Chocolate Strawberry Tart

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Whipped cream, for serving; Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Inspiration

I can say without a doubt that this Chocolate Strawberry Tart has become one of my favorite desserts to prepare. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a luscious balance that I can't resist. Each bite offers a creamy decadence that feels truly indulgent while still being surprisingly easy to make. It’s perfect for impressing guests or for a cozy night in. With just a little effort, I can whip up this delightful treat and enjoy its beautiful presentation.

Created by

Jacqueline Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:13:34.556Z

When I first tried making a chocolate tart, I wasn’t sure how it would turn out, but the process turned into a delightful surprise. I learned that letting the crust chill before baking makes a huge difference in texture, resulting in a perfectly flaky base that pairs wonderfully with the rich filling. The vibrant strawberries add the perfect touch of freshness, making every slice a symphony of flavors.

One of my favorite moments was when I served this tart at a small gathering. Seeing the smiles on my friends’ faces as they took their first bites was priceless. I discovered that adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates the chocolate notes, creating a surprisingly harmonious blend. It’s a recipe I’ll keep coming back to!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Delicate crust that adds the perfect crunch
A stunning centerpiece for any gathering

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of the Chocolate Strawberry Tart lies in its buttery crust, which balances the richness of the chocolate filling beautifully. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder creates a deep, chocolatey flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries. It's essential to use unsweetened cocoa powder to prevent the tart from becoming overly sweet, ensuring each component shines through.

When selecting strawberries, opt for vibrant, ripe berries that are firm and fragrant. Fresh strawberries not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a burst of flavor that cuts through the tartness of the chocolate. Always hull the strawberries properly; this helps in getting clean, uniform slices that will sit neatly atop the tart.

Perfecting the Baking Process

Baking the tart crust just right is crucial for achieving a delectable texture. When pressed into the tart pan, the dough should be evenly distributed to avoid uneven cooking. Keep an eye on the crust during baking; it should be set and slightly firm to the touch after 20 minutes. If you notice it puffing up, gently press it down with a spatula to keep the surface level for an even filling.

Letting the crust cool completely on a wire rack is vital before adding the chocolate filling. This cooling process helps maintain a crisp texture; a warm crust can lead to a soggy bottom once the rich filling is poured in. If you're short on time, placing the tart in the refrigerator can accelerate the cooling process.

Serving and Storing Tips

For an impressive presentation, serve the Chocolate Strawberry Tart chilled, allowing the chocolate filling to firm up nicely. If you're preparing ahead of time, you can make the tart a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator, covered loosely with plastic wrap to prevent moisture buildup, which can affect texture. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.

If you have leftovers, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. This tart does not freeze well due to the delicate nature of the strawberry topping, so it's best enjoyed fresh. When serving, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavors even further.

Ingredients

Gather these delightful ingredients to create your tart:

For the crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg yolk

For the filling

8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Whipped cream, for serving
Sea salt, for garnish (optional)

With these ingredients ready, let’s dive into making our tart!

Instructions

Let’s prepare this luscious chocolate strawberry tart step by step:

Make the crust

In a bowl, mix the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and the egg yolk, then mix until the dough forms. Press it into a tart pan evenly and chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the crust

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

Prepare the filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Mix in sugar and vanilla extract.

Assemble the tart

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart crust, smoothing the top. Refrigerate until set, about 2 hours.

Finish with strawberries

Once set, top the tart with sliced strawberries. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt if desired.

Enjoy each slice of this exquisite dessert!

Pro Tips

For best results, ensure your chocolate is high quality. Adding a bit of espresso powder to the filling can intensify the flavor of the chocolate.

Variations to Try

While the classic combination of chocolate and strawberries is unbeatable, you might experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a seasonal twist. Citrus zest, such as orange or lemon, can also be added to the filling for an exciting flavor contrast. Just make sure that any additional liquids do not affect the filling's consistency, as it needs to set firmly.

For a more decadent experience, consider incorporating a layer of ganache on top of the chocolate filling before adding the strawberries. Simply melt equal parts chocolate and heavy cream to create a rich ganache that can be poured over the tart to add an extra layer of flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the crust shrinks while baking, this may be due to overworking the dough or not resting it long enough before baking. Next time, ensure you let the dough chill for at least 30 minutes. Additionally, be mindful not to stretch the dough when pressing it into the pan, as this can also lead to shrinking.

For those concerned about achieving the perfect filling consistency, ensure your cream is heated just to a gentle simmer, avoiding boiling. If the chocolate doesn't melt smoothly, you can return the saucepan to low heat for a moment while whisking until completely combined.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for their flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before topping the tart.

→ How long can I store the tart?

The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use different fruits for topping?

Absolutely! You can use raspberries, blueberries, or even a mix of berries for a colorful presentation.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.