Delicious Strawberry Tart - Homemade Dessert Recipe

There's something truly special about a strawberry tart. This elegant dessert combines a buttery crust, creamy filling, and fresh strawberries for a delightful treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're a seasoned home baker or just starting out, making a strawberry tart at home is a rewarding experience that is sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

Before we get started, let's gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Fresh, high-quality strawberries are key to making the best start possible.

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For the Topping:

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1/4 cup apricot jam (optional, for glaze)
• Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Making the Tart Crust

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

Instructions:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.

2. Cut in the Butter:

• Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add the Egg Yolk:

• Mix in the egg yolk until evenly distributed.

4. Add Cold Water:

• Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.

5. Form the Dough:

• Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

6. Roll Out the Dough:

• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough into the pan and trim any excess.

7. Chill Again:

• Place the tart shell in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes before baking.

2. Creating the Filling

Ingredients:

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Heat the Milk:

• In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Do not boil.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar and cornstarch.

3. Whisk in Egg Yolks:

• Add the egg yolks to the sugar mixture and whisk until smooth.

4. Temper the Egg Mixture:

• Gradually pour about 1/2 cup of the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

5. Combine and Cook:

• Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.

6. Add Flavorings:

• Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter until smooth.

7. Cool the Cream:

• Transfer the pastry cream to a bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until chilled.

3. Assembling the Tart

Instructions:

1. Pre-Bake the Crust:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the chilled tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the crust to cool completely.

2. Fill the Tart:

• Once the crust is cool, spread the chilled pastry cream evenly over the bottom.

3. Arrange the Strawberries:

• Arrange the halved strawberries on top of the pastry cream in a decorative pattern.

4. Baking and Serving

Instructions:

1. Optional Glaze:

• If desired, warm the apricot jam in a small saucepan over low heat until melted. Brush the jam over the strawberries to give them a glossy finish.

2. Garnish:

• Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've made a beautiful and delicious strawberry tart. We hope you enjoy this delightful dessert as much as we do. Don't forget to share your creations with us on social media or ask any questions you might have. Happy baking!