Eggnog Crème Tart with Caramel Shards – Festive Holiday Dessert Recipe
Eggnog crème tart with caramel shards is the perfect holiday showstopper! A silky eggnog custard filling nestled in a buttery tart crust is finished with golden caramel shards for a stunning presentation and irresistible flavor. Ideal for Christmas parties, festive dinners, or cozy winter celebrations.
Equipment
- Tart pan (9-inch)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Saucepan for caramel
- Baking sheet with parchment
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 tart shell (shortbread or pâte sucrée, pre-baked)
- 1½ cups eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for caramel shards)
Instructions
- Prepare Tart Shell: Blind bake tart shell until lightly golden. Cool.
- Make Custard: Whisk eggnog, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Bake Custard: Pour into tart shell. Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 35–40 minutes until set but slightly wobbly.
- Chill Tart: Cool completely, then refrigerate 4+ hours or overnight.
- Make Caramel Shards: Melt sugar in saucepan until amber. Pour onto parchment, cool, and break into shards.
- Garnish & Serve: Top tart with shards. Slice with a hot knife for neat portions.
Notes
- Chill tart overnight for best texture and clean slices.
- Watch caramel closely—it burns quickly.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for authentic holiday flavor.
- Add shards just before serving to keep them crisp.
- Try variations: gingerbread-spiced crust, chocolate-drizzled shards, or mini tartlets.