A fresh and elegant French dessert — without turning on the oven!
When the days are warm, or when your kitchen simply isn’t equipped for traditional baking, oven-free desserts can feel like a little miracle. But not just any dessert — one that feels as elegant and satisfying as something you’d see in a French pâtisserie.
This no-bake raspberry tart combines a crisp biscuit base, a lusciously light mascarpone cream scented with lime, and sweet, juicy raspberries. It’s a beautiful balance of textures: creamy, crunchy, and fresh. The best part? It requires zero oven time and minimal effort.
Whether you’re cooking in a remote location, preparing a last-minute dessert, or just looking for a light summer recipe, this French fruit tart is the kind of recipe you’ll want to return to again and again.
Servings
6
Prep time:
20min
Cook time:
0min
Resting time:
2h
Why You’ll Love This Tart
- ✅ No oven needed — ideal for summer or low-equipment kitchens
- ✅ Naturally beautiful — makes an elegant centrepiece without fancy techniques
- ✅ Light and refreshing — with the brightness of lime and fresh berries
- ✅ Ready in under 30 minutes — perfect for busy schedules or spontaneous dinners
This is a classic French-inspired dessert made simple. You’ll only need a few ingredients and a little fridge space — no complicated baking steps involved.
Ingredients
Pie crust
- 150g of petit beurre (French shortbread biscuit)
- 80g of butter
Garnish
- 125g of mascarpone cheese
- 75g of liquid cream with 30% of fat
- 50g of granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp of vanilla sugar
- 1 lime zest
- 300g of raspberry
Step by Step Instructions
Make the Crust
Crush the biscuits finely using a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a pin. Mix the crumbs with melted butter until fully combined.
Line the bottom of a tart pan (preferably one with a removable base) with the mixture. Use the back of a spoon or a flat-bottomed glass to press the crust evenly into place.
Place the tart base in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Prepare the Mascarpone Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the mascarpone with the powdered sugar until smooth.
Pour in the whipping cream and continue whisking until the mixture thickens and holds its shape. Fold in the lime zest for a fresh, zesty touch.
Assemble the Tart
Once the crust is firm , spread the mascarpone cream evenly over the base.
Top generously with fresh raspberries. You can place them neatly in rows or scatter them for a more rustic look.
Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to blend and the texture to fully set.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Flavour Twist: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of raspberry liqueur to the cream for extra depth.
- Topping Options: Try other berries like blueberries or blackberries, or a mix for a colorful variation.
- Add crunch: Garnish with chopped pistachios or crushed meringue just before serving.
- No tart ring? Use a springform pan or individual dessert rings for single portions.
How to Serve
This easy raspberry tart makes a beautiful dessert for garden parties, casual dinners, or birthdays. Serve it chilled, ideally within 24 hours for the best texture. For a refined finish, dust lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with raspberry coulis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the entire tart a few hours ahead and keep it chilled. Just add any garnishes like mint or crushed nuts right before serving.
How long does it last in the fridge?
It’s best enjoyed within 24–36 hours. After that, the crust may soften and the raspberries can lose freshness.
Can I use frozen raspberries?
It’s not recommended, as they tend to release water and become mushy once defrosted. Stick to fresh for the best results.
Final Words
This oven-free raspberry tart is proof that elegant desserts don’t require complex techniques or baking experience. It’s one of those rare recipes that looks and tastes impressive — yet is incredibly easy to make. Perfect for summer days, impromptu entertaining, or simply treating yourself to something sweet and fresh.
Try it once, and it’ll become a go-to in your dessert repertoire.
Explore More French Recipes
Traditional French Breakfast
Fresh bread, butter, jam and Croissant —the simple, soulful start to a true French morning.
Raspberry & Chocolate Entremet (GF)
A light and elegant summer treat.
Chocolate Lava Cake
A decadent dessert with a molten heart—pure indulgence in every spoonful.
And if you’re ready to take your pastry skills to the next level, explore our Online Pastry Courses – designed to help you dive deeper into French classics, all from the comfort of your home.
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