South African Melktert Recipe

Flour: Used to create the base of the crust and to thicken the custard filling.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to both the crust and the filling.

Melted butter: Provides richness and helps bind the crust together.

Beaten egg: Acts as a binder for the crust and adds richness to the filling.

Milk: The main component of the custard filling, providing creaminess.

Cornstarch: A thickening agent that helps achieve the perfect custard consistency.

Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely depth of flavor to the filling.

Butter: Stirred into the filling for added richness.

Ground cinnamon: Sprinkled on top for a warm, aromatic finish.

When preparing the crust, ensure that the butter is fully melted and well incorporated with the flour and sugar. This will create a more cohesive and tender base. Additionally, when heating the milk for the filling, be careful not to let it boil. Gradually adding the warm milk to the egg mixture while constantly stirring will prevent the eggs from curdling, resulting in a smooth and creamy custard.

• flour - Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can provide a gluten-free alternative and adds a slightly nutty flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will add a distinct flavor and extra moisture.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• beaten egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoon water to replace one egg, suitable for a vegan alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that works well in most recipes.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener, though it will add a distinct flavor and extra moisture.

• flour - Substitute with rice flour: Rice flour is a gluten-free alternative that can be used in place of regular flour.

• cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent and is a good substitute for cornstarch.

• beaten eggs - Substitute with chia seeds and water: Mix 1 tablespoon chia seeds with 3 tablespoon water to replace one egg, suitable for a vegan alternative.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can be used to provide a different but complementary flavor.

• butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee is a clarified butter that can be used for a richer flavor and is suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used to provide a warm, spicy flavor similar to cinnamon.

• To store your melktert, cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• If you want to freeze the melktert, first ensure it is completely set and chilled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen melktert, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• For a quicker thaw, you can leave the melktert at room temperature for a few hours. However, be cautious not to leave it out for too long to avoid any risk of spoilage.

• If you notice any condensation on the surface after thawing, gently dab it with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before serving.

• To maintain the melktert's creamy texture, avoid reheating it in the microwave. Instead, serve it chilled straight from the refrigerator.

• For an added touch, you can sprinkle a fresh layer of ground cinnamon on top before serving, as the original dusting may lose its vibrancy during storage.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the melktert on an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent the crust from drying out.
  4. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes if you want the crust to regain some crispiness.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a slice of melktert on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to avoid splatters.
  3. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. Let it sit for a minute before serving to allow the heat to distribute evenly.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Use a non-stick skillet and set it on low heat.
  2. Place a slice of melktert in the skillet.
  3. Cover the skillet with a lid to create a mini-oven effect.
  4. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even warming.
  5. Be cautious not to overheat, as the filling can become too runny.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the melktert in the air fryer basket.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through.
  4. This method will help maintain a crispy crust while warming the filling evenly.

• Double Boiler Method:

  1. Fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Place a heatproof bowl over the pot, ensuring it doesn't touch the water.
  3. Place the melktert slice in the bowl.
  4. Cover and heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming.
  5. This gentle method helps maintain the custard texture without overcooking.

• Oven: Used to preheat and bake the crust until golden brown.

• Pie dish: The dish where the crust is pressed into and the filling is poured.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the ingredients for the crust and the filling.

• Saucepan: Used to heat the milk and cook the filling until thickened.

• Whisk: Used to beat the eggs and mix the filling ingredients smoothly.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the flour, sugar, milk, and other ingredients accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities like vanilla extract and ground cinnamon.

• Spatula: Used to stir the filling and incorporate the butter.

• Refrigerator: Used to set the tart after the filling is poured into the crust.

• Knife: Used to cut and serve the tart once it is set.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting. This minimizes interruptions and ensures a smooth cooking process.

Use pre-made crust: If short on time, opt for a store-bought pie crust to skip the baking step.

Warm milk in microwave: Heat the milk in the microwave to save time compared to stovetop warming.

Mix dry ingredients ahead: Combine sugar, flour, and cornstarch in a bowl beforehand to streamline the process.

Cool crust quickly: Place the baked crust in the fridge to speed up the cooling process.