“Handtertjies” – Jam Tarts (SA style)

I don’t know about all of you, but when I was little, my mother used to make them regularly. Now I do the same and I enjoy every minute. Handtertjies are very soft puff pastry filled with apricot jam and baked until golden brown. It tastes great fresh out of the oven, but can be enjoyed warm or cold.

Here’s the recipe, and remember to use apricot jam! If you’re in England, I know, everyone loves strawberry jam, and it will work just as well. Choose the one you prefer and that’s it…

Ingredients:

1/2 pound butter (margarine is fine too, but butter gives it a nicer flavor)
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
a pinch of salt
1/2 cup ice water (enough to bind)

Method:

1. Use your fingers to rub the butter into the flour, salt, and cream of tartar. (It’s easier to freeze butter and grate it!)
2. Mix the water and fold with a knife.
3. Tie the dough, cover with a cold, damp cloth and leave in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough and use a round shape cookie cutter. Place one or 1/2 teaspoon of jam in the middle and fold, forming a crescent.
5. Press outside with a fork.
6. Spread the milk on top and bake in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for about 15 to 20 minutes, until lightly browned.

Eat and enjoy!