If you’re on the lookout for a dessert that feels both elegant and effortlessly fresh, this Strawberry Tart Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine a crisp tart shell filled with a luscious, creamy blend of cream cheese and whipped cream, topped with vibrant, juicy fresh strawberries glazed to perfection. It’s the kind of dessert that brightens up any table and brings smiles all around, whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or a casual weekend treat. This tart strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy, rich and light, making it a timeless favorite you’ll come back to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Strawberry Tart Recipe calls for a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together harmoniously to create its irresistible flavor and beautiful appearance. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender tart shell providing texture to the cream cheese filling delivering velvety richness, and of course, the fresh strawberries adding that iconic burst of color and freshness.
- Pre-baked tart shell: A 9-inch shell gives the perfect crisp base to hold all the creamy goodness and juicy fruit.
- Heavy cream: Whipping this until stiff peaks makes the filling wonderfully light and airy.
- Cream cheese (softened): Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the berries and sugar.
- Granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the cream cheese mixture without overpowering it.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the cream filling, enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh strawberries: Hulled and sliced to decorate the tart with freshness and color.
- Apricot jam (warmed): Used as a glaze to make the strawberries gleam and add a subtle fruity shine.
How to Make Strawberry Tart Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Filling
Start by beating the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. This mixture forms the luscious base that will contrast beautifully with the tartness of the strawberries.
Step 2: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until it holds stiff peaks. This step is crucial because it lightens up the cream cheese mixture, giving the filling a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined. Be careful to fold gently so you keep all that airy volume, which is what makes the filling so delightful to bite into.
Step 4: Fill the Tart Shell
Spread the creamy filling evenly into the pre-baked tart shell. Use a spatula to smooth the surface, creating an even bed for the fruit on top.
Step 5: Arrange the Strawberries
Place the sliced strawberries on top of the cream layer in a pretty, decorative pattern. This is your chance to get creative—whether it’s concentric circles, a star shape, or a simple scattered look, the strawberries make the tart visually stunning.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
Lightly brush the warmed apricot jam over the arranged strawberries. This glaze not only gives the tart a beautiful glossy finish but also adds a touch of sweetness and helps keep the fruit fresh.
Step 7: Chill Before Serving
Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour. Chilling allows the filling to set perfectly and the flavors to meld, making every bite a creamy, refreshing delight.
How to Serve Strawberry Tart Recipe
Garnishes
For a personal touch, sprinkle some finely chopped fresh mint leaves over the tart or add a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. Both options enhance the visual appeal and add subtle layers of flavor that complement the strawberries beautifully.
Side Dishes
This strawberry tart pairs wonderfully with a light dessert wine, such as a Moscato or a sparkling rosé, which accentuates its fruity brightness. For a non-alcoholic pairing, a chilled glass of hibiscus iced tea or a simple vanilla bean ice cream scoop can elevate the overall dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the tart on a rustic wooden board topped with additional fresh berries and edible flowers. Alternatively, slice the tart into petites portions and skew the strawberry tops with a mint leaf on toothpicks for bite-sized parties or brunches. Presentation is half the fun with this charming recipe!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover strawberry tart in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though it’s best enjoyed the same day for optimal crust crispness and fruit freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this tart because the delicate cream filling can separate and the fresh strawberries lose their texture and flavor. For best results, prepare fresh or store chilled but unfrozen.
Reheating
This Strawberry Tart Recipe is meant to be served chilled, so reheating is unnecessary and not recommended. Instead, simply take it out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving to take the chill off, allowing the flavors to shine.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade tart shell instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! A homemade tart shell can add extra flavor and a personal touch. Just ensure it is fully baked and cooled before adding the filling to maintain the perfect crisp texture.
How do I make sure the cream whips properly?
Use cold heavy cream straight from the fridge and whip using a chilled bowl and beaters if possible. This helps the cream reach stiff peaks faster and hold its shape for folding into the mixture.
Can I substitute other berries for strawberries?
Yes! Raspberries or blueberries work wonderfully as substitutes or additions. Mixing berries adds a burst of flavor and a colorful twist to this classic tart.
Is this tart suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this tart uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients like cream cheese and heavy cream, making it an ideal dessert for most vegetarian diets.
Can I add lemon zest for extra flavor?
Definitely. Adding about a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling brightens the flavor and adds a lovely citrus aroma that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
Final Thoughts
This Strawberry Tart Recipe is a delightful celebration of fresh flavors and simple ingredients, perfect for any occasion when you want to impress without fuss. Its creamy filling, crisp crust, and jewel-like berries come together into a dessert that feels special yet approachable. Don’t hesitate—grab those strawberries and create a tart that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Print
Strawberry Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: French-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Strawberry Tart features a creamy filling of whipped cream and cream cheese layered in a crisp pre-baked tart shell, topped with fresh sliced strawberries and a glossy apricot glaze. Perfectly refreshing and easy to assemble, this no-bake dessert is ideal for summer gatherings or an elegant treat.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Tart
- 1 9-inch pre-baked tart shell
Topping
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam, warmed for glaze
Instructions
- Prepare the Cream Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Whip the Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream vigorously until stiff peaks form, giving the filling its light and airy texture.
- Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated, maintaining the lightness of the whipped cream.
- Assemble Tart: Spread the cream filling evenly into the pre-baked tart shell to create a smooth surface as the base layer for the fruit.
- Arrange Strawberries: Neatly arrange the sliced strawberries over the cream layer in a decorative pattern, covering the surface attractively.
- Apply Glaze: Lightly brush the warmed apricot jam over the strawberries to add a glossy finish and enhance flavor.
- Chill to Set: Place the tart in the refrigerator and chill for at least 1 hour to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the cream cheese filling.
- Substitute raspberries or blueberries for strawberries to vary the fruit topping.
- The tart shell can be homemade or store-bought for convenience.
- Ensure the whipped cream is beaten to stiff peaks for the best texture in the filling.
