Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; A pinch of salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Fresh strawberries, sliced; Mint leaves (optional) for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Collection

I've always been a sucker for desserts that beautifully combine rich chocolate and fresh fruit, and these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets take the cake! Each bite is a delightful surprise as the velvety chocolate ganache contrasts with the juicy strawberries. They’re simple to make yet feel incredibly indulgent, perfect for hosting friends or for a cozy night in. I love serving them chilled, letting the flavors meld perfectly. Trust me, you’ll want to add these to your recipe collection!

Created by

Tilda Greenwood

Last updated on 2026-01-11T20:09:35.062Z

Preparing these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets was a joyous experience, especially when I saw the reaction from my family as they took their first bites. The combination of the buttery tart crust with silky chocolate is a match made in dessert heaven. I recommend making the crust ahead of time so you can focus on the divine ganache and fresh strawberries!

One secret I learned while crafting this recipe is that allowing the tartlets to chill for at least an hour intensifies the chocolate flavor. I love experimenting with different toppings, too; try a sprinkle of sea salt or a dusting of cocoa powder for an elevated touch. Enjoy these bite-sized delights at your next gathering!

        Why You Will Love These Tartlets
        Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by sweet strawberries
A stunning presentation that impresses guests
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

Mastering the Tartlet Shells

The key to achieving the right texture for your tartlet shells lies in how you combine the ingredients. When mixing the flour, powdered sugar, and salt with the butter, aim for a crumbly texture that resembles wet sand. This ensures a tender shell that won't crumble when you bite into it. Remember to use cold butter to enhance flakiness, and handle the dough as little as possible to prevent developing gluten, which can make the shells tough.

After chilling the dough, roll it out carefully. If the dough sticks, a light dusting of flour on the work surface can help. While cutting the circles for your tartlet pans, aim for slightly larger circles to allow for shrinkage during baking. Pressing the dough into the pans should be done gently to avoid tearing, and don’t forget to prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.

Homemade Chocolate Ganache Techniques

Creating a smooth, glossy chocolate ganache is all about the balance of ingredients and temperature. When heating the heavy cream, bring it just to a simmer; boiling can scald the cream and affect the ganache's texture. As you add in the chopped dark chocolate and butter, the residual heat should be sufficient to melt them. Stir patiently until no lumps remain, achieving a beautiful silky consistency that will set perfectly in your tartlet shells.

Ganache can also be flavored to elevate your tartlets. Consider adding a splash of vanilla extract, espresso, or a hint of orange zest. The additional flavors complement the richness of the dark chocolate without overpowering it. If you prefer a sweeter ganache, opt for semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark; this small change transforms the overall taste experience while still maintaining a delightful indulgence.

Serving and Storage Tips

For the best flavor experience, allow the assembled tartlets to chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This not only sets the ganache but also helps the flavors harmonize beautifully. You can serve them as-is or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra richness. The tartlets look stunning when garnished with fresh mint leaves, which add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the chocolate and strawberries.

If you have leftovers, store the tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be mindful that the crust may absorb moisture over time, so it's best to enjoy them fresh. If you're preparing for a gathering, consider making the tartlet shells and ganache a day in advance. Just fill the shells with the ganache closer to serving time for that fresh taste while still enjoying the ease of make-ahead preparations.

Ingredients

For the Tartlet Shells

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

For the Chocolate Ganache

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For Topping

Fresh strawberries, sliced
Mint leaves (optional) for garnish

Instructions

Make the Tartlet Shells

In a bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and rub it in until it resembles breadcrumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the Tartlet Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface and cut into circles to fit your tartlet pans. Press the dough into the pans and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden. Allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate and butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Let it cool for a few minutes.

Assemble the Tartlets

Pour the chocolate ganache into the cooled tartlet shells, filling them about three-quarters full. Top with sliced strawberries. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Pro Tips

Serve these tartlets with a dollop of whipped cream for extra creaminess. Experiment with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for seasonal flavors.

Flavor Pairings and Variations

While strawberries are a classic choice, don't hesitate to experiment with other fruits. Raspberries, blueberries, or even sliced kiwi make excellent alternatives that pair beautifully with chocolate. Each fruit brings its unique tartness and sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your tartlets. You can also blend different berries for a vibrant and colorful topping that’s visually appealing.

For those looking to reduce sugar, consider using a sugar substitute in the ganache. Stevia or erythritol can work without compromising texture, but be careful to adjust the amounts accordingly, as these substitutes often have different sweetness levels than sugar. Adding a pinch of salt can help balance the sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your tartlet shells are too crumbly and won’t hold together, it could be due to insufficient moisture in the dough or overmixing. Adding a teaspoon of cold water can help bind the ingredients without forming too much gluten. Always remember that the dough should feel slightly tacky but still hold its shape when pressed together instead of crumbling apart.

In case your ganache isn’t setting properly, it may be due to insufficient cooling time or the ratios of cream to chocolate. Ensure proper measurements and give the ganache enough time to chill. If you've mistakenly ended up with a ganache that's too soft, you can gently reheat it and add more chopped chocolate to thicken it back up. Patience is key, so don't rush the cooling process!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tartlet shells in advance?

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

→ What type of chocolate works best?

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for the best flavor.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for texture and flavor, but if frozen is all you have, make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

→ How can I store the tartlets?

Store any leftovers in the fridge, covered, for up to 2 days. The crust may become soft over time due to the ganache.