Chocolate Strawberry Tart

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Home Baking Recipes

When I set out to make this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, I knew I wanted to create something truly special. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries always excites me, and this tart elevates it to a whole new level. What I love about this recipe is how simple it is to put together, yet it looks incredibly elegant. The crust is buttery and flaky, while the creamy chocolate filling pairs perfectly with fresh strawberries on top. This dessert is sure to impress at any gathering.

Created by

Charlotte Wilson

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:05:34.414Z

While experimenting with various tart recipes, I discovered the importance of letting the chocolate filling cool slightly before adding the strawberries. This small step prevents the strawberries from wilting and allows them to maintain their fresh, vibrant flavor. I remember the first time I brought this tart to a family gathering—it was gone in minutes, with everyone asking for the recipe!

Using rich, high-quality dark chocolate for the filling truly makes a difference in taste. I learned that tempering the chocolate just right helps create a silky texture that melts in your mouth. Trust me—you’ll want to serve this dessert at every chance you get!

        Why You'll Love This Tart
        Decadent chocolate flavor balanced with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that complements the crisp tart crust
Visually stunning, making it perfect for special occasions

      

Understanding the Tart Crust

The tart crust is the foundation of this dessert, providing both texture and flavor. Using chilled butter is crucial; it keeps the crust flaky by preventing the fat from melting into the flour too quickly. Make sure to mix until you achieve coarse crumbs, as overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust. If you have time, let the crust rest in the refrigerator longer than 30 minutes; this can enhance its flavor and texture.

When rolling out the dough, use a light hand to prevent it from becoming too thin or overworked. Aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. A floured surface and rolling pin will help prevent sticking. Pricking the bottom of the shell is essential to avoid bubbles forming during baking; a fork works perfectly for this. Watch closely while baking; the crust is ready when the edges start to turn golden.

Techniques for the Chocolate Filling

Creating the chocolate filling requires careful attention to heat. Heating the cream until just simmering allows the chocolate to melt smoothly without becoming grainy. Always remove the saucepan from the heat before adding chocolate; this prevents overheating, which can ruin the chocolate’s texture. Stirring continuously until the mixture is glossy ensures a creamy filling free of lumps. If your filling appears too thick, you can whisk in a little extra cream until desired consistency is reached.

For a richer flavor, consider using a higher cocoa content chocolate. Dark chocolate (70% cacao or higher) will enhance the dessert's overall depth. If desired, you can experiment by adding a splash of espresso or almond extract to the filling, which can beautifully complement the chocolate. Ensure the filling is completely cooled before pouring it into the tart shell; this prevents the heat from melting the crust and ensures a perfect layered presentation.

Serving and Storing Your Tart

Once assembled, allow the tart to set completely, which ideally takes about 30 minutes in the fridge. If you plan to serve it later, the tart can be made a day in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. Just cover it with plastic wrap once the chocolate has set, and add the strawberries right before serving to maintain their freshness. This way, you can enjoy a crisp crust, creamy filling, and plump berries every time.

If you have leftover tart, store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that strawberries may weep over time and affect the texture of the filling. For an alternative, you can substitute the strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor combination. Should freezing be necessary, slice the tart into portions first, as whole tarts can lose their texture when thawed.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Chocolate Strawberry Tart:

Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

Chocolate Filling

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

Topping

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Tart:

Make the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. With a pastry cutter, mix in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Bake the Tart Shell

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the tart dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 20 minutes, until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sugar until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, vanilla extract, and butter. Stir until smooth.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart shell, smoothing it out. Allow it to cool at room temperature or refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.

Add the Strawberries

Once the filling has set, top with halved strawberries, arranging them as desired. Garnish with mint leaves if using.

Enjoy your delightful tart with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar on top before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're in need of a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This is a straightforward swap that maintains the crust's integrity, though texture may slightly differ. Additionally, coconut oil can replace butter for a dairy-free version, which introduces a subtle coconut flavor.

For the filling, if dark chocolate isn’t available, semisweet chocolate can be a suitable alternative. The sweetness level will change, potentially leading to a sweeter tart, so adjust sugar levels if necessary. To enhance the tart, try mixing different types of chocolate for a layered flavor or choose higher percentage chocolate for a bolder taste.

Presentation Ideas

The visual appeal of the tart is as important as its taste. Consider slicing the strawberries into thin, even pieces and arranging them in a fan shape for a stunning presentation. Drizzling a little melted chocolate over the top not only adds elegance but also a touch of extra flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, a dusting of edible gold leaf or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate this dessert from simple to luxurious.

For serving, pair each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche, enhancing the creamy texture and providing a delightful contrast to the tart sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can also complement the rich flavors beautifully, making each bite a luscious experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different fruits for the topping?

Absolutely! This tart works well with raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced bananas.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart crust a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until you're ready to fill it.

→ What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the richest flavor.