the crust and filling recipe to yield 4-6 delightful mini tarts.
TOPPING VARIATIONS: While fresh blueberries are fantastic, feel free to experiment with any type of fresh berries (raspberries, blackberries, strawberries) or sliced seasonal fruits like peaches, nectarines, or kiwi. A mix of colorful fruits can create a stunning visual and flavor profile!
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: What to Serve with Your Delicious Tart
While this blueberry tart is a showstopper all on its own, it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of light and fresh dishes, especially for a summer meal or special gathering. Here are some delightful suggestions to complement your tart:
- Vegan Kale Caesar Salad: A crisp, fresh, and zesty salad offers a perfect contrast to the tart’s sweetness.
- Hearty Black Bean Veggie Burgers: For a satisfying main course before dessert, these flavorful veggie burgers are an excellent choice.
- Smoky Grilled Potato Salad: A flavorful and robust side dish that complements the light sweetness of the tart.
- Refreshing Summer Pasta Salad: A vibrant and light pasta salad is an ideal companion for a warm-weather meal concluded with this tart.