Name: Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Holiday
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 to 3 tablespoons ice water; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 1/2 cups prepared eggnog; 3 egg yolks; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1/3 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons water

A holiday showstopper with a velvety eggnog custard nestled in a buttery tart shell, this Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards is both elegant and festive. It layers rich seasonal flavors with a dramatic presentation, making it perfect for entertaining or indulging in something extraordinary on a cozy winter evening.

The creamy eggnog filling is gently spiced and lightly sweet, with a texture that melts on the tongue. Topped with delicate caramel shards that add crunch and a hint of bitterness, each bite is a contrast of smooth and crisp, creamy and crackly, sweet and deep.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Crème Tart

This tart brings warmth and sophistication to the dessert table. It’s the kind of recipe that feels luxurious but doesn’t require hours of stress in the kitchen. The custard can be made in advance, and the shards are a playful yet simple way to elevate the look. It’s familiar thanks to the eggnog but feels like a fresh way to enjoy it.

What Type of Tart Crust Works Best?

A classic shortcrust pastry is ideal for this dessert. It needs to be sturdy enough to hold the silky custard but tender and flaky so that it doesn’t compete with the filling. A homemade crust with butter will give you the richest flavor, but a quality store-bought version can save time and still yield delicious results.

Ingredients for the Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards

When creating this tart, each component serves a purpose in layering flavor and texture.

Tart Shell

All-purpose flour – gives structure and a tender crumb to the crust.
Unsalted butter – adds richness and creates flakiness.
Sugar – lightly sweetens the base.
Salt – balances the sweetness.
Egg yolk – provides binding and adds to the texture.
Ice water – helps bring the dough together without melting the butter.

Eggnog Filling

Heavy cream – brings luxurious creaminess.
Prepared eggnog – the star flavor, giving it that signature holiday taste.
Egg yolks – make the custard thick and smooth.
Cornstarch – ensures the filling sets perfectly.
Sugar – sweetens and balances the spice.
Ground nutmeg – classic spice that pairs with eggnog.
Vanilla extract – adds warmth and rounds out the flavors.

Caramel Shards

Granulated sugar – caramelizes to a deep amber for that sweet crunch.
Water – dissolves the sugar evenly.

Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards (1)

How To Make the Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shell

Start by making the tart shell. In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and a bit of ice water until the dough holds together. Chill for 30 minutes, then roll out and press into a tart pan. Prick the base, then blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Let cool.

Step 2: Cook the Eggnog Custard

In a saucepan, whisk together the eggnog, heavy cream, sugar, cornstarch, and nutmeg. Cook over medium heat until it thickens, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and whisk in vanilla and egg yolks one at a time, then return to low heat just until the custard is glossy and thick. Pour into the cooled tart shell and refrigerate until set, at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Shards

Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and cook over medium-high heat without stirring until it turns amber. Immediately pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread thin. Let cool completely, then break into shards.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Top the chilled tart with caramel shards just before serving. They add stunning visual appeal and a brittle crunch to every creamy slice.

Serving and Storing the Tart

This recipe yields 8 to 10 servings, making it a wonderful choice for gatherings. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, though the caramel shards are best added fresh. For make-ahead ease, prepare the crust and custard a day in advance and assemble just before serving.

What to Serve With Eggnog Crème Tart?

Whipped Mascarpone

A dollop on the side adds even more creaminess without overpowering the tart’s flavor.

Spiced Hot Chocolate

A cozy drink that mirrors the nutmeg notes in the tart.

Mulled Wine

The tartness of warm wine cuts through the sweetness of the custard beautifully.

Gingerbread Cookies

Adds crunch and spice for contrast.

Cinnamon-Spiced Pecans

Their warmth and nutty texture work well with the creamy custard.

Chai Latte

The spices in chai echo the cozy feel of the tart.

Fresh Berries

A bright and juicy contrast to the rich filling.

Brandy or Bourbon

If serving adults, a small glass enhances the eggnog element in a bold way.

Want More Holiday Dessert Ideas?

If this tart caught your eye, you’ll love these festive creations too:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to hear how you personalized your Eggnog Crème Tart! Did you spice up the caramel or go with a flavored crust? Let’s swap ideas in the comments. And if you have any questions, I’m always happy to help.

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Conclusion

Whether you’re wrapping up a holiday feast or simply craving a creamy winter dessert, this Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards brings the spirit of the season to every bite. It’s festive, flavorful, and unforgettable.