Blood Orange Earl Grey Tarts are an exquisite dessert that marries delicate floral notes with vibrant citrus. These elegant mini tarts feature a smooth Earl Grey-infused pastry cream, topped with jewel-like blood orange segments and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios. Visually captivating and richly flavored, they’re the perfect treat for afternoon tea, brunch, or a sophisticated gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These tarts are a beautiful balance of flavors and textures: buttery tart shells, silky tea-infused cream, juicy blood oranges, and crunchy pistachios. The use of Earl Grey tea adds a refined floral undertone that pairs wonderfully with the citrusy brightness of the blood oranges. They are not only a delight to eat but also a stunning centerpiece for any elegant table setting.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

cake flour
cornstarch
unsalted butter
fine sea salt
granulated sugar
large egg yolks
whole milk
Earl Grey tea bags
pure vanilla extract
blood oranges, peeled and segmented
roasted pistachios, chopped
fine sea salt (for topping)

directions

Make the Tart Shells: Combine cake flour, cornstarch, salt, and butter until the mixture is crumbly. Press into mini tart pans and refrigerate for 20 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
Infuse the Milk: Heat the milk until steaming, then steep the Earl Grey tea bags in the milk for 10 minutes. Discard the tea bags.
Prepare the Pastry Cream: Whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until pale. Whisk in the cornstarch, then gradually add the warm tea-infused milk while whisking. Return to the stove and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow to cool completely.
Assemble the Tarts: Spoon the cooled pastry cream into the cooled tart shells.
Garnish: Top with blood orange segments in a decorative pattern, sprinkle with chopped pistachios and a pinch of sea salt. Chill until ready to serve.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 mini tarts
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Calories: 310 kcal per tart

Variations

Citrus Blend: Mix blood oranges with grapefruit or cara cara oranges for a colorful assortment.
Nut-Free: Omit pistachios or replace with toasted coconut flakes for a similar crunch.
Chocolate Base: Add a layer of melted dark chocolate to the tart shell before adding the pastry cream.
Lavender Infusion: Swap Earl Grey for lavender-infused milk for a floral twist.
Mini Tartlets: Use smaller molds for bite-sized versions suitable for canapé platters.

storage/reheating

Store assembled tarts in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. They are best served chilled. The tart shells and pastry cream can be made in advance and stored separately—refrigerate the cream and keep the shells at room temperature in an airtight container.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, but cake flour gives the crust a more delicate, tender texture. Use all-purpose flour if needed.

Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart shells and pastry cream a day ahead and assemble just before serving.

Can I substitute the blood oranges?

Yes, other citrus fruits like grapefruit, tangerines, or cara cara oranges work well.

Is it necessary to chill the tart shells before baking?

Chilling helps prevent the dough from shrinking and ensures a crisp texture.

Can I use loose-leaf Earl Grey tea?

Yes, use about 2 teaspoons per tea bag for an equivalent amount.

How thick should the pastry cream be?

It should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned into the tart shells, similar to pudding.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Whole milk provides the creamiest texture, but 2% milk can be used for a lighter version.

What’s the best way to segment the blood oranges?

Use a sharp paring knife to remove the peel and pith, then cut between the membranes to release the segments.

Are these tarts freezer-friendly?

It’s best not to freeze the assembled tarts as the citrus may become watery. However, the tart shells can be frozen.

Can I add sweetener to the pastry cream?

The sugar in the recipe is typically sufficient, but you can adjust it to taste.

Conclusion

Blood Orange Earl Grey Tarts are a show-stopping dessert that combines the elegance of tea-time fare with bold, refreshing flavors. With their floral-infused cream, vivid citrus topping, and nutty crunch, these tarts are both visually and gastronomically delightful. Perfect for special occasions or refined everyday indulgence, they’re a delicious way to impress and enjoy.