What is a "tart shell" in the context of classic desserts?

A tart shell is fundamentally a type of pastry dough that serves as the base for various fillings. This includes sweet fillings such as custards, creams, or fruit, as well as savory options like quiches. The significance of the tart shell lies in its structure and texture, which typically consists of a rich, buttery dough that is both crisp and tender when baked.

In classical pastry making, the tart shell is prepared using specific techniques to ensure it holds its shape during baking and supports the fillings without becoming soggy. This versatility makes it a staple in both traditional and modern desserts, allowing for a wide range of culinary creativity.

The other options, while related to desserts and pastries, do not define what a tart shell is. A layer of fruit refers to a topping or decoration rather than the base. A type of frozen dessert is unrelated to a tart shell, which is not frozen. Lastly, a savory pastry dish typically describes items like a quiche, but it does not encompass the full concept of a tart shell that can also be used for sweet applications. Thus, the definition clearly points to the pastry dough base for various fillings as the essence of a tart shell.