Strawberry and Chocolate Tart

Name: Strawberry and Chocolate Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

I absolutely adore this Strawberry and Chocolate Tart! The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries is one that never fails to impress. I love how the tart crust provides a buttery base, while the smooth chocolate ganache and vibrant strawberries create a beautiful contrast. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it's a celebratory dessert or just a special treat for myself. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, allowing me to enjoy delicious flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:29:27.894Z

When I first made this Strawberry and Chocolate Tart, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it turned out. The chocolate ganache is made with just two ingredients, yet it yields a luxurious and silky filling. I remember the first bite; the tartness of the fresh strawberries perfectly balanced the sweetness of the chocolate, making each mouthful a delight to savor.

One tip I learned along the way is to let the ganache cool slightly before pouring it into the crust. This ensures that the chocolate doesn’t cook the strawberries, preserving their fresh flavor and beautiful color. Trust me, this little trick makes all the difference, and I can't wait for you to try it!

Why You Will Love This Tart
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy ganache that melts in your mouth
A stunning presentation that wows guests

The Importance of a Well-Crafted Tart Crust

The tart crust is the foundation of this dessert, and getting it right is crucial for a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy ganache. Use cold butter to ensure that your crust has a flaky texture. When mixing the flour and butter, stop once the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust.

After pressing the dough into the tart pan, it’s important to refrigerate it for at least 15 minutes. Chilling the crust before baking helps prevent it from shrinking in the oven. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; you want it to turn a lovely golden brown, around 20 minutes, but take care not to overbake, or it might develop a bitter flavor.

Creating the Perfect Chocolate Ganache

The ganache is a fantastic component of this tart, providing both richness and smoothness. Heating the cream until just simmering is key; too much heat can scald it, resulting in a grainy texture. Pouring the hot cream over the chocolate allows the heat to melt the chocolate evenly, so ensure the chocolate pieces are uniformly sized for consistent melting.

Once you stir the ganache, it should become glossy and smooth. If you find any lumps, simply return the mixture to a gentle heat and stir until homogeneous. Enhancing the ganache with vanilla extract not only adds depth but also balances the sweetness of the chocolate, making it more complex.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smooth baking experience.

For the Tart Crust

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

For the Ganache Filling

8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to wash the strawberries gently and dry them before slicing.

Instructions

Steps

Follow these simple steps for a delicious tart.

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled tart crust for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.

Make the Ganache

Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan until just simmering. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes. Stir until smooth and add the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the ganache into the cooled tart crust and smooth the top. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the ganache. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Strawberry and Chocolate Tart!

Pro Tips

For a more intense chocolate flavor, feel free to use dark chocolate for the ganache. You can also customize the topping with other berries if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This tart shines when served chilled, but I enjoy adding a drizzle of warm chocolate sauce over the top just before serving for an enticing contrast. For a more elegant presentation, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the tart. These additions can elevate the dessert and introduce new textures.

The fresh strawberries add vibrant color and flavor, so choose ripe, sweet ones for the best result. If you want to vary the fruits used, consider pairing the ganache with raspberries, blackberries, or even a layer of bananas for a different taste profile. Just make sure to adjust the flavors accordingly.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry and Chocolate Tart can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for gatherings. Prepare the tart crust and ganache the day before and assemble them the night before serving. Just store the assembled tart in the refrigerator, covered, to keep the crust crisp and the strawberries fresh.

If you're considering freezing this dessert, it's best to freeze the tart crust alone. Once baked and cooled, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. When you're ready to use it, allow it to thaw completely before filling with ganache to ensure the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this tart in advance?

Absolutely! This tart can be made a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What if I can't find fresh strawberries?

You can use other berries such as raspberries or blueberries as a substitute. They will pair just as beautifully with the chocolate.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best served chilled.

→ Can I freeze the tart?

While the tart can be frozen, it's best to freeze it without the strawberries on top. Once thawed, add fresh strawberries before serving.