Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
Highlighted under: Soft Recipes
I’ve always had a soft spot for desserts that combine chocolate and fruit, and these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets are no exception! Each tartlet is a delightful balance of rich chocolate filling and fresh, juicy strawberries, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. I love how the crispy tart crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the smooth chocolate melts in my mouth. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the end result is nothing short of spectacular. I can’t wait to share this with you!
When I first made these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the flavors complemented each other. The combination of creamy chocolate against the tartness of the strawberries created a delicious contrast. One of my tips is to let the chocolate filling cool slightly before pouring it into the tart shells to ensure a perfect texture when serving!
Each bite brings a burst of flavor and a textural harmony that elevates this dessert from ordinary to extraordinary. Plus, they look so impressive on a dessert platter, making them a show-stopper for friends and family gatherings. I truly believe you’ll love every bite!
Why You Will Love These Tartlets
- Indulgent rich chocolate taste with a fruity freshness
- Perfectly balanced between crunchy, creamy, and fruity
- Great for special occasions or as a delightful everyday treat
The Tart Crust: A Crucial Base
The tart crust is essential for achieving the right balance of textures in your Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets. By incorporating unsweetened cocoa powder, not only does it enhance the chocolate flavor, but it also provides a beautiful dark color that contrasts strikingly with the fresh strawberries. Ensure your butter is well-chilled; this prevents the crust from becoming greasy and helps create that perfect flaky texture. Mix until the dough resembles coarse crumbs, as overmixing can lead to a tough crust.
When rolling out the dough, sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface to prevent sticking. If you don't have tartlet pans, you can also use a muffin tin, but make sure to adjust the baking time since the smaller molds might cook faster. A light pressing of the crust can help it hold its shape while baking, so don’t skip the pricking step to prevent bubbling.
Crafting the Chocolate Filling
The quality of chocolate you choose significantly impacts the filling's final taste. Opt for a dark chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa for a deep, rich flavor. When heating the cream, keep an eye on it to prevent scorching; it's ready when small bubbles form around the edges. Pour it over the chopped chocolate, allowing it to sit undisturbed for a minute. This technique, known as 'pastry cream infusion,' helps the chocolate melt slowly and evenly, resulting in a silky, glossy filling.
For a twist, consider adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of espresso to the filling to accentuate the chocolate's richness. You can also swap the vanilla extract for almond extract if you're looking for a different flavor profile. If your filling isn't as smooth as you'd like, you can always use a hand blender to achieve that desired consistency.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to prepare your Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets:
For the Tartlets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon cold water
For the Filling
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Mint leaves, for garnish
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor and texture!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets:
Prepare the Tart Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the diced butter and mix 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 at least 30 minutes.
Bake the Tartlets
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into rounds to fit into your tartlet pans. Press the dough into the pans and prick the bottoms with a fork. Bake for 15-20 minutes until firm. Allow to cool.
Make the Chocolate Filling
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and add vanilla extract.
Assemble the Tartlets
Once the tartlet shells are cooled, fill them generously with the chocolate mixture. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
Garnish and Serve
Top the set chocolate filling with halved strawberries and garnish with mint leaves. Serve chilled for maximum flavor.
Enjoy every delectable bite of your homemade tartlets!
Pro Tips
- For a truly decadent experience, try using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. This will enhance the rich flavor of the tartlets significantly.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you want to prepare these tartlets in advance, you can make the crust and filling separately. The tart crust can be made up to a day ahead of time and kept wrapped tightly in plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Before using, let it come to room temperature for easier handling. As for the chocolate filling, it can be made a couple of days in advance as well. Once prepared, store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness.
As a serving suggestion, these tartlets are best enjoyed fresh but can also be stored in the fridge for about 2-3 days. Just be mindful that the strawberries might release some juices over time, causing the crust to become a tad soggy. If you prefer, add the strawberries just before serving to keep the tartlets crisp.
Variations to Try
Feel free to customize your tartlets based on seasonal fruits or personal preferences. Instead of strawberries, you can use raspberries, blueberries, or even slices of ripe bananas for a different flavor profile. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and acidity that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate filling. For a more decadent twist, consider layering in a thin layer of cream cheese mixed with sugar beneath the chocolate filling to add a tangy contrast.
If you're looking for a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour, ensuring to adjust the liquid slightly since almond flour can yield a different texture. Just keep in mind that gluten-free crusts may be a bit softer, so handle with care while removing from the pans.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different fruits for topping?
Absolutely! Berries like raspberries or blueberries work beautifully as well.
→ How do I store the tartlets?
Keep them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the tart shell in advance?
Yes, the tart shells can be made a day ahead and stored wrapped in plastic wrap.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You might use coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option.
Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
I’ve always had a soft spot for desserts that combine chocolate and fruit, and these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets are no exception! Each tartlet is a delightful balance of rich chocolate filling and fresh, juicy strawberries, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. I love how the crispy tart crust adds a satisfying crunch, while the smooth chocolate melts in my mouth. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, and the end result is nothing short of spectacular. I can’t wait to share this with you!
Created by: Aileen Prescott
Recipe Type: Soft Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 tartlets
What You'll Need
For the Tartlets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon cold water
For the Filling
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Topping
- Fresh strawberries, halved
- Mint leaves, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the diced butter and mix 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 at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into rounds to fit into your tartlet pans. Press the dough into the pans and prick the bottoms with a fork. Bake for 15-20 minutes until firm. Allow to cool.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and let it sit for a minute. Stir until smooth and add vanilla extract.
Once the tartlet shells are cooled, fill them generously with the chocolate mixture. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
Top the set chocolate filling with halved strawberries and garnish with mint leaves. Serve chilled for maximum flavor.
Extra Tips
- For a truly decadent experience, try using a high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. This will enhance the rich flavor of the tartlets significantly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 38g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g