Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Highlighted under: Modern Collection
I absolutely adore making this Chocolate Strawberry Tart! The fusion of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible dessert that's always a crowd-pleaser. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, and each bite feels like a celebration. Whenever I bake this tart, I’m reminded of summers spent picking strawberries, and the joy my family experiences when they take that first bite. If you're looking for a dessert that dazzles both in flavor and presentation, this is it!
When I first made this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of a buttery crust, luscious chocolate filling, and fresh strawberries is simply magical. I found that allowing the chocolate to cool slightly before adding the strawberries helps maintain their vibrant color and keeps them from wilting.
As I dust powdered sugar on top just before serving, I can’t help but feel giddy. I’ve perfected the art of making this tart over the years, and I can confidently say it’s a surefire hit at gatherings. The key is to balance the bittersweet chocolate with the fresh fruit's sweetness, creating a dessert that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
Why You'll Love This Tart
- Decadent chocolate flavor perfectly balanced with fresh strawberries.
- Rich and creamy filling that feels indulgent yet refreshing.
- Visually stunning dessert that impresses friends and family.
Crust Techniques
The crust of the Chocolate Strawberry Tart holds everything together and adds a delightful chocolatey crunch. When mixing the dry ingredients, ensure they are well combined to prevent any clumps of cocoa powder from forming. I find that using cold, softened butter is essential; it helps create a flaky texture. If the dough feels too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water, one at a time, until it holds together.
Pressing the dough evenly into the tart pan is crucial for a uniform bake. I typically start by pressing the dough into the corners and then work my way up the sides. This ensures that you don't have gaps that would collapse during baking. When baking, keep an eye on the crust; it should be firm to the touch and lightly puffed after 15 minutes. Allowing it to cool completely ensures a crisp tart base ready for the rich filling.
Filling Insights
Making the chocolate filling is a key moment in this recipe. Using dark chocolate with around 60-70% cocoa content provides a perfect balance of richness without being overly sweet. When heating the cream, do not let it boil; you want it to steam just before bubbling, which activates the chocolate's melting properties beautifully. This creates a smooth, glossy ganache that will set perfectly once cooled.
After incorporating the sugar and vanilla, let the filling cool slightly before pouring it into the crust. This prevents the heat from the filling from bouncing off the crust, which could make it soggy. If you prefer a sweeter filling, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sugar, but make sure to taste it first! This filling can also be made a day in advance, just be sure to cover it tightly to keep it fresh.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Chocolate Strawberry Tart:
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Make sure to prepare fresh strawberries right before serving!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to bake your Chocolate Strawberry Tart:
Prepare the crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then allow it to cool.
Make the filling
In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth. Mix in granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
Assemble the tart
Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. Once set, arrange the halved strawberries on top and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate filling. It harmonizes beautifully with the strawberries.
Decorating Your Tart
When it comes to decorating the tart, fresh strawberries are your best friend. Select ripe, firm strawberries, as they provide both flavor and a vibrant appearance. Before placing them on top, I recommend giving them a quick wash and gently patting them dry to remove excess moisture. This will help the strawberries adhere better to the filling and look more appealing.
Dusting the tart with powdered sugar just before serving not only adds a beautiful touch but can also enhance the tart’s overall sweetness. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a drizzle of melted chocolate over the strawberries for an extra decadent finish. This not only adds flavor but also creates an eye-catching contrast against the vibrant red of the strawberries.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
To store any leftovers (if there are any!), cover the tart loosely with plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to three days, but I recommend enjoying it within two for the freshest taste and texture. If you’re preparing it ahead of time, you can make the crust and filling a day in advance, but assemble it with strawberries just before serving to maintain the crust's integrity.
This tart pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a twist, consider serving it alongside a drizzle of balsamic reduction, which complements the strawberries' sweetness with a tangy depth. Each of these additions elevates the dessert, making it not just a treat but a truly memorable experience for everyone at the table.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, a pre-made tart crust can save time and still taste great!
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I substitute other fruits?
Absolutely! Raspberries or blueberries can work well as substitutes for strawberries.
→ Is this tart gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Chocolate Strawberry Tart
I absolutely adore making this Chocolate Strawberry Tart! The fusion of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates an irresistible dessert that's always a crowd-pleaser. It’s surprisingly easy to whip up, and each bite feels like a celebration. Whenever I bake this tart, I’m reminded of summers spent picking strawberries, and the joy my family experiences when they take that first bite. If you're looking for a dessert that dazzles both in flavor and presentation, this is it!
Created by: Lottie Pennington
Recipe Type: Modern Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and salt, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then allow it to cool.
In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over low heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth. Mix in granulated sugar and vanilla extract.
Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust, smoothing the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set. Once set, arrange the halved strawberries on top and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Extra Tips
- For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate filling. It harmonizes beautifully with the strawberries.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 45mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g