What is a neenish tart?
A neenish tart is a small Australian pastry filled with cream or mock cream and topped with icing in two colors, usually half chocolate and half pink or white. It is a classic item in Australian bakeries.
The tart has a pastry shell, sometimes with a layer of jam, and a sweet filling of cream or mock cream made from butter and sugar.
The top is covered with icing in two halves. Popular combinations include chocolate and white, chocolate and pink, or pink and white.
A mysterious origin
The origin of the name neenish is uncertain. Some stories suggest it was named after a person, while others link it to a town. Recipes appeared in Australian cookbooks from the early 1900s.
Neenish tarts are similar to pastries found in New Zealand. They are often served at morning teas, school fetes and bakeries.
Neenish tarts are part of a group of classic Australian baked goods, including lamingtons, vanilla slices and Anzac biscuits. They are often enjoyed with a cup of tea.
Some bakeries now make modern versions with different flavors, such as passionfruit or raspberry icing.