Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve come to the right place! This Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. Imagine buttery tartlet shells filled with creamy pastry cream and topped with luscious homemade strawberry jam. It’s a treat that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, and it always impresses. Plus, there’s something magical about using fresh strawberries that takes these little desserts to another level!

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, these strawberry tartlets are sure to bring smiles all around. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: The steps are straightforward and easy to follow, making it a perfect baking project for beginners.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves strawberries! These tartlets are a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the shells and jam in advance, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to serve.
• Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of fresh strawberries with creamy pastry cream offers a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a picnic, birthday party, or just because.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our strawberry tartlets. Don’t worry; these are easy to find at your local grocery store!

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! Feel free to get creative with your flavors and toppings.

• Swap the fruit: Use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor twist!
• Change up the cream: Substitute coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version that’s still delicious.
• Add some zest: A bit of lemon or orange zest in the pastry cream can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
• Go for chocolate: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top for an indulgent touch!

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 gently into tartlet pans with your fingers. Don’t fret if there are cracks; just patch them up with extra dough. Freezing them for 15 to 30 minutes helps them hold their shape during baking.

Step 2: Bake Those Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Take those chilled tartlet shells out of the freezer and prick the dough all over with a fork. This allows steam to escape while they bake. Line each shell with parchment paper and fill them with pie weights or dried beans before popping them in the oven.

Step 3: Make Your Strawberry Jam

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine your chopped strawberries and sugar. Cook this mixture until the sugar dissolves and you see some liquid from the strawberries—about 5 minutes. Then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened. Once ready, let it cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry Cream

In another saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until it simmers—this is where we build our creamy goodness! In a small bowl, whisk together your egg yolks and cornstarch. Once the milk mixture is hot, temper your yolks by slowly adding some hot liquid while whisking constantly.

Step 5: Thicken Up That Cream

Gradually add those tempered yolks back into the saucepan while stirring constantly until thickened—this should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Transfer this lovely mixture into a clean bowl, cover it with plastic wrap directly on top (to prevent skin), and pop it in the fridge for about two hours until chilled.

Step 6: Assemble Those Tartlets

Once everything is chilled and ready, spread a layer of strawberry jam at the bottom of each tartlet shell. Now comes the fun part! Pipe that smooth pastry cream over your jam using a piping bag fitted with a large star or flower tip. Finally, garnish each tartlet with fresh strawberry halves on top.

And there you have it! Serve these beautiful little delights immediately or chill for later—they’re bound to be gone in no time! Enjoy every bite of your Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets!

Pro Tips for Making Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Creating the perfect strawberry tartlets can be a delightful experience, especially with these helpful tips!

• Chill the Dough: Ensure your Pâte Sucrée dough is well-chilled before rolling. This prevents it from shrinking during baking and keeps the tartlet shells perfectly shaped.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your tartlet shells as they bake. Ovens can vary, and you want to achieve a golden brown finish without overbaking them.

• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor in both the jam and as a garnish. Their sweetness will enhance the overall taste of your tartlets.

• Let the Jam Cool Completely: Allowing the strawberry jam to cool completely before assembling is crucial. This prevents it from melting into the pastry cream, keeping each layer distinct and delicious.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add a splash of lemon juice to your strawberry jam or incorporate different extracts in your pastry cream. This can elevate the flavor profile and make your tartlets unique!

How to Serve Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Serving these tartlets can be just as enjoyable as making them! Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dessert that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Mint Leaves: A few fresh mint leaves on top of each tartlet add a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast.
• Powdered Sugar: Dusting powdered sugar over the assembled tartlets gives them a beautiful finish and enhances their sweetness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top creates an elegant touch that complements the strawberries beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the fruity flavors of the tartlets, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds color and freshness to your dessert spread while balancing the richness of the tartlets.
• Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream alongside for those who enjoy an extra creamy texture with their tarts.
• Herbal Tea: A cup of floral herbal tea, like chamomile or hibiscus, serves as a refreshing beverage choice that complements the sweet and fruity flavors without overwhelming them.

Enjoy creating these Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets, perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a family gathering or simply treating yourself, these delightful treats are sure to impress. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These fresh and delicious strawberry tartlets are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components in advance, making it easy to assemble and enjoy at your convenience.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• If possible, store the pastry cream and jam separately from the shells to prevent sogginess.
• Consume them within a couple of days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

• You can freeze the tartlet shells before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• For best results, bake from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Avoid freezing assembled tartlets as they won’t maintain their texture after thawing.

Reheating

• If you have leftover baked tartlet shells, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Allow them to cool slightly before filling with jam and pastry cream again if desired.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making fresh and delicious strawberry tartlets!

Can I make the Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tartlet shells, pastry cream, and jam in advance. Just assemble them right before serving for optimal freshness.

What can I substitute instead of heavy cream in this Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream alternative for a lighter version while still enjoying creamy pastry cream!

How do I ensure my tartlet shells are perfectly baked?

To achieve perfectly baked tartlet shells, be sure to freeze them before baking, prick the dough with a fork to allow steam release, and keep an eye on them while they bake until golden brown.

What other fruits can I use in this strawberry tartlet recipe?

Feel free to experiment with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches! They all pair well with the creamy filling and buttery crust.

Can I use store-bought pastry cream?

Yes, using store-bought pastry cream is a great time-saver if you’re short on time. Just remember that homemade usually has a fresher taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating these fresh and delicious strawberry tartlets! They’re not only beautiful but also pack a delightful flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply treating yourself, these little gems will surely impress. Enjoy making these delightful treats – I can’t wait for you to try them!