Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets whenever I have a special occasion to celebrate. They are rich, indulgent, and bursting with the fresh flavor of strawberries. The combination of the crisp tart shell, creamy chocolate filling, and juicy strawberries creates a dessert that is simply irresistible. Plus, they're easy to make, which makes them a go-to recipe in my kitchen. Each bite is like a little piece of heaven, and I can't wait to share this delightful treat with you.

Created by

Etta Langton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:45:34.765Z

When I first attempted these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, I wanted to impress my friends during a summer gathering. By using fresh strawberries and high-quality chocolate, I found that the flavors complemented each other beautifully. I learned that chilling the tartlets before serving allows the filling to set perfectly, resulting in a smooth texture that melts in your mouth.

Experimenting with different toppings, I discovered that a drizzle of melted dark chocolate on top adds an elegant touch. These tartlets quickly became a beloved favorite, and I now make them for almost any gathering!

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        Decadent chocolate filling that satisfies your sweet tooth
Fresh strawberries add a delightful burst of flavor
A gorgeous presentation perfect for special occasions

      

Crafting the Perfect Tartlet Shells

The tartlet shells set the foundation for these delicious dessert cups. Pay special attention to the consistency of your dough; it should be soft yet manageable. If it's too crumbly, you may need to add a teaspoon of cold water or more butter. After pressing the dough into the tartlet pans, make sure to chill them for at least 15 minutes in the fridge. This step is crucial as it prevents the shells from shrinking during baking and ensures they hold their shape beautifully.

As you bake the tartlet shells, keep a close eye on them after the 15-minute mark. They should turn a lovely golden brown, suggesting they are ready. If you notice them browning too quickly, consider placing a sheet of aluminum foil over the tins to protect them while they continue to bake. This simple act prevents burnt edges and ensures a perfectly crisp shell.

Perfecting the Chocolate Filling

When preparing the chocolate filling, using high-quality dark chocolate will elevate the flavor of your tartlets significantly—aim for at least 60% cocoa content for a rich taste. As you heat the heavy cream, make sure you don't let it reach a full rolling boil; instead, watch for small bubbles forming. This temperature will ensure the chocolate melts smoothly and creates a luscious, glossy filling without seizing or becoming grainy.

When mixing in the chocolate and vanilla extract, gentle stirring is key. You want to incorporate the ingredients until the mixture is perfectly smooth, which should take only a minute or two. If your filling ends up with small lumps, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve to achieve that silky texture. Patience is paramount here, as rushing could lead to a less-than-ideal mouthfeel.

Serving and Storing Your Tartlets

For the best presentation, top your tartlets with fresh strawberries just before serving. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also keeps the strawberries from becoming soggy. If you're serving them later, consider placing the strawberries on the tartlets just before plating, maintaining their freshness and crunch. A quick drizzle of melted chocolate over the top can add an extra touch of elegance and flavor, which is always a crowd-pleaser.

These tartlets can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, although the texture of the strawberries will change slightly. If you want to make your tartlet shells ahead of time, they can be baked and stored separately for up to a week. Just ensure they are completely cool before sealing them in. This way, you can assemble the tartlets quickly when the occasion arises.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients for these delightful tartlets before you start baking.

For the tartlet shells

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the chocolate filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the topping

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets.

Make the tartlet shells

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and egg yolk, mixing until a dough forms. Press the dough into tartlet pans and chill for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the shells for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Prepare the chocolate filling

Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat, add the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Assemble the tartlets

Once the tartlet shells are cool, pour the chocolate filling into each shell, filling them generously. Chill the tartlets for at least 30 minutes until the filling is set.

Garnish and serve

Top each tartlet with sliced strawberries and garnish with mint leaves if desired. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious creation!

Enjoy your Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets as a delightful dessert any time!

Pro Tips

For a variation, you can use different types of chocolate, such as milk or white chocolate, for the filling. Adding a splash of liqueur, like Grand Marnier, can also enhance the flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten the recipe or make it vegan-friendly, consider using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. It will yield a unique flavor while maintaining that creamy filling. For a more pronounced chocolate flavor, incorporate a tablespoon of espresso powder into the chocolate filling; it enhances the taste without adding any coffee flavor. Additionally, if you're not a fan of strawberries, try swapping them out with raspberries or blueberries for a different fruit angle that works just as well.

For a gluten-free variant, substitute the all-purpose flour in the tartlet shell with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your powdered sugar is also gluten-free. This way, you’ll maintain the integrity of the tart while accommodating those with dietary restrictions, making it inclusive for everyone at your gathering.

Variations to Explore

While the classic chocolate and strawberry combination is divine on its own, don't hesitate to experiment with flavors! For instance, adding a splash of peppermint extract to the filling brings an unexpected festive flair—perfect for holiday gatherings. Alternatively, try incorporating different fruits such as banana slices topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or passionfruit pulp for tropical vibes; just make sure they complement the chocolate.

Consider flavoring your tartlet shells as well—mix in a teaspoon of orange zest into the dough for a citrusy twist, or use almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty aroma. These little enhancements can transform your tartlets and give them a unique signature touch, making them memorable for anyone who tries them.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tartlet shells puff up during baking, it could be a result of excess moisture in the dough. To combat this, be sure to chill your shells thoroughly before baking and use a fork to prick the bottoms lightly before placing them in the oven. This process allows steam to escape and helps keep the shells flat and even.

For the chocolate filling, if you find it separating or becoming grainy, it may have been overheated or mixed too aggressively. If this happens, don’t fret! Gently reheat the mixture over low heat while whisking continuously; this can often help re-emulsify the ingredients. If that fails, try adding an additional splash of cream to help bring it back together.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tartlet shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tartlet shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container.

→ What type of chocolate is best for the filling?

Using high-quality dark chocolate is recommended for the best flavor and texture.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries provide the best flavor, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch.

→ How long can I store these tartlets?

These tartlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days.