Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that combines fresh flavors with a touch of elegance, you’ve come to the right place! This Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. It’s the kind of treat that can make any gathering feel special or simply brighten up a busy weeknight. The buttery tartlet shells, creamy pastry cream, and homemade strawberry jam create a beautiful harmony of textures and flavors. Plus, these little gems are sure to impress your family and friends!

These tartlets are perfect for any occasion—birthdays, brunches, or even as a sweet surprise after dinner. I just love how they bring a taste of summer into every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and wholesome ingredients, this recipe is great for bakers of all levels.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves strawberries! These tartlets are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the components in advance, making it easy to assemble when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy pastry creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients is half the fun! For this recipe, you’ll need simple and wholesome items that create magic in your kitchen. Here’s what you need:

For the tartlet shells:

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your flavors. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the fruit: Use raspberries or blueberries instead of strawberries for a different fruity twist.
• Add zesty notes: Incorporate lemon or orange zest into the pastry cream for a bright citrus flavor.
• Chocolate lovers rejoice: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top before serving 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 into tartlet pans using your fingers. Don’t worry if there are cracks; just patch them up with extra dough! Freezing the shells for 15 to 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 2: Bake the Tartlet Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Remove the tartlets from the freezer and prick the dough all over with a fork to let steam escape while baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and fill them with pie weights or dried beans. Bake until golden brown on the edges—about 10 to 15 minutes—and then cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Jam

In a saucepan, combine those lovely chopped strawberries with sugar over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and strawberries release their juices. Uncover and reduce heat to low; let it simmer until thickened for about 20 minutes before allowing it to cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry Cream

In another saucepan, mix sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. While that’s heating up, whisk together egg yolks and cornstarch in a small bowl. Temper those yolks by gradually adding some warm liquid from your saucepan while whisking constantly—this prevents curdling! Return everything back to heat until thickened.

Step 5: Chill Your Pastry Cream

Transfer your creamy mixture into a clean bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface. Pop it in the fridge for about two hours so it chills beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble Your Strawberry Tartlets

It’s time for assembly! Spread a layer of strawberry jam at the bottom of each cooled tartlet shell. Then pipe your chilled pastry cream over that scrumptious jam using a piping bag fitted with a large star or flower tip. Top each tartlet off with fresh strawberry halves for that eye-catching finish!

Enjoy these lovely Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets as they bring joy to every occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Creating the perfect strawberry tartlets can be a delightful experience! Here are some tips to ensure your tartlets turn out beautifully every time.

• Chill Your Dough: A well-chilled Pâte Sucrée dough is easier to handle and will help prevent shrinkage while baking. This ensures your tartlet shells hold their shape and stay flaky.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opting for fresh strawberries and high-quality dairy products will enhance the flavors of your tartlets. Fresh ingredients contribute to a more vibrant, delicious taste that’s hard to beat.

• Don’t Rush the Jam: Allowing your strawberry jam to simmer until thickened helps intensify the flavor. A well-cooked jam adds a rich, fruity base that complements the creamy pastry.

• Pipe with Care: When piping your pastry cream, use slow, steady pressure on the piping bag. This technique allows for even distribution and a beautiful finish on your tartlets.

• Serve Immediately for Best Flavor: While these tartlets can be made ahead of time, serving them fresh ensures that the pastry remains crisp and the cream is at its best. Enjoy them right after assembly for maximum enjoyment!

How to Serve Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Presenting your strawberry tartlets beautifully can elevate any occasion. Here are some ideas to make them shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a pop of color and a refreshing scent that complements the sweetness of strawberries.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving gives a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Edible Flowers: Adding edible flowers not only looks stunning but also introduces subtle floral notes that pair wonderfully with strawberries.

Side Dishes

• Light Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet tartlets.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creaminess of vanilla ice cream offers a delightful balance to the tartness of the strawberries, making it an indulgent pairing.
• Fruit Salad: A bowl of assorted fresh fruits can complement your dessert nicely while keeping things light and refreshing. Consider using seasonal fruits for added variety.
• Herbal Tea: Serving a warm cup of herbal tea alongside enhances the overall experience; chamomile or mint tea works particularly well with sweet desserts like these tartlets.

Now you’re all set to create and serve these delightful strawberry tartlets! Enjoy every bite as you share this treat with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These strawberry tartlets are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving, ensuring they taste fresh and delightful.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• If you have leftover pastry cream or jam, store them separately in airtight containers. They will last for about 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing

• For best results, freeze the tartlet shells unfilled. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap.
• You can freeze the pastry cream as well. Place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 1 month.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen tartlet shells, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• If the pastry cream is frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and whisk it back to a smooth consistency before using.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these scrumptious strawberry tartlets!

Can I use frozen strawberries for the Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe?

Yes, while fresh strawberries are ideal for flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw them completely before using!

How do I prevent my tartlet shells from becoming soggy?

To keep your tartlet shells crisp, be sure to bake them until golden brown and allow them to cool completely before adding the jam and pastry cream. You can also brush the insides with a thin layer of melted chocolate before filling.

What is the best way to pipe the pastry cream into my tartlets?

Using a piping bag fitted with a large star or flower tip will give your pastry cream a beautiful presentation. Alternatively, you can simply spoon it into each shell for a more rustic look.

How long will these Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, these tartlets will remain fresh for up to two days. For optimal taste and texture, enjoy them within that timeframe!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe brings joy to your kitchen! The combination of buttery shells, creamy filling, and vibrant strawberry flavor makes these treats truly special. Whether it’s a gathering or just a sweet indulgence for yourself, I’m sure you’ll love making – and sharing – these delightful tartlets. Happy baking!