When the weather’s cold and the couch is calling, sometimes you want a dessert that feels a little fancy… without actually doing anything fancy. Enter: the Single-Serve Berry Jam Tart—a gloriously flaky, sweet, and fruity bite of joy that looks like effort, but takes barely 20 minutes.
Best part? It’s made with pantry staples. And unlike the big ol’ tarts that languish in your fridge for a week, this one is made just for you—no waste, no sharing required.
🛒 Ingredients (makes 1 perfectly portioned tart)
- 1 small square of frozen puff pastry (about 10x10cm, or cut from a larger sheet)
- 1 tbsp berry jam (raspberry, strawberry, blueberry—whatever’s hiding at the back of the fridge)
- ½ tsp butter, melted (optional but fab)
- Pinch of cinnamon or lemon zest (optional bonus flavour)
- 1 tsp chopped nuts or coconut flakes (for extra crunch—optional)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten (for egg wash—optional)
🧁 Optional toppings: Greek yoghurt, cream, or ice cream to serve.
🔥 Instructions – 20 Minutes to Tart Glory
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan-forced). Line a small tray with baking paper.
- Score a 1cm border around the edge of the pastry (don’t cut all the way through). This helps create a puffy crust.
- Spread the jam in the centre, staying inside the scored border. Sprinkle on cinnamon or zest if using.
- Brush edges with egg wash or melted butter, and top with nuts or coconut flakes if you’re feeling extra.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and puffed, and the jam is bubbling.
- Cool slightly, then serve warm with a dollop of yoghurt, cream, or a scoop of ice cream if you’re feeling fancy (and you should).
💡 Why It Works for Winter Dessert Cravings
- No special equipment needed—just a tray and your oven.
- Perfect portion—no leftovers hanging around whispering your name at midnight.
- Versatile—use any jam you like, or even lemon curd or stewed fruit.
- Flaky, buttery pastry + sweet filling = instant mood lift.
🧊 Leftovers?
Technically, this makes one serving. But if you double up and accidentally make two, the extra one keeps well in an airtight container for a day. Reheat gently in the oven or eat at room temp with your morning coffee (no judgment).
🔁 Tart Hacks & Variations
- No puff pastry? Use a shortcrust round or even a slice of bread flattened with a rolling pin (toast it in the oven for 10–12 mins).
- Add a spoonful of cream cheese under the jam for cheesecake vibes.
- Want it extra indulgent? Drizzle melted dark chocolate on top after baking.
🧠 Nutrition Nods
This one leans more into the treat yourself category than the “clean eating” lane, but hey—we believe in balance. A touch of fruit, a bit of fibre (thanks jam!), and some flaky pastry joy? Sounds like a mental health food to us.
✨ Solo, But Still a Bit Special
This tart proves that just because you’re cooking for one doesn’t mean you can’t eat something cute, sweet, and plated like you’re on MasterChef. Pair it with a cup of tea and your fluffiest socks and make a moment of it.
Because honestly? You’re worth tart-level effort. Even if the effort is only 15 minutes long.
💬 Love This Recipe?
Share it with a friend who needs a little solo dessert inspiration—or better yet, subscribe to get more easy single-serve treats sent straight to your inbox. Because cooking for one doesn’t mean eating boring food.
