Thank you for attending this class! We explored delicious and easy-to-make desserts perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day, including a beautiful fruit tart and a quick chai mug cake. Below are the key takeaways and next steps to recreate these treats at home.

Key Takeaways and Next Steps

1. Fruit Tart Basics

The tart crust is made with flour, sugar, salt, and lots of butter (10 tablespoons), with an almond flavoring.
Ensure the crust is cooled before assembling and dock it (poke with a fork) to prevent bubbles.
Use pie weights, dried beans, or even clean rocks to help maintain a flat crust.
The filling consists of mascarpone cheese, cream cheese, powdered sugar, almond extract, and lemon juice, whipped to a creamy consistency.
Decorate with a variety of fresh fruits (e.g., mandarin oranges, raspberries, strawberries, blueberries, kiwis).
Apply a glaze (melted apricot jam or orange marmalade with water) to give the tart a glossy finish.
Recipe Link

2. Cake in a Mug (Chai Cake)

A great single-serving dessert using minimal ingredients and made in the microwave.
Uses black tea-infused milk for flavor, with spices like cardamom and ginger.
Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and spices, then add infused milk and oil.
Microwave for 90 seconds and let it cool before decorating.
Enhance with whipped cream, sprinkles, or even turn it out onto a plate to decorate like a mini cake.
Recipe Link

3. Mother’s Day Traditions Around the World

United States: Breakfast in bed, flowers, cards, and dining out.
India: Newer celebration, mainly cards and gifts.
Japan: White carnations are given to mothers.
Ethiopia: Celebrated at the end of the rainy season with a large family feast.
United Kingdom: Celebrated on the fourth Sunday of Lent; traditionally, daughters bake fruit cakes.
France: Recognized post-World War II, with flower-shaped cakes as a common gift.

4. Other Dessert Ideas

Fudge: A simple, rich chocolate treat.
Daisy Cupcakes: Made with marshmallow petals for decoration.
Extreme Chocolate Cheesecake: A decadent dessert option for chocolate lovers.
Portuguese Sweet Bread: A lightly sweet yeast bread often used for special occasions.