I always set my puff pastry out about 40 minutes before I plan to start baking so it has time to soften naturally. Trying to rush this step usually leads to cracked or torn dough. Once it's ready, I preheat my oven to 400°F so it's fully hot when the tart goes in.
I unroll the thawed pastry directly onto a lined baking sheet and gently smooth out the fold lines with my hands or a rolling pin. I don't stress about making the edges perfectly straight since a slightly rustic look actually adds to the charm. This base is what holds all that berry filling together.
Next, I rinse all four berries in a colander and let them drain well before adding them to a mixing bowl. If I'm using strawberries, I quarter the larger ones so every bite has an even texture. Removing excess water here helps prevent a soggy tart later.
I add the brown sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch right into the bowl with the berries. Then I mix everything gently so the berries stay mostly intact instead of turning mushy. This step is where all that warm, sweet-tart flavor comes together.
I spoon the berry mixture onto the center of the pastry, leaving about a 1 1/2-inch border of dough uncovered. Then I fold the edges up and over the filling, tucking the corners under so it holds its shape. It doesn't need to look flawless, since the rustic edges bake up beautifully.
I lightly beat one egg and brush it over the exposed pastry edges for a shiny, golden finish. Then I slide the tart into my preheated oven and bake it for 15 to 20 minutes, until the crust turns a deep golden brown. My kitchen always smells incredible at this point.
Once it's out of the oven, I let the tart rest for a few minutes so the filling can set slightly. I usually dust mine with powdered sugar right before serving. It's ready to slice and enjoy warm, at room temperature, or even chilled.