This Chilled Violet Dream Tart is a stunning dessert that combines a buttery cookie crust with a silky, floral violet-infused filling. The vibrant purple hue and cool, creamy texture make it a beautiful centerpiece for spring, summer, or any occasion when I want something elegant and unique. Light, floral, and slightly fruity, this tart is as dreamy as its name suggests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this tart because it’s unlike any other dessert I’ve made. The floral notes from the violet are subtle and refreshing, and the chilled filling makes it perfect for warm days. The crust is buttery and crisp, the filling is smooth and luxurious, and the color alone makes it feel magical. It’s easy to make ahead and serve cold, which also makes it incredibly convenient for entertaining.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the crust:
-
Cookie or graham cracker crumbs
-
Unsalted butter, melted
-
Granulated sugar
-
Pinch of salt
For the violet filling:
-
Cream cheese, softened
-
Sweetened condensed milk
-
Violet syrup or violet liqueur substitute (non-alcoholic floral syrup)
-
Lemon juice
-
Gelatin powder
-
Water (for blooming gelatin)
-
Purple food coloring (optional, for a more vibrant look)
Optional topping:
-
Whipped cream
-
Crystallized violets or edible flowers
-
White chocolate curls or fresh berries
Directions
-
I begin by mixing the cookie crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and a pinch of salt until it resembles wet sand.
-
I press the mixture into a tart pan with a removable bottom and chill it in the fridge while I prepare the filling.
-
In a small bowl, I sprinkle gelatin over water and let it bloom for a few minutes. Then, I heat it gently until fully dissolved.
-
In a large bowl, I beat cream cheese until smooth, then mix in sweetened condensed milk, violet syrup, and lemon juice.
-
I stir in the dissolved gelatin and a drop or two of purple food coloring, mixing until the filling is silky and even.
-
I pour the filling into the chilled crust and smooth the top with a spatula.
-
I refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until fully set.
-
Before serving, I garnish with whipped cream and edible flowers for a touch of elegance.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes one 9-inch tart, serving 8–10 people. It takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus 4 hours of chilling time.
Variations
-
I sometimes use a shortbread crust instead of graham for a softer, buttery flavor.
-
Swapping violet syrup with lavender syrup gives a similar floral vibe.
-
I’ve added a layer of berry compote on top for extra contrast and flavor.
-
For a vegan version, I use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut condensed milk with agar-agar instead of gelatin.
Storage/Reheating
I store the tart in the fridge, covered, for up to 4 days. Since it’s meant to be served chilled, there’s no need to reheat—it’s always ready to slice and serve straight from the refrigerator. I don’t recommend freezing, as it can affect the creamy texture.
FAQs
What does violet syrup taste like?
It has a light floral taste with a slightly fruity undertone—it’s delicate and not overpowering, which makes it perfect for this tart.
Where can I find violet syrup?
I usually find it online or at specialty baking or cocktail shops. Non-alcoholic versions work best for desserts like this.
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, I often make it the day before and let it chill overnight. It holds its shape beautifully and is easy to serve straight from the fridge.
Is food coloring necessary?
Not at all. The natural syrup adds a hint of color, but I use food coloring when I want a more vibrant, dreamy purple.
Can I use gelatin alternatives?
Yes, I’ve used agar-agar for a vegetarian version. Just follow the package instructions for dissolving and setting.
Conclusion
Chilled Violet Dream Tart is a light, elegant dessert that brings floral charm and creamy texture together in a beautiful presentation. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for making ahead, and always a conversation starter at the table. Whether I’m celebrating something special or just want to try something new, this tart delivers on flavor, beauty, and simplicity.
Print
Chilled Violet Dream Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: European-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Chilled Violet Dream Tart is an elegant, no-bake dessert featuring a buttery cookie crust and a silky, floral violet-infused filling. With its dreamy purple hue and refreshing, lightly fruity flavor, this tart is perfect for spring gatherings, summer celebrations, or anytime you want a show-stopping chilled dessert.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1½ cups cookie or graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Pinch of salt
- For the Violet Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup violet syrup (or non-alcoholic floral liqueur)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1½ tsp unflavored gelatin powder
- 2 tbsp water (for blooming gelatin)
- Optional: 1–2 drops purple food coloring
- Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Crystallized violets or edible flowers
- White chocolate curls or fresh berrie
Instructions
-
Mix cookie crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt until the texture resembles wet sand.
-
Press mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Chill while preparing filling.
-
In a small bowl, sprinkle gelatin over water and let bloom for 5 minutes. Gently heat until fully dissolved.
-
In a large bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Mix in sweetened condensed milk, violet syrup, and lemon juice.
-
Stir in dissolved gelatin and food coloring (if using). Mix until smooth and evenly colored.
-
Pour filling into the chilled crust. Smooth the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
-
Before serving, garnish with whipped cream and edible decorations if desired.
Notes
- Use a shortbread crust for a richer flavor.
- Lavender syrup can substitute for violet if preferred.
- A thin layer of berry compote adds extra contrast.
- Make it vegan with dairy-free ingredients and agar-agar instead of gelatin.
- Store chilled; do not freeze to preserve creamy texture.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *