Hertzoggies – Simple yet Melt in your mouth gentle sweetness

Hertzoggies are delicate South African tartlets that combine buttery pastry, sweet apricot jam, and a coconut meringue topping. They are elegant yet comforting, making them a favourite at tea tables, church gatherings, and special occasions. Although small in size, they carry rich flavour and a strong sense of tradition.

The base of a hertzoggie is a soft, crumbly pastry that melts in the mouth. It is topped with smooth apricot jam, which adds gentle sweetness and balance. Above that, a light coconut meringue is spooned on and baked until lightly golden. As the tart cools, the textures settle into a harmonious blend of crisp, soft, and chewy.

These treats are believed to have historical roots dating back to the early 20th century. Over time, they became firmly woven into South African baking culture. While the traditional version remains popular, variations are sometimes made using different jams or nut toppings. Even so, the classic apricot and coconut combination remains the most loved.

At The Healthy Springbok, the aim is to preserve the charm of hertzoggies while keeping ingredients balanced. Reduced sugar, quality butter, and mindful portions help create a lighter version without losing authenticity. The focus stays on flavour and texture rather than heaviness.

Whether enjoyed with afternoon tea or shared at a gathering, Hertzoggies bring a sense of nostalgia and refinement. They remind us that baking can be both simple and special, and that small treats often leave the strongest impression. Pair with our Koeksisters recipe to complete your sweet tray when entertaining.

Hertzoggies

Mini tartlets with apricot jam and coconut meringue topping

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Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 18

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: South African

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pastry

• 1 cup 125g flour
• ½ cup 115g butter
• ¼ cup 50g sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt

Filling

• ½ cup 125ml apricot jam
• 2 egg whites
• ½ cup 100g sugar
• 1 cup 100g desiccated coconut

Equipment

• 2 Mixing bowls For pastry and topping
• 1 Measuring cups and spoons
• 1 Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• 1 Rubber spatula
• 1 Rolling Pin
• 1 Round cookie cutter or glass To cut dough in circles
• 1 Muffin tin or tartlet pan
• 1 Baking Paper
• 1 Cooling rackSpoon For jam filling

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cream butter and sugar together. Add egg yolk and mix well.
3. Stir in flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Roll dough and cut into circles.
5. Place into greased mini tartlet pans.
6. Add a small teaspoon of apricot jam in each shell.
7. Beat egg whites until stiff. Add sugar gradually, then fold in coconut.
8. Spoon mixture over jam.
9. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden.

Notes

Serve as part of a teatime platter with rooibos (for true South African flair) tea or coffee.  Pair with our Koeksisters recipe to complete your sweet tray.

 Nutrition (per serving):
 Calories: 150 | Protein: 5g | Fat: 14g | Carbs: 42g | Fibre: 2g