This tahini and banana brûlée tart is a refined yet comforting dessert that blends nutty sesame flavor with natural banana sweetness, finished with a crisp caramelized top. It’s creamy, elegant, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for dinner parties or a special weekend treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Combines the rich depth of tahini with the natural sweetness of bananas
Features a silky custard filling with a satisfying brûléed sugar crust
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients
Not overly sweet, making it balanced and sophisticated
Can be prepared ahead of time for stress-free entertaining
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Prepare the crust by combining flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl. Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
Mix in the egg yolk and add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a disc, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim excess and prick the base with a fork.
Bake the crust at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes, then let it cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk together mashed bananas, tahini, sugar, eggs, cream, vanilla, salt, and cinnamon until smooth.
Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust and smooth the top.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly wobbly in the center.
Allow the tart to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Just before serving, sprinkle an even layer of sugar over the top and caramelize using a kitchen torch until golden and crisp.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 slices
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 2 hours
Bake time: 50 minutes total
Total time: approximately 3 hours 15 minutes
Variations
Add a thin layer of sliced bananas on top of the filling before baking for extra texture
Replace cinnamon with cardamom for a more aromatic flavor
Use a whole wheat crust for a nuttier base
Add a tablespoon of honey to the filling for deeper sweetness
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds around the edges before serving
Storage/Reheating
Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, do not reheat. If the brûlée topping softens during storage, re-caramelize the sugar layer just before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, the tart can be made a day in advance and brûléed just before serving.
Do I need a kitchen torch?
A torch is recommended for best results, but you can briefly use the oven broiler while watching closely.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, a ready-made tart crust can be used to save time.
What type of tahini works best?
Use smooth, well-stirred tahini made from 100% sesame seeds.
Are the bananas supposed to be very ripe?
Yes, ripe bananas provide better sweetness and flavor.
Can I freeze this tart?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the custard texture.
Is this tart overly sweet?
No, it is balanced with nutty and natural flavors rather than excessive sweetness.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Cream is best for richness, but full-fat milk can be used with a slightly lighter result.
How do I know when the filling is done?
The center should jiggle slightly but not appear liquid.
Can I make it dairy-free?
You can substitute plant-based cream and butter alternatives suitable for baking.
Conclusion
Tahini and banana brûlée tart is a unique dessert that feels luxurious without being complicated. With its creamy filling, crisp caramelized top, and balanced flavors, it’s a memorable treat that’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Tahini & Banana Brûlée Tart is a sophisticated yet comforting dessert that pairs the nuttiness of tahini with ripe bananas in a silky custard, all nestled in a buttery tart crust and topped with a crisp caramelized sugar layer.
