Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines elegance and simplicity, you’ve come to the right place! This Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is a true gem in my recipe collection. It brings together buttery tart shells, luscious pastry cream, and homemade strawberry jam for a treat that’s just bursting with flavor. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to brighten up your weeknight dinner, these little beauties will surely impress!

Making these tartlets is not only rewarding but also a wonderful way to enjoy fresh strawberries at their best. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing with family and friends, making every gathering just a little sweeter!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Don’t be intimidated! This recipe may sound fancy, but it’s straightforward and perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these tartlets! They can help with assembling the layers, making it a fun activity for everyone.
• Make Ahead: The tartlet shells and strawberry jam can be made in advance. Just fill them before serving for a fresh taste!
• Bursting with Flavor: Each bite offers a delightful combination of creamy sweetness and fresh strawberry goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delightful strawberry tartlets. You’ll find everything you need right here!

For the tartlet shells:

• 1 Pâte Sucrée dough recipe (sweet shortcrust pastry)

For the strawberry jam:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, chopped
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the pastry cream:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 egg yolks
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 fresh strawberries, halved

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some delicious variations you can try:

• Add other fruits: Mix in blueberries or raspberries for a colorful twist.
• Use different jams: Swap out the strawberry jam for raspberry or apricot if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Change the cream: Try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Decorate differently: Top with whipped cream or shaved chocolate for an extra touch of indulgence.

How to Make Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tartlet Shells

Start by cutting your Pâte Sucrée dough into 12 portions. Press each piece into tartlet pans using your fingers. It’s okay if you need to patch any cracks—just use extra dough! Freezing the shells helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 2: Bake the Tartlet Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F. After freezing the shells, it’s time to bake! Prick each shell with a fork to let steam escape. Line them with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. This step prevents them from puffing up while baking.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Jam

In a saucepan, combine your chopped strawberries and sugar. Cook this mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the berries release their juices—about 5 minutes should do it! Simmer uncovered on low heat until thickened; this will take around 20 minutes. Let it cool completely before using.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry Cream

In another large saucepan, mix sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until it simmers gently. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and cornstarch to create your custard base. Tempering the eggs is crucial here—slowly add some hot liquid while whisking constantly so they don’t scramble!

Step 5: Thicken Your Pastry Cream

Gradually stir your tempered yolks back into the saucepan while stirring constantly until thickened—this should take about 5-8 minutes. Once ready, transfer it to a clean bowl, cover it with plastic wrap directly on top (to prevent skin), and refrigerate until chilled—about two hours will do nicely.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tartlets

Now comes the fun part! Spread a layer of cooled strawberry jam in each tartlet shell. Then pipe your chilled pastry cream over that beautiful layer of jam—using a piping bag makes this step super easy! Finish off by garnishing each tartlet with fresh strawberry halves.

These Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets are now ready to wow your guests or family at any gathering—or just as an indulgent treat for yourself! Enjoy every creamy bite filled with sweet strawberry flavor.

Pro Tips for Making Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Creating the perfect strawberry tartlets can be a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries will provide the best flavor and texture. Look for vibrant, ripe berries that are firm to the touch for a burst of sweetness in every bite.

• Chill your dough: Chilling the Pâte Sucrée dough before rolling it out helps prevent it from shrinking during baking. This step is crucial for achieving beautifully shaped tartlet shells.

• Don’t skip the egg tempering: Tempering the egg yolks by slowly mixing in hot liquid prevents them from cooking too quickly, ensuring a smooth pastry cream without any curdles.

• Let your tartlets cool completely: Allowing the tartlet shells to cool fully before filling them with jam and pastry cream ensures that they stay crisp and won’t become soggy.

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a drizzle of chocolate can add an exciting twist to your strawberry tartlets.

How to Serve Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Presentation is key when serving your strawberry tartlets, making them not just a treat for the taste buds but also for the eyes. Here are some ideas to make your dessert shine!

Garnishes

• Mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves on top of each tartlet add a pop of color and a refreshing hint of flavor.

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance visual appeal while adding just a touch of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the strawberries.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the tartness of the strawberries perfectly, creating a delightful contrast.

• Whipped coconut cream: For a lighter option, serve whipped coconut cream on the side. Its subtle sweetness pairs beautifully with fruity desserts.

• Fruit salad: A simple fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can brighten up your dessert table while offering additional freshness alongside your tartlets.

• Herbed tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, provides a soothing finish to your meal, balancing out the sweetness of the tartlets perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress family and friends with your delicious strawberry tartlets! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make the individual components ahead of time, allowing you to assemble them just before serving for a delightful, fresh dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• If the shells become soggy, enjoy them as a deconstructed tartlet by layering jam and pastry cream in a bowl.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze the tartlet shells separately from the filling.
• Wrap cooled tartlet shells tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For the strawberry jam, store it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 6 months in the freezer.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen tartlet shells, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Do not freeze filled tartlets, as the cream may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I make Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe without fresh strawberries?

Absolutely! You can substitute fresh strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a similar treat. Just follow the same jam-making process.

How long does it take to prepare Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe?

The total preparation time is about 1 hour, including baking and chilling. It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon baking!

Can I use store-bought pastry cream for this recipe?

While homemade pastry cream elevates the flavor, you can use store-bought if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s a quality brand!

What can I serve with strawberry tartlets?

These tartlets pair beautifully with whipped coconut cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an added touch of indulgence.

How should I serve Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe?

Serve these tartlets immediately after assembling to enjoy their fresh flavors. They’re perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat after dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets! There’s something truly special about creating your own pastries filled with creamy goodness and vibrant fruit. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a sweet craving, these tartlets are sure to delight everyone who tries them. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!