Strawberry tarts are a delightful way to celebrate the sweet, juicy flavors of fresh strawberries. Whether you’re planning a summer gathering or just want a beautiful dessert to enjoy at home, making a strawberry tart from scratch is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, from preparing the buttery crust to arranging the luscious strawberries on top.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Tart Crust
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces
– 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling
– 6 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/3 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 1/2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For the Glaze (Optional)
– 2 tablespoons strawberry or apricot jam
– 1 tablespoon water
Step 1: Make the Tart Crust
Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a food processor. Add the cold butter pieces and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing until the dough just starts to come together when pressed between your fingers. Avoid overworking the dough to keep it flaky.
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and shape it into a disk. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. This chilling step helps the dough relax and prevents shrinking during baking.
Once chilled, roll the dough out into a circle about 12 to 13 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a 9 or 10-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, pressing it gently into the sides and bottom. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent puffing.
To blind bake, line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated 400°F (204°C) oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then bake for another 5 to 8 minutes until the crust is golden and dry. Let it cool completely before filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until well combined and light.
Spread this creamy filling evenly into the cooled tart shell. This smooth, sweet filling perfectly complements the fresh strawberries and buttery crust.
Step 3: Arrange the Strawberries
Now comes the fun part—decorating! Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the cream filling in concentric circles or any pattern you like. You can fan the slices out for a beautiful presentation or pile them high for a rustic look.
Step 4: Add a Shiny Glaze (Optional)
To give your tart a professional glossy finish, warm the jam with a tablespoon of water in a microwave or on the stove until it bubbles. Brush this glaze gently over the strawberries. This step not only makes the tart look stunning but also helps preserve the freshness of the fruit.
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Tart
– Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
– Keep your butter and water cold when making the crust to ensure a flaky texture.
– Don’t skip chilling the dough; it makes rolling easier and prevents shrinking.
– Blind baking the crust avoids sogginess when adding the moist filling.
– For a rustic twist, try folding the edges of the dough over the strawberries instead of using a tart pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your strawberry tart chilled, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s a perfect dessert for summer parties, brunches, or just a sweet treat to brighten your day.
Making a strawberry tart is a rewarding baking project that yields a stunning and delicious dessert. With a crisp crust, creamy filling, and fresh fruit topping, it’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to have a slice. Enjoy the process and the delightful results!
A strawberry tart is a simple yet elegant dessert that brings joy with every bite. Happy baking!