If you’re a fan of French pastries and love the rich sweetness of berries, then Tarte aux Myrtilles—the traditional French blueberry tart—will surely capture your taste buds. This dessert, with its crisp buttery crust and a luscious layer of juicy blueberries, is a celebrated summer classic from the Alpine regions of France, especially Alsace and Savoie.

Let’s explore what makes this tart so special, how to prepare it at home, and a few tips to bring the taste of a French patisserie right into your kitchen.

🌿 What is Tarte aux Myrtilles?

Tarte aux Myrtilles is a French tart made primarily with fresh wild blueberries (myrtilles sauvages) nestled on a buttery shortcrust pastry. Often dusted with powdered sugar or served with a dollop of crème fraîche or whipped cream, it's a simple yet elegant dessert with a rustic charm.

In regions like Vosges or Haute-Savoie, you’ll often find this tart served at mountain lodges and alpine bakeries, showcasing the seasonal bounty of wild blueberries.

🍇 Ingredients

Here’s a classic version of Tarte aux Myrtilles:

For the Shortcrust Pastry (Pâte Brisée):

200 g all-purpose flour

100 g unsalted butter (cold, cubed)

1 egg

1 tbsp sugar

A pinch of salt

1-2 tbsp cold water (if needed)


For the Filling:

500 g fresh or frozen blueberries (preferably wild)

100 g sugar (adjust based on sweetness of berries)

2 tbsp cornstarch or flour

1 tsp vanilla extract or lemon zest (optional)


Optional Topping:

Powdered sugar, for dusting

Crème fraîche or whipped cream, for serving

🍴 How to Make Tarte aux Myrtilles

Step 1: Make the Pastry

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

  2. Add the egg and mix to bring the dough together. Add a little cold water if it’s too dry.

  3. Form a ball, flatten into a disk, wrap in cling film, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Pre-Bake the Tart Shell

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

  2. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and line a tart pan (23-25 cm).

  3. Prick the base with a fork. Line with parchment paper and baking beans.

  4. Bake for 12-15 minutes. Remove the paper and beans, and bake for another 5 minutes until lightly golden.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a bowl, mix blueberries with sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla or zest.

  2. Pour the mixture into the pre-baked crust.

Step 4: Bake the Tart

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the berries are bubbling and the crust is golden.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Let the tart cool to room temperature. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with crème fraîche or vanilla ice cream.

💡 Tips for the Perfect Tarte aux Myrtilles

Wild blueberries have more intense flavor—use them if available.

For extra texture, sprinkle a few crushed almonds or oats on top before baking.

If using frozen berries, don’t thaw them; just add a little extra cornstarch to absorb the extra liquid.

🥄 Variations

Alsatian Style: Some versions include a custard poured over the berries before baking.

Crumb Topping: Add a streusel topping for a blueberry crumble tart hybrid.

Glazed Finish: Brush the top with a blueberry jam glaze for shine.

🇫🇷 A Taste of the Alps at Home

Whether you're reminiscing about a trip to the French Alps or simply looking for a fresh and elegant summer dessert, Tarte aux Myrtilles is a perfect choice. It’s easy enough for a weekday treat, yet elegant enough for a dinner party.

Bon appétit! 🍇🥧