In the realm of baking as viewed by a timid outsider, a tart seems a rather friendly thing. Not too large, not too small, not too high, it represents an approachable world where fruit or nuts meet crust. For the would-be baker intimidated by cakes, a tart beckons cheerily, “Come make me!”
A tart for dessert presents an enticing range of options. If you are wanting something pretty and easy, you can make a single large tart. Or, with a bit more work, you can achieve a lot more formality and drama by making individual tartlets (the culinary equivalent of a fabulous string of pearls). For a homey touch, you can make a lattice-weave tart or one topped with streusel. Or, for a more streamlined bit of dazzlement, you can crown a tart with a berry bonnet or a swirl of sliced fruit. Wintertime suggests nut tarts, summertime means berry tarts. For sheer versatility, this is an unbeatable dessert.