Name: Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 2 h 45 min
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds; 1 cup gluten-free all purpose flour (or regular all purpose flour if not GF); ½ cup ground almonds; 4 tablespoons vegan butter; 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (or coconut sugar); ¼ teaspoon sea salt; 1 ½ cups vanilla soy milk; 1 cup vanilla soy yogurt; ½ cup cornstarch (cornflour); ¼ cup pure maple syrup; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ½ teaspoon agar agar powder; pinch sea salt; 7-8 stalks rhubarb; ¼ cup caster sugar

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 65 reviews

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious, this Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe will quickly become your new go-to favorite. It perfectly balances the tangy brightness of tender roasted rhubarb with a silky, luscious custard filling, all nestled inside a crisp, buttery vegan crust. Whether you’re vegan or simply crave a fresh, fruit-forward dessert that’s light yet indulgent, this tart offers a wonderful harmony of textures and flavors that will wow anyone lucky enough to try it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A long rectangular tart with a golden brown crust forms the base. On top, there are two clear sections: one half is creamy light beige smooth filling, and the other half is lined with bright red and pink rhubarb stalks arranged closely in parallel, slightly angled. Some small green pistachio pieces are scattered over the red rhubarb. The tart is placed on a white marbled surface beside a small white bowl of chopped pistachios, a jar of red liquid with a spoon, and a knife with a beige handle with a few drops of red liquid nearby. A soft beige cloth is in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe is thoughtfully chosen to create a balance of texture, flavor, and vibrant color. You’ll find that simplicity truly shines here, with staple pantry items coming together for an elegant result.

Ground flaxseeds: Used to make a flax egg that binds the crust naturally, offering a nutritious vegan alternative to traditional eggs.
Gluten-free all purpose flour (or regular): The base of the crust, providing structure and tenderness.
Ground almonds: Add a subtle nutty richness and delicate crumbly texture to the tart shell.
Vegan butter: Imparts that flaky, buttery mouthfeel essential to a perfect crust.
Light brown sugar (or coconut sugar): Brings gentle sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor to the crust.
Sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Vanilla soy milk: Provides the creamy base of the custard with lovely vanilla undertones.
Vanilla soy yogurt: Adds tangy creaminess and helps create a smooth custard texture.
Cornstarch (cornflour): The thickening agent for that signature custard consistency.
Pure maple syrup: Natural sweetness that deepens the custard’s flavor.
Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with warm and inviting aroma.
Agar agar powder: A plant-based gelatin substitute ensuring the custard sets firmly.
Rhubarb stalks: Tart and vibrant, they become the star topping once roasted and caramelized.
Caster sugar: Used to coat the rhubarb, helping it soften and sweeten beautifully in the oven.

How to Make Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

Start by creating your flax egg, a magical vegan binding agent. Combine the ground flaxseeds with water and let it sit until it turns gel-like. Meanwhile, preheat your oven and prepare your tart tin with a bit of oil and parchment paper. Then, pulse together the flour, ground almonds, vegan butter, sugar, salt, and flax egg in a food processor to form a smooth dough. Press this dough evenly into the tart tin, prick the base lightly with a fork, and bake it until golden and firm. This crust will be the perfect bite—crumbly yet sturdy enough to hold your luscious custard filling.

Step 2: Roast the Rhubarb

Rhubarb is such a stunning vegetable to work with in desserts because of its vibrant color and tangy punch. Simply wash and trim rhubarb stalks, slice them to fit your tart, and coat them in caster sugar. Lay them out in a baking dish lined with parchment, cover, and roast gently until tender and softened. This process mellows the rhubarb’s acidity and unlocks natural sweetness, creating those beautiful ribbons that will crown your tart wonderfully.

Step 3: Cook the Custard Filling

Next comes the silky custard that makes this tart truly unforgettable. Whisk together the vanilla soy milk, cornstarch, and agar agar powder, then add the soy yogurt, maple syrup, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Heat this mixture slowly while whisking vigorously until it thickens into a creamy custard. It’s mesmerizing to see the transformation from liquid to custard, and the vanilla aroma that fills your kitchen is pure comfort.

Step 4: Assemble and Chill

Pour the slightly cooled custard into your pre-baked tart shell and let it settle at room temperature before chilling it in the fridge. This chilling step lets the custard firm up perfectly, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors. Once set, top the tart delicately with those gorgeous roasted rhubarb ribbons, and your Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe is almost ready to delight!

Step 5: Final Presentation

Drizzle some of the rhubarb’s natural syrup over the tart just before serving for extra glossy sweetness and a burst of color. This finishing touch really elevates your tart into something special and eye-catching on the dessert table.

How to Serve Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe

A rectangular tart with a golden brown crust that has a ridged edge, filled with a smooth, pale cream layer. On top, there are bright pink rhubarb sticks arranged in a neat row, leaning diagonally from one side to the other. Small pieces of green pistachio nuts are sprinkled over the rhubarb sticks, adding texture and color contrast. The tart is set on a white marbled surface, with a knife with a light handle on the right side and a glass with red liquid blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of toasted almonds or a few fresh mint leaves add a lovely crunch and herbal freshness that complements the tart’s creamy custard and sharp rhubarb beautifully. You can also dust it lightly with a pinch of powdered sugar for a delicate winter wonderland effect that’s picture perfect.

Side Dishes

This tart stands splendidly on its own but pairing it with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a dollop of coconut whipped cream amplifies its indulgence. The contrast between warm tart and cold cream creates an irresistible combination that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, slice the tart into small squares and serve on pretty plates topped with edible flowers or a drizzle of rhubarb syrup. You could even create mini tartlets by halving the recipe and baking in muffin tins—perfect for shareable sweet bites at gatherings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, keep your tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and moist for up to two days, although honestly, it rarely lasts that long. Just remember to cover it to prevent the custard from absorbing any fridge odors.

Freezing

Because of the delicate custard texture, freezing this tart is not ideal as it can affect the smoothness upon thawing. If you must freeze, wrap it tightly and consume within one month for best quality, then thaw slowly in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

It’s best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer the rhubarb a little warmer, briefly warm slices in a low oven or microwave for 10-15 seconds. Avoid reheating the entire tart as the custard may soften too much and become runny.

FAQs

Can I use a different plant milk instead of soy milk?

Absolutely! While vanilla soy milk works beautifully because of its creaminess and subtle flavor, unsweetened almond or oat milk can also be great alternatives. Just ensure they’re vanilla-flavored or add a bit of extra vanilla extract for taste balance.

Is agar agar powder necessary for the custard to set?

Yes, agar agar acts as a vegan gelatin substitute that firms up the custard nicely. Without it, the custard might remain too soft and won’t hold its shape as well in the tart shell.

Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Definitely! Using gluten-free all purpose flour instead of regular flour works perfectly, making this vegan rhubarb custard tart recipe a safe and yummy choice for gluten-sensitive friends and family.

How can I make the rhubarb less tart?

Roasting the rhubarb with caster sugar helps mellow its sharp acidity. You can also use slightly more sugar or let it roast a bit longer if you prefer it sweeter and softer, but be careful not to overcook so it retains some texture.

What is the best way to slice and serve the tart?

Use a sharp, serrated knife to get clean slices. Running the knife under hot water and wiping it between cuts also helps achieve smooth edges without disturbing the custard or crust.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Rhubarb Custard Tart Recipe is a definite showstopper that brings together fresh, wholesome ingredients in the most delightful way. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, it’s bound to become a cherished recipe in your collection. So go ahead and give it a try—you’re in for an exquisite slice of vegan heaven.