South African Hertzoggies are a treasured teatime favourite that has been enjoyed for generations. These delightful little tartlets feature a crisp buttery pastry filled with sweet fruity jam and topped with a light, chewy coconut layer that turns beautifully golden in the oven.
Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, afternoon tea, or simply craving a nostalgic homemade treat, this easy Hertzoggies recipe delivers delicious results every time. They require simple pantry ingredients and are surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
With their irresistible combination of buttery pastry, sweet jam, and toasted coconut, Hertzoggies remain one of South Africa’s most beloved traditional bakes. Serve them with a hot cup of tea or coffee and enjoy a timeless recipe that’s sure to become a family favourite.
Ingredients
- • 2 Eggs, large – refrigerated
- • 1/2 cup Apricot or raspberry jam
- • 1 cup All-purpose flour
- • 1/2 cup Granulated sugar
- • 1 cup Coconut
- • 1/2 cup Butter, unsalted
Method
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F) and prepare a tart or muffin pan.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, then mix in the flour to form a soft dough.
- Press small portions of dough into the prepared pan, creating a shallow well in the centre.
- Spoon a little apricot or raspberry jam into each pastry case.
- Top with the prepared coconut mixture, covering the jam lightly.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and the coconut is lightly toasted.
- Cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Serve once completely cooled.
Chef’s Tip
For the most authentic flavour, use apricot jam, but raspberry jam also makes a delicious variation. Allow the butter to soften naturally before mixing, and avoid overworking the dough to keep the pastry light and tender.
Old-Fashioned South African Hertzoggies with Jam and Coconut
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs refrigerated
- ½ cup apricot jam
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup designated coconut
- ½ cup butter unsalted
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a tart pan or mini muffin tin, or line a baking tray if needed, so the Hertzoggies release easily after baking.
Step 2: Make the Pastry
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until pale and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Gradually stir in the flour until a soft, smooth dough forms.
Step 3: Shape the Tart Shells
- Roll small portions of dough into balls and gently press them into the prepared tart or muffin pan, creating a small hollow in the center of each pastry shell. Make sure the sides are even so they bake uniformly.
Step 4: Add the Jam Filling
- Spoon approximately half a teaspoon of apricot or raspberry jam into the center of each pastry case. Avoid overfilling, as the jam will spread slightly during baking.
Step 5: Prepare the Coconut Topping
- Mix the coconut with the remaining ingredients for the topping until well combined. Spoon a generous amount over each tart, covering the jam without pressing it down too firmly. The coconut topping should remain light and fluffy.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the pastry is lightly golden and the coconut topping has developed a beautiful golden-brown colour around the edges.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
- Allow the Hertzoggies to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once completely cooled, serve with tea or coffee and enjoy these traditional South African favourites.
Chef's Tip
For the most authentic flavour, use apricot jam, but raspberry jam also makes a delicious variation. Allow the butter to soften naturally before mixing, and avoid overworking the dough to keep the pastry light and tender.