How to Make Yorkshire Curd Tart: A Traditional Northern Delicacy

The Yorkshire curd tart is a charming and traditional dessert hailing from the historic county of Yorkshire in northern England. Made with a shortcrust pastry base and a delicately spiced filling of curd cheese, eggs, currants, and nutmeg, this classic tart is both humble and elegant. It’s the perfect teatime treat or a lovely finish to a Sunday roast.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

📌 What Is Yorkshire Curd Tart?

Yorkshire curd tart is a sweet, open pastry tart filled with curd cheese (a by-product of cheesemaking), sugar, eggs, butter, currants, and spices. It has a smooth, creamy texture and a lightly spiced flavour, often enhanced with a grating of fresh nutmeg.

This tart has been a part of Yorkshire's culinary heritage for centuries. Traditionally, curd cheese was made at home using leftover milk — nothing went to waste in the frugal kitchens of the north. The tart is especially associated with the Wensleydale area but is enjoyed throughout Yorkshire and beyond.

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🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

175g plain flour

85g unsalted butter (cold, diced)

1 tbsp caster sugar

1–2 tbsp cold water

For the Filling:

250g curd cheese (you can use well-drained cottage cheese or ricotta if needed)

75g caster sugar

2 medium eggs

40g unsalted butter (melted)

50g currants

½ tsp grated nutmeg (plus extra for sprinkling)

Zest of ½ lemon (optional)

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🍴 Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowl

Rolling pin

20cm (8-inch) tart tin

Baking beans or dried rice (for blind baking)

Sieve or muslin cloth (if making your own curds)

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👨‍🍳 Method: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Make the Pastry

Rub the cold butter into the flour using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the sugar, then add just enough cold water to bring the dough together.

Wrap and chill in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Tart Case

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / Gas Mark 4.

Roll out the chilled pastry on a floured surface and line your tart tin. Prick the base with a fork, line with baking paper, and fill with baking beans. Blind bake for 15 minutes, then remove the paper and beans and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Let the pastry case cool slightly while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Make the Curd Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the curd cheese with the sugar until smooth. Add the eggs, melted butter, lemon zest (if using), and nutmeg. Stir well to combine, then fold in the currants.

Pour the mixture into the pre-baked tart case and smooth the top. Sprinkle with a little more nutmeg if desired.

Step 4: Bake the Tart

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the filling is just set and lightly golden on top. The centre should still have a slight wobble.

Leave to cool in the tin before slicing and serving.

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🫖 How to Serve Yorkshire Curd Tart

Yorkshire curd tart is traditionally served at room temperature and pairs perfectly with a cup of Yorkshire tea. It’s lovely on its own, or you can add a dollop of clotted cream or a drizzle of cream for extra indulgence.

It also makes a delicious addition to an afternoon tea spread or a comforting pudding after a homely meal.

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💡 Tips for Success

Use fresh curd cheese if you can find it from a farm shop or cheesemonger.

Drain cottage cheese in a muslin cloth for a few hours if substituting for curd cheese.

Don't overbake — the tart should have a slight wobble and firm up as it cools.

Nutmeg is key — freshly grated nutmeg gives the best flavour.

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❄️ Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover Yorkshire curd tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving. It can also be frozen for up to a month — wrap tightly in cling film and foil, then defrost thoroughly before eating.

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🔎 

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❤️ Final Thoughts

Yorkshire curd tart is a true gem of British baking — simple, satisfying, and steeped in tradition. Whether you’re from the north or just looking to try something new, this curd tart is a delightful addition to your baking repertoire.

Try it today and enjoy a sweet slice of Yorkshire’s culinary heritage!

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Have you made this recipe?

Let us know in the comments, share your photos on social media, or tag us with your own version of Yorkshire curd tart. Happy baking!

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.