zandtaart

Zandtaart, literally meaning "sand tart" in Dutch, is a traditional pastry from the Netherlands and, in some regions, neighboring Belgium. The name refers to its crumbly, sandy texture, which comes from a rich shortcrust dough.

Typical zandtaart dough is made from butter, sugar, eggs, and flour, with optional almond meal or ground almonds to increase nuttiness and crumbliness. The dough is pressed into a tart ring or pan and partially baked to set the crust.

Fillings vary by recipe. Classic versions use a creamy custard or pastry cream, sometimes flavored with vanilla or lemon. Other variants rely on fruit fillings such as apricot, cherry, or raspberry, or are topped with almond praline or streusel. The finished tart is usually served cooled or at room temperature, sometimes dusted with sugar.

Regional and household variations exist, leading to a range of textures from very crumbly to firmer. In bakeries, zandtaart is commonly found among traditional Dutch pastries and is often enjoyed with coffee or tea during informal gatherings or celebrations.

See also: Dutch pastries, shortcrust pastry, almond tart, zandkoek.