Chocolate Strawberry Tart

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg yolk; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating desserts that not only taste indulgent but also look stunning on the table. This Chocolate Strawberry Tart is one of my favorite recipes because it combines rich, creamy chocolate with the vibrant freshness of strawberries. Every bite is a balance of flavors that's perfect for special occasions or simply a weekend treat. Plus, it's easier to make than you might think, making it a go-to recipe whenever I need a quick, yet classy dessert to impress my guests.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:25:06.321Z

When I first made this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could create such a spectacular dessert. The chocolate ganache filling pairs perfectly with fresh strawberries, making each slice a delight to savor. I experimented with different crusts, but a buttery shortbread crust is my favorite.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the tart chill in the fridge for at least an hour after assembling. This allows the ganache to set properly, giving the tart a clean slice and maintaining its shape when serving. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy ganache that melts in your mouth
Visually stunning, perfect for any occasion

      

Perfecting the Tart Crust

When making the crust for this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, it's essential to achieve the right texture. The dough should be crumbly yet cohesive when pressed into the tart pan. If you find your dough is too dry, a teaspoon of cold water can be added to help bind it together. After pressing it into the pan, remember to prick the bottom with a fork; this prevents bubbling during baking, giving you a smooth, even foundation for the creamy filling.

Baking the crust to a light golden color is crucial; it should be firm yet tender to the bite. Keep an eye on it as it bakes—the timing might vary slightly depending on your oven. If you see the edges browning too fast, cover them with strips of foil to prevent burning while the middle finishes baking. A well-executed crust will provide a contrast to the luscious filling and serve as the perfect base for the strawberries.

Crafting the Chocolate Filling

The key to a silky smooth ganache lies in the quality of your chocolate and the temperature of the cream. Using a high-quality dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa) enhances the richness of the filling. When heating the heavy cream, avoid boiling it; simmering is sufficient and helps the chocolate melt evenly. Stir continuously until the mixture is glossy and well combined, ensuring there are no lumps. You can also tweak the chocolate's sweetness by adjusting the amount of optional sugar based on your taste preferences.

For added complexity, consider infusing flavors into the cream before adding the chocolate. A few sprigs of fresh mint, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a splash of vanilla extract can elevate the ganache. If you decide to infuse, let the cream steep with your chosen flavor for a few minutes off the heat, then strain it before combining with the chocolate. This way, you can create a personalized filling that complements the strawberries wonderfully.

Serving and Storing the Tart

After chilling, the tart can be sliced more easily, giving you clean edges to showcase its layers. When serving, consider pairing the tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. You could also drizzle some melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle with crushed nuts for added texture. The contrast of temperatures between the cold tart and warm toppings brings an exciting experience to each bite.

If you have leftovers, the tart can be stored in the refrigerator for about three days. To keep the strawberries looking fresh, cover the tart gently to prevent moisture build-up. Freezing is not recommended due to the water content in the strawberries, which can turn mushy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy this tart within a few days for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this delicious tart:

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg yolk

For the Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

Once you have your ingredients, you're all set to start making this delightful tart!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up your own Chocolate Strawberry Tart:

Make the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until crumbly, then stir in the egg yolk. Press the dough into a tart pan evenly. Prick the bottom with a fork and refrigerate for 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until smooth. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before pouring it into the crust.

Assemble the Tart

Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the chocolate filling, sprinkling a little sugar over them if desired. Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set.

Serve

Once set, remove the tart from the pan, slice, and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and strawberries!

Enjoy your homemade Chocolate Strawberry Tart with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can drizzle some chocolate sauce on top of the strawberries before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this tart vegan, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free dark chocolate. The crust can be adjusted by replacing the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. These swaps maintain the tart's indulgent nature while making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Just ensure to chill the coconut milk thoroughly before whipping it for a light topping.

For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. This ensures the same texture and taste, allowing everyone to enjoy the dessert without the gluten. It's advisable to check that your chocolate is also gluten-free, especially when it comes to processed chocolate varieties.

Variations to Try

You can experiment with different fruits as toppings to give this tart a unique twist! Consider using raspberries, blackberries, or blueberries instead of strawberries, or even a combination of them. Each fruit brings its unique acidity and sweetness, harmonizing beautifully with the chocolate ganache. If you're a fan of citrus, zesting a little orange over the top can provide a refreshing balance to the chocolate.

Consider adding a layer of a flavored cream between the chocolate filling and strawberries. A lemon or almond-flavored cream can introduce new dimensions to the dessert. Just prepare it like the ganache, using cream and flavoring, letting it cool slightly before layering. This can elevate the flavor profile while still keeping the elegant appearance of the tart intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?

Yes, raspberries or blueberries would also work beautifully with this tart!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the crust a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

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

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make it gluten-free.