Name: Caramelized Fig And Honey Mascarpone Tart
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups (180 g) graham cracker crumbs or crushed buttery cookies; 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp (25 g) brown sugar; ¼ tsp salt; 1 cup (250 g) mascarpone cheese, room temperature; ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream; ¼ cup (85 g) honey, plus extra for drizzling; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp (15 g) powdered sugar (optional); 6–8 fresh figs, halved; 2 tbsp (30 g) brown sugar; 1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter; 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey; 1 tsp lemon juice (optional); ¼ cup (30 g) toasted chopped pistachios or walnuts; Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

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Short Description

A luscious tart featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with silky honey-sweetened mascarpone and glazed caramelized figs. This elegant dessert marries creamy, fruity, and nutty textures in one indulgent bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy mascarpone filling infused with honey and vanilla
Sweet, caramelized figs with a glossy finish
Crisp, buttery crust that balances the richness
Visually stunning layered tart, perfect for special occasions
Easy to assemble and chill ahead for convenience

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust
• 1½ cups (180 g) graham cracker crumbs (or crushed buttery cookies)
• 6 tbsp (85 g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tbsp (25 g) brown sugar
• ¼ tsp salt

Mascarpone Filling
• 1 cup (250 g) mascarpone cheese, at room temperature
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
• ¼ cup (85 g) honey (plus more for drizzling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp (15 g) powdered sugar (optional)

Caramelized Figs
• 6–8 fresh figs, halved
• 2 tbsp (30 g) brown sugar
• 1 tbsp (15 g) unsalted butter
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, to balance sweetness)

Garnish (Optional)
• ¼ cup (30 g) toasted chopped pistachios or walnuts
• Fresh mint leaves
• Extra honey for drizzling

Directions

1. Make The Crust

Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C). In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, brown sugar, and salt. Press mixture evenly into the bottom and sides of a tart pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Cool completely.

2. Prepare The Mascarpone Filling

In a bowl, whisk mascarpone, honey, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar (if using) until smooth. In a separate chilled bowl, beat heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined. Set aside.

3. Caramelize The Figs

In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter with brown sugar, honey, and lemon juice. Add fig halves cut-side down. Cook for 2–3 minutes until sugar dissolves and figs become glazed. Flip carefully and cook briefly on the other side. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

4. Assemble The Tart

Spread the mascarpone filling evenly into the cooled crust. Arrange the caramelized fig halves on top, pressing lightly into the filling. Drizzle extra honey over the figs. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios or walnuts and garnish with fresh mint if desired. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1–2 hours to firm up.

5. Serve

Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled. Add extra honey drizzle just before serving if desired.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 8 slices
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Baking Time: 8–10 minutes
Chill Time: 1–2 hours
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

Use crushed shortbread or Biscoff cookies for a different crust flavor
Add a layer of orange zest or marmalade under the mascarpone for brightness
Swap fresh figs with roasted or poached pears or peaches
Use ricotta whipped with honey and cream instead of mascarpone
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on the figs for sweet‑salty contrast

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Nuts and figs maintain texture best if stored separately and added before serving
Not suitable for freezing, as mascarpone texture can change
Serve chilled directly from the fridge

FAQs

Can I Use Canned Figs Instead Of Fresh?

Fresh figs caramelize more beautifully and hold their shape better. Canned figs may become too soft during caramelization.

What If I Don’t Have Graham Crackers?

Crushed cookies like shortbread, digestive biscuits, or Biscoff work just as well for the crust.

Can I Skip The Powdered Sugar In The Filling?

Yes—if your honey and mascarpone are sweet enough, powdered sugar is optional.

Is Lemon Juice Necessary In Caramelization?

It helps balance the sweetness and prevent overcaramelization, but you can omit it if you prefer.

Can I Make This Tart In Advance?

Yes. You can prepare up to the caramelized figs step a day in advance. Store components separately, then assemble and chill before serving.

Can I Make This Tart Vegan?

You would need to substitute mascarpone with vegan cream cheese and whipped coconut cream.

How Do I Get Clean Slices?

Use a sharp knife warmed by dipping in hot water, wiping clean between cuts.

Can I Use Other Nuts?

Yes—walnuts, pecans, or pistachios all work well for added crunch and flavor.

What Attracts Moisture From Figs?

To preserve texture, add nuts and mint garnish just before serving and store the tart covered but not tightly sealed.

Conclusion

This caramelized fig and honey mascarpone tart offers a perfect fusion of creamy sweetness, caramelized fruit, and a crunchy crust. Visually elegant and rich in flavor, it’s a sophisticated dessert that’s easy to make ahead and sure to impress any crowd. Slice, serve chilled, and savor each harmonious bite.