Chocolate Strawberry Tart

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 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 teaspoon salt; 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love creating desserts that combine rich flavors with fresh ingredients, and this Chocolate Strawberry Tart is no exception. Every time I make it, the blend of velvety chocolate and juicy strawberries never fails to impress my friends and family. The tart crust is perfectly buttery, while the filling is indulgently creamy. This dessert is incredibly simple yet shows off beautifully on any occasion, making it a go-to recipe for celebrations or just a special treat at home.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:16:08.285Z

The first time I made this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, I wasn’t sure how well the flavors would come together. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the result! The combination of rich chocolate ganache and sweet little strawberries creates a delightful contrast that is simply irresistible.

One of my favorite tips is to allow the tart to chill for at least an hour before serving. This step not only helps the ganache set beautifully but also allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

Perfecting the Tart Crust

The tart crust is the foundation of this dessert, and its buttery flavor complements the rich chocolate filling beautifully. To ensure a crisp crust, make sure to mix the dry ingredients and butter thoroughly until you achieve a sandy texture. This helps to form a stable structure when baked. If your dough feels too dry, a teaspoon of cold water can help bring it together without affecting the consistency.

When pressing the dough into the tart pan, take the time to evenly distribute it along the bottom and sides. This prevents it from shrinking during baking. Use the back of a measuring cup or your fingers to create a consistent thickness. Remember to poke the bottom of the crust with a fork before baking; this prevents bubbles and ensures even cooking, leading to a beautifully smooth base.

Crafting a Silky Chocolate Filling

The key to achieving a silky texture for your chocolate filling lies in the heating of the cream. Heat it gently until just simmering, avoiding a boil, as overheating can lead to a grainy chocolate mixture. Once added to the chopped chocolate, let it sit for a minute before stirring. This step allows the chocolate to melt gently, resulting in a glossy and smooth filling that pours easily into the tart crust.

For a deeper flavor profile, consider using a mix of semi-sweet and dark chocolate. You can adjust the chocolate's sweetness by mixing in a little bit of milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter filling. Just be sure to keep the total amount of chocolate the same, as this affects the consistency of your tart.

Serving and Storing Tips

This Chocolate Strawberry Tart is best enjoyed chilled, allowing the filling to fully set and the flavors to meld. To serve, run a sharp knife under hot water before slicing for clean cuts. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, though I recommend consuming it within two days for the best flavor and texture.

If you're looking to make this tart in advance, it can be prepared a day ahead. Simply assemble the tart and keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to add the strawberries right before serving. This ensures that they stay fresh and vibrant, enhancing not just the flavor but also the visual appeal of your dessert.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

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

For the Chocolate Filling

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

For Topping

1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Make the Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture. Stir in the egg yolk until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the prepared tart crust for 15-20 minutes, or until set. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Prepare the Filling

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and immediately add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute before stirring until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart crust, smoothing the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the filling to set.

Add the Strawberries

Once the filling has set, top the tart with halved strawberries. Garnish with mint leaves if desired.

Serve

Slice the tart and serve chilled for a delightful dessert!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, consider using dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet. Additionally, you can add a pinch of sea salt to the ganache for a contrasting flavor boost.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative for the tart crust, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum to maintain the crust’s texture. Additionally, for a vegan option, consider using a plant-based butter and substituting heavy cream with coconut cream; just ensure that the chocolate you select is dairy-free.

For those who want to add a layer of flavor, consider incorporating a hint of espresso powder into the chocolate filling. This will enhance the chocolate flavor without overpowering the dessert. Just dissolve a teaspoon of espresso powder in the cream as you heat it, and follow the same procedure. It adds a delightful depth that's sure to impress.

Variations and Seasonal Twists

While strawberries are the star fruit for this tart, consider switching up your toppings based on the season. In the fall, layer on thin slices of fresh pears or figs, drizzling them with a balsamic reduction for an elegant twist. During the winter months, pomegranate seeds can add a festive pop of color and a burst of tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate.

For an even more decadent dessert, drizzle a rich chocolate ganache over the top after adding the strawberries. Simply make another batch of filling but use double the amount of cream to chocolate ratio for a pourable ganache that elegantly cascades over the entire tart, offering a luxurious finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries as a substitute. Just ensure they are thoroughly thawed and drained before adding them to the tart.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best served chilled.

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the crust in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before adding the filling.

→ Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?

Absolutely, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your chocolate is also gluten-free.