Springtime Citrus Tart: A Refreshing Paleo Dessert Perfect for Any Occasion

Embrace the vibrant flavors of the season with our Springtime Citrus Tart! This delightful dessert features a luscious citrus filling nestled in a crumbly date crust, creating a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Made with wholesome ingredients and free from grains and refined sugars, this paleo-friendly tart is not only delicious but also nourishing. Whether you’re celebrating Easter, hosting a brunch, or simply craving a refreshing treat, this citrus tart is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delightful dessert that will brighten up any occasion!

Ingredients:

Crust:

  • 1 cup pitted dates, tightly packed
  • 2/3 cup sustainable palm shortening
  • 1 1/2 cups arrowroot powder
  • 1/4 cup maple sugar

Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups fresh-squeezed Meyer lemon juice, orange juice, or Key lime juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric, achiote, spirulina, or chlorella (optional for color)
  • 3 teaspoons grass-fed gelatin
  • 1/2 cup sustainable palm shortening
  • 1/2 cup maple sugar
  • 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed orange juice (or lemon or Key lime juice)
  • 1/4 cup arrowroot powder

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a food processor, pulse the dates until small granules form. Add the shortening, arrowroot powder, and maple sugar, and pulse until combined into a crumbly mixture. Add more arrowroot powder if the mixture is too sticky.
  3. Press the date mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan, ensuring it’s distributed evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until lightly browned. Allow the crust to cool to room temperature.
  4. Meanwhile, make the filling. Mix the turmeric (or other colorant) into the citrus juice and sprinkle the gelatin on top. Let it sit undisturbed for 5 minutes to bloom.
  5. In a saucepan, heat the shortening and maple sugar on low, stirring to dissolve the sugar completely. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before adding the citrus juice and gelatin mixture.
  6. Return the saucepan to low heat, stirring constantly until the mixture is lukewarm and all ingredients are dissolved. Be careful not to overheat.
  7. In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice and arrowroot powder until dissolved. Add this mixture to the saucepan and continue stirring over low heat until the filling begins to thicken (about 5 minutes). Do not overcook.
  8. Once thickened, pour the filling into the cooled tart crust. Allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to set.
  9. Before serving, top the tart with fresh fruit and coconut milk whipped cream for a light and refreshing finish.

With its bright citrus flavors and buttery date crust, our Springtime Citrus Tart is the perfect dessert to welcome the season. Whether you’re indulging in a sweet treat for Easter brunch or simply treating yourself to a delicious dessert, this tart is sure to impress. Plus, with its paleo-friendly ingredients, you can enjoy each bite knowing it’s both delicious and nourishing. Give this recipe a try and celebrate the flavors of spring with a delightful citrus tart that’s sure to brighten up any occasion!