Strawberry and Chocolate Tart

Name: Strawberry and Chocolate Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Highlighted under: Flour & Frosting Recipes

I recently decided to treat myself to a sweet indulgence and whipped up this Strawberry and Chocolate Tart. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries is simply divine! Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness that brightens the palate. With a buttery crust and smooth filling, this tart feels elegant yet is surprisingly easy to make. I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:57:27.279Z

Making this tart was an adventure! I learned that using high-quality chocolate makes all the difference in flavor, leading to a luscious filling that practically melts in your mouth. I chose to use fresh strawberries to provide a bright contrast, both visually and in taste. Arranging them on top of the tart was a personal touch that made it feel extra special.

One tip I discovered is to let the tart cool completely before slicing, as this helps set the filling perfectly, preventing any messy cuts. I also recommend serving it chilled, which enhances the textures and flavors. It’s a dessert that adapts well to any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Tart
Decadent chocolate flavor combined with fresh, juicy strawberries
Buttery, flaky crust that crumbles perfectly with each bite
Ideal for both special occasions and a sweet weeknight treat

The Importance of Chocolate Quality

For this Strawberry and Chocolate Tart, the choice of chocolate plays a significant role in achieving a rich, decadent filling. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This ensures a deep, complex flavor that balances beautifully with the tartness of the fresh strawberries. If you prefer a sweeter profile, feel free to use a milk chocolate, but be cautious that it may alter the balance; you want your tart to shine, not overwhelm.

Chop the chocolate into small, even pieces to help it melt uniformly when combined with the hot cream. This guarantees that you’ll end up with a silky-smooth filling without any lumps. If you encounter any clumps of chocolate after pouring in the hot cream, simply let it sit for a few more minutes before stirring, as the heat will help dissolve any remaining pieces.

Perfecting the Tart Crust

Achieving that perfect buttery, flaky crust begins with your butter. It should be chilled and cubed, as warmer butter can lead to a dough that spreads too much during baking, resulting in a less structured tart. When mixing the butter into the flour, do so quickly to create that desired crumbly texture. If the dough feels too dry, adding a teaspoon of cold water at a time works wonders in bringing it together without overworking it.

After pressing the dough into the tart pan, chilling the crust is crucial. This step helps to firm up the butter, ensuring the sides hold their shape during baking. As a reference, look for the crust to turn a light golden brown on the edges when it’s finished baking. Allowing it to cool completely on a wire rack not only sets the structure but prevents it from steaming, which can make it soggy when you add the filling.

Ingredients

For the crust:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the filling:

8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Instructions

Prepare the crust

In a bowl, mix flour and powdered sugar. Add chilled butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and just enough cold water to form a dough. Press into a tart pan and chill for 15 minutes while preheating the oven.

Bake the crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Make the filling

In a saucepan, heat the cream and sugar until just simmering. Pour over the chopped chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and add vanilla extract.

Assemble the tart

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes until set.

Serve with strawberries

Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top of the chilled tart before serving. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before serving. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors.

Storing and Serving

Once your tart has set, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties. Just be sure to cover it lightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any odors from the fridge, which could affect its flavor. If you're making this in advance for a special occasion, I recommend adding the fresh strawberries just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh.

When serving, consider pairing the tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This complements the rich chocolate and balances the sweetness with a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience. Drizzling a little balsamic glaze over the strawberries can also elevate the flavor profile with an unexpected twist; the acidity from the glaze enhances the fruits' juiciness.

Variations to Try

This tart recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can easily swap the strawberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries, which would lend their own unique flavors and tartness. Using assorted fruits not only alters the taste but also adds visual appeal, creating a colorful centerpiece on your dessert table. If you’re a fan of citrus, try adding a layer of orange zest to the chocolate filling for a refreshing tang.

You might also experiment by incorporating flavored liqueurs like Grand Marnier or rum into the chocolate mixture. Just a tablespoon will add depth and complexity, perfect for special occasions. If you're aiming for a more unique twist, consider infusing the cream with ingredients like lavender or mint, which can provide an aromatic lift that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can, but fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and presentation.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart and fill it the day before serving.

→ What type of chocolate is best for the filling?

Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich flavor.