I am really having a craving for Bakewell Tart. I had some from when I was last up there but it has not kept at all well so I am going to have to feed it to the birds instead. Sadness. But at least the birds can enjoy it!

One of the best comfort foods ever. I am sure my family has an old recipe somewhere. I will have a look for it tonight and then you can try and make it and see if you like it! For now, here is a bit of a history. It's good to know you are tasting a bit of history.

Origins of the Bakewell Tart

Throughout history there have been many different views on how the Bakewell Tart was created, but now everyone has come to a general agreement on the matter.

In 1820 Mrs. Greaves the landlady of the White Horse Inn, (now known as the Rutland Arms), invited friends round for dinner. She was busy entertaining, so gave instructions to her cook directing her to make a pudding.

She told her to mix an egg mixture with a secret ingredient into a pastry case and spread strawberry jam on top. The cook was inexperienced so misunderstood Mrs. Greaves instructions, and poured the egg mixture onto the jam instead, therefore making a tart, not a pudding!

The tart was still served to the guests and as they praised the dish, Mrs Greaves ordered her staff to continue making them that way. They did as she asked and that's how the Bakewell tart was invented. Throughout the years there have been various alterations concerning the type of pastry to be used, but thanks to this the perfect desserts are currently on sale.

Today there's only one place that makes the traditional Bakewell Tart, which is the Bakewell Tart Shop and Coffee House. Whoever has the correct recipe, all are kept in fireproof safes, ensuring the real thing can continue to be made.

taken from The Bakewell Tart Shop website. Very happy they have a website so I can order Bakewell Tarts when I want!