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Wartime Syrup Tart (Treacle Tart) Recipe

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  • Author: Nora
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 20 min
  • Total Time: 40 min
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: British

Description

Wartime Syrup Tart, also known as Treacle Tart, is a classic British dessert originating from the 1940s. This simple recipe uses plain pastry, golden syrup, and soft white breadcrumbs, making it a nostalgic treat that utilizes humble wartime pantry staples. Perfectly golden and lightly sweet, it’s traditionally served warm and pairs wonderfully with custard. Ideal for vintage-themed celebrations or cozy teatime indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Pastry

  • 1/2lb (225g) plain pastry

Filling

  • Golden syrup (quantity as required to fill tart base)
  • Soft white breadcrumbs (to sprinkle thickly over syrup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pastry. Make plain pastry according to your preferred recipe or use a ready-made version weighing 1/2lb (225g). Ensure it is chilled and ready for rolling.
  2. Line the Tart Plates. Roll out the pastry to about 1/4 inch thickness and line your tart plates or tins, leaving some pastry aside for decorations. Ensure the pastry covers the sides and base evenly.
  3. Add the Filling. Pour a generous amount of golden syrup into the center of the lined pastry shell, spreading lightly but leaving room at the edges.
  4. Sprinkle Breadcrumbs. Thickly cover the golden syrup with soft white breadcrumbs, which will help set the filling and add texture.
  5. Decorate. Use the reserved pastry to cut and twist strips for decoration on top of the tart, arranging them in a classic lattice or twisted pattern.
  6. Bake. Place the tart in a preheated oven and bake until the pastry is pale golden brown and the filling is set, approximately 20 minutes.

Notes

  • This recipe originates from the wartime era and makes good use of stale bread by turning it into breadcrumbs.
  • Golden syrup was a luxury during the war, but only a small amount is used, making this dessert economical for its time.
  • The tart can be enjoyed freshly baked and warm or reheated later for a comforting treat, often served with custard.
  • This dessert is a beloved classic in British families, commonly enjoyed as part of teatime or post-meal sweets.
  • The recipe is suitable for nostalgic celebrations such as VE Day street parties or vintage-themed events.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 79
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 68mg
  • Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 5mg

Find it online: https://littlespoonbites.com/wartime-syrup-tart-treacle-tart-recipe/