Chocolate Strawberry Tarts are elegant, bite-sized desserts that pair a buttery tart crust with a smooth, rich chocolate ganache filling, all topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. This classic combination of chocolate and berries creates a luxurious treat perfect for special occasions or refined gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert offers a beautiful balance of textures and flavors: crisp crust, velvety chocolate, and refreshing fruit. It’s not only visually striking but also simple to prepare with just a few components. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these tarts deliver indulgence in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flour
granulated sugar
unsalted butter
egg yolk (optional, for richer pastry)
salt
dark or semi-sweet chocolate (good quality)
heavy cream
vanilla extract
fresh strawberries
optional: strawberry jam or fruit glaze for topping

Directions

Make the tart shells:
Combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles crumbs. Add a splash of cold water or an egg yolk if needed. Press into tartlet pans. Chill for 20–30 minutes.
Blind bake the crusts:
Line the pastry with parchment and baking weights. Bake in a preheated oven until golden. Remove weights and let cool fully.
Prepare the ganache:
Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Fill the tarts:
Spoon or pour the chocolate ganache into the cooled tart shells. Gently tap to level. Chill until set (about 1 hour).
Add strawberries:
Once the ganache is firm, top with halved or sliced strawberries. Optional: brush strawberries with warmed jam or glaze for shine.
Chill and serve:
Keep refrigerated until ready to serve, but bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8 small tarts or 1 large 9-inch tart
Prep time: 25–30 minutes
Baking time: 15–20 minutes
Chilling time: 60–90 minutes
Total time: ~2 hours

Variations

Use a chocolate cookie crust for a no-bake alternative.
Substitute raspberries or mixed berries for strawberries.
Add a layer of strawberry jam under the ganache for more fruit flavor.
Flavor ganache with liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Chambord) for an adult twist.
Use white or milk chocolate for a sweeter variation.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Tart shells can be frozen (baked or unbaked). Assembled tarts do not freeze well due to fresh fruit and ganache texture.
Serving: Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make the tart shells in advance?

Yes, you can bake the shells a day or two ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

2. What’s the best chocolate for the ganache?

Use high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate (60–70% cocoa). Avoid chocolate chips, as they contain stabilizers.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are preferred for appearance and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain completely before topping.

4. My ganache didn’t set — what went wrong?

The ganache may have too much cream or not enough chocolate. Ensure the ratio is balanced and chill thoroughly.

5. Can I use a store-bought crust?

Yes. Pre-baked tart shells or cookie crusts can save time and still taste great.

6. How do I get a glossy finish on the strawberries?

Brush with warmed, strained strawberry jam or a neutral fruit glaze.

7. How do I prevent the crust from shrinking?

Chill the dough before baking and avoid overworking it. Use pie weights during blind baking.

8. Can I make a single large tart instead?

Yes, use a 9-inch tart pan and follow the same instructions. Chill longer to set the ganache fully.

9. Is this dessert gluten-free?

Not as written. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend or cookie crust alternative.

10. What’s the best way to slice a large tart cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry. Clean the knife between cuts for neat slices.

Conclusion

Chocolate Strawberry Tarts are a stunning dessert that combines elegance and indulgence in one simple recipe. Whether you make them as mini tarts or a full-sized showstopper, they’re sure to impress. The crisp crust, silky chocolate, and fresh strawberries create a timeless combination that will leave your guests delighted.

Chocolate Strawberry Tarts

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These Chocolate Strawberry Tarts are a decadent dessert featuring a rich chocolate ganache filling topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. Perfect for special occasions or as a romantic treat.