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 diced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; Fresh strawberries, for topping

Highlighted under: Soft Meals

I absolutely love making this Chocolate Strawberry Tart! It's a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the richness of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries. Each bite feels indulgent, yet refreshing, making it an ideal treat for any occasion. I've experimented with various variations, but this classic combination never fails to impress. The tart crust is buttery and flaky, while the chocolate filling is indulgently smooth. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a go-to dessert for gatherings!

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:29:34.169Z

Creating this Chocolate Strawberry Tart was a joyful experience for me. The moment I combined silky chocolate with fresh strawberries, I knew I had something special. It was essential to balance the flavors, which I achieved by incorporating a hint of vanilla and a dash of salt in the chocolate filling. This step elevates the taste and sharpens the chocolate flavor.

I also love how versatile this tart is; it can easily be dressed up for a fancy dinner or enjoyed casually during the week. Remember to let the tart chill thoroughly before serving—this will ensure the filling sets to perfection, making it easy to slice and serve with style.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with the sweetness of fresh strawberries
Buttery crust that provides the perfect crunchy base
A stunning dessert that turns heads at any gathering

Mastering the Tart Crust

The tart crust is crucial for the overall structure and flavor of your Chocolate Strawberry Tart. Using chilled butter is essential; it helps to create a flaky texture. As you cut in the butter, aim for pea-sized pieces to ensure that the crust remains tender after baking. If you find that your dough is too crumbly, adding a little more cold water—1 teaspoon at a time—can help it come together without becoming too sticky.

When rolling out your dough, dust your work surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking. If the dough feels soft and pliable, but you're having trouble keeping it in one piece, refrigerate it for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will firm up the butter, making it easier to work with. After placing it in the tart pan, remember to prick the bottom with a fork; this allows steam to escape and helps prevent a soggy crust.

The Perfect Chocolate Filling

Choosing the right chocolate for your tart filling is key to achieving the best flavor. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a rich, balanced taste. When melting the chocolate with cream, ensure the cream is just at the simmer stage—too much heat can lead to separation or a grainy texture. Stir the mixture gently until everything is glossy and smooth for a luxurious filling.

If you prefer a sweeter filling, feel free to adjust the sugar content to taste. Otherwise, the bittersweet chocolate paired with fresh strawberries offers a lovely contrast. Don't forget to add the butter last; this should be done off the heat to maintain its creamy texture and emulsion with the chocolate. This small step makes a big difference in the final richness of your filling!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

For the tart crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the chocolate filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Fresh strawberries, for topping

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create your tart:

Prepare the tart crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Bake the crust

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough and fit it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and back for 15-20 minutes until golden. Remove and let it cool completely.

Make the filling

In a saucepan, heat the cream until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, vanilla, and butter. Stir until smooth and combined.

Assemble the tart

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart crust, spreading it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until set.

Garnish and serve

Top with fresh strawberries before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tart!

Make sure to chill the tart well before serving for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate over the fresh strawberries before serving.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you're preparing this Chocolate Strawberry Tart in advance, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent the filling from absorbing any unwanted odors or moisture. I often make the crust a day prior and keep it wrapped tightly. This allows me to focus on the filling and garnishing when I'm ready to serve.

For longer storage, the tart can also be frozen before adding the fresh strawberries. Once it's completely cool, cover it in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. When you're ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then add the strawberries for a fresh finish.

Variations to Try

This recipe serves as a great base for countless variations. Experimenting with different types of chocolate can transform the flavor profile—milk chocolate offers a sweeter touch, while white chocolate can add a creamy element. You might also consider infusing the cream with a splash of espresso or orange zest for an unexpected twist.

If fresh strawberries aren’t available, feel free to substitute with other berries or fruit. Raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced kiwis make beautiful additions. Just be mindful of the sweetness level depending on the fruit you choose; some fruits may require a dash of extra sugar in the filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-made tart crust?

Yes, a pre-made tart crust can save time and still yield delicious results.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute dark chocolate?

You can use milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter filling.

→ Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the crust gluten-free.