This Kiwi Tart pairs a crisp, nutty almond-coconut crust with a luscious, creamy coconut filling, topped with the bright and tangy slices of fresh kiwi. The vibrant green of the kiwi contrasts beautifully with the pure white cream layer, making this tart visually stunning and irresistibly refreshing.
Perfect for summer gatherings or a light finish to any meal, this plant-based dessert combines tropical flavors and wholesome ingredients. Its natural sweetness from maple syrup and fruit makes it a guilt-free indulgence that everyone can enjoy. The ease of preparation also makes it a great choice for both beginner and experienced home cooks.
Full Recipe:
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1 1/4 cups almond flour
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1/4 cup coconut flour
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2 tablespoons maple syrup
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1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
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Pinch of salt
For the filling:
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1 cup coconut cream (chilled, thick part only)
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2 tablespoons maple syrup
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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3-4 ripe kiwis, peeled and sliced
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a mixing bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix until a dough forms.
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Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
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Bake the crust for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
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While the crust cools, whisk together the chilled coconut cream, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
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Spread the coconut cream mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
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Arrange the kiwi slices decoratively on top of the coconut cream layer.
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Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour to set before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 220 kcal per serving | Servings: 8 servings
The Delightful Appeal of a Kiwi Tart
A kiwi tart is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience that combines refreshing flavors with a visually stunning presentation. The vibrant green hue of kiwi slices immediately catches the eye, promising a burst of freshness with every bite. This particular recipe elevates the classic fruit tart by incorporating a rich coconut cream filling and a nutty, gluten-free crust made from almond and coconut flours. The result is a dessert that is light, nourishing, and suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.
The use of kiwi in desserts is somewhat unique compared to more common fruits like berries or apples, which lends this tart a distinctive tropical flair. Kiwi offers a bright, tangy-sweet taste that complements creamy textures perfectly, making it an ideal partner for the smooth coconut cream layer. Beyond its flavor profile, kiwi brings a pop of color and an aesthetic charm that can easily make this tart the centerpiece of any gathering or celebration.
Why Choose a Plant-Based Kiwi Tart?
Plant-based desserts are growing in popularity not just for their health benefits, but also for their inclusivity. This kiwi tart fits perfectly into that trend as it is entirely dairy-free and gluten-free, making it accessible to people with various dietary restrictions or preferences. The substitution of traditional wheat flour with almond and coconut flours creates a crust that is both flavorful and nourishing, offering healthy fats and a subtle sweetness without the gluten.
The coconut cream filling provides a luscious, creamy texture without the need for dairy. It’s an excellent alternative for those who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to reduce their intake of animal products. The use of natural sweeteners like maple syrup ensures that the tart isn’t overloaded with refined sugars, which can be harsh on blood sugar levels and overall health.
This tart also embodies the principles of clean eating by relying on whole, minimally processed ingredients. It avoids artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a wholesome choice for those who care about what goes into their food. Additionally, the healthy fats found in coconut and almonds help promote satiety, making this dessert not only delicious but also more satisfying.
Nutritional Benefits of Kiwi and Coconut
Kiwi is often referred to as a superfruit for good reason. It is rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function and skin health. Kiwis also provide a good amount of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. They contain potassium, which is essential for cardiovascular health, and vitamin K, important for bone health. The tiny edible seeds in kiwi provide omega-3 fatty acids, contributing to heart and brain health.
Coconut cream, though higher in fat, consists primarily of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are metabolized differently from other fats and can provide a quick source of energy. Coconut also contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. The combination of coconut cream with maple syrup not only adds richness and sweetness but also provides some minerals such as manganese and copper, contributing to overall nutritional value.
The almond and coconut flours used in the crust add protein, fiber, and healthy fats, along with vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining skin health, supporting metabolism, and strengthening bones.
The Versatility of This Tart in Different Occasions
One of the best things about this kiwi tart is its versatility. Whether you are planning a summer picnic, a festive holiday gathering, or a casual family dinner, this tart fits right in. It’s light enough to be a refreshing finish after a hearty meal but elegant enough to serve at a formal occasion.
Because it’s plant-based and allergen-friendly, it can be confidently served to guests with diverse dietary needs, removing the stress of accommodating everyone’s preferences. The vibrant colors and fresh flavors make it an especially popular choice for spring and summer when fresh fruits shine the most.
Additionally, this tart is relatively easy to prepare and doesn’t require complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. The fact that it can be made ahead and chilled before serving means it can be part of your meal prep, saving time on busy days or special events.
Tips for Perfecting Your Kiwi Tart
While the recipe is straightforward, a few tips can help you take your kiwi tart to the next level. First, ensure that your coconut cream is well chilled before whipping it. This makes it easier to achieve a smooth, fluffy texture that holds well on the tart crust.
When preparing the crust, pressing it firmly and evenly into the pan will prevent cracking and ensure a sturdy base that can support the creamy filling and kiwi topping. Baking it until golden but not overdone will keep it from becoming too dry or brittle.
For the kiwi, selecting ripe but firm fruit is key. Overripe kiwi can become mushy and release too much juice, potentially making the crust soggy. Peeling the kiwi carefully to preserve the beautiful green flesh and arranging the slices creatively on the tart adds a lovely decorative touch.
If you want to experiment with flavors, adding a hint of lemon or lime zest to the coconut cream can provide an additional zing that brightens the overall taste. You can also incorporate other tropical fruits like mango or passionfruit alongside the kiwi for a more complex flavor profile.
How This Recipe Supports Sustainable and Mindful Eating
Choosing plant-based, whole-food ingredients supports not only personal health but also environmental sustainability. Almond and coconut flours have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional wheat farming and animal agriculture. Opting for natural sweeteners like maple syrup over processed sugar reduces reliance on heavily industrialized food production.
Preparing desserts like this kiwi tart at home allows for mindful eating practices. It encourages awareness of ingredient quality, portion sizes, and the sensory experience of enjoying food. Taking the time to craft and savor a beautiful, nourishing tart can transform dessert from an afterthought into a moment of pleasure and wellness.
Conclusion: A Refreshing and Nourishing Dessert Choice
This kiwi tart offers a perfect balance of taste, texture, and nutrition, making it an excellent dessert choice for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising on health or dietary restrictions. Its fresh, tropical flavor and vibrant appearance will impress guests and delight family members alike, while the wholesome ingredients contribute valuable nutrients.
Whether you follow a vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free lifestyle, or simply want to incorporate more whole foods and fruits into your diet, this kiwi tart is a versatile and approachable option. It’s ideal for warm-weather occasions or any time you crave a light, refreshing dessert that feels indulgent yet clean.
By choosing recipes like this, you not only nourish your body but also support sustainable food choices and embrace mindful cooking and eating habits. Enjoy this stunning tart as a celebration of natural flavors and wholesome ingredients that bring joy to your table.