Tarts

Combine flour, confectioner's sugar, and vanilla in a large mixing bowl.

Cut cold butter into small cubes and add to the flour mixture, then rub between fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

Create a well in the center of the mixture and crack the egg into it, then mix gently with a fork until a dough forms.

Knead the dough briefly on a lightly floured surface until just combined; do not overwork.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin or tartlet molds.

Divide dough into 4 equal portions and press each firmly into the prepared molds to form an even shell with a slightly raised edge.

Prick the base of each tart shell several times with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.

Bake for 12 minutes until the shells are golden and set.

Remove from oven and allow to cool in the molds for 2–3 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.