Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that brings a burst of freshness and sunshine to your table, then this Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is just what you need! These little gems are not only beautiful but also incredibly tasty. With buttery tartlet shells filled with creamy pastry cream and topped with luscious strawberry jam, they are perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or even a cozy night in.

There’s something so satisfying about crafting these tartlets from scratch. They’re easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet impressive enough to wow your guests at a dinner party. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients: This recipe uses wholesome and accessible ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the bright flavors of strawberries, making these tartlets a hit with everyone.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the tartlet shells and pastry cream in advance, saving you time when you’re ready to serve.
• Versatile treat: These tartlets can be customized with different fruits or flavors based on your preferences or seasonal availability.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delightful strawberry tartlets. Don’t worry; everything here is simple and wholesome!

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 Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:

• Mix up the fruit: Try using raspberries, blueberries, or peaches instead of strawberries for a different flavor profile.
• Add some zest: A teaspoon of lemon or orange zest in the pastry cream will add a lovely citrusy brightness.
• Switch the cream: For a lighter option, consider using whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream in your pastry cream.
• Experiment with toppings: Top your tartlets with mint leaves or edible flowers for an extra touch of elegance.

How to Make Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Tartlet Shells

Start by cutting the Pâte Sucrée dough into 12 portions. Press each piece into tartlet pans using your fingers. If any cracks appear, simply patch them with extra dough. Freezing the shells for 15 to 30 minutes helps them hold their shape while baking.

Step 2: Bake the Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once ready, remove the tartlets from the freezer and prick the dough all over with a fork. This step allows steam to escape during baking. Line each shell with parchment paper and fill them with pie weights or dried beans before baking for about 10 to 15 minutes until they start turning golden around the edges.

Step 3: Make the Strawberry Jam

In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries and sugar over medium heat for about 5 minutes until juicy. Uncover and reduce heat to low; let it simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened. Allow this delicious jam to cool completely before setting it aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Pastry Cream

In another saucepan, mix sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, and heavy cream over medium heat until it simmers gently. In a small bowl, whisk together egg yolks and cornstarch. When your milk mixture starts simmering, carefully temper those yolks by adding a bit of hot liquid while whisking continuously—this prevents curdling! Slowly add them back into the saucepan while stirring until thickened (about 5-8 minutes). Transfer this creamy goodness into a bowl covered with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for about two hours.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tartlets

Once everything has cooled down nicely, spread a layer of strawberry jam at the bottom of each tartlet shell. Then pipe that luscious pastry cream over the jam using a piping bag fitted with a large star tip. Finally, garnish each tartlet with halved fresh strawberries. Serve immediately for that perfect fresh bite!

These Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets are sure to bring smiles all around! Enjoy every creamy, fruity bite as you share this wonderful treat with friends and family!

Pro Tips for Making Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

Creating the perfect strawberry tartlets can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve that delicious result!

• Chill Your Dough: Make sure to chill your Pâte Sucrée dough before rolling it out. This prevents the fat from melting, ensuring a flaky and tender crust.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries for both the jam and garnishing. They provide a vibrant flavor that enhances your tartlets and makes them visually appealing.
• Don’t Rush the Baking: Allow the tartlet shells to cool completely before filling them. This helps maintain their structure and prevents sogginess from the pastry cream or jam.
• Whisk Well: When preparing your pastry cream, whisk vigorously after chilling. This aerates the mixture, giving it a light texture that complements the tartlets beautifully.
• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other berries or citrus zest into your pastry cream for a unique twist! This adds depth and freshness to each bite.

How to Serve Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe

These strawberry tartlets are not only delicious but also visually stunning! Presenting them beautifully can enhance any gathering or celebration.

Garnishes

• Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint on each tartlet adds a pop of color and an aromatic touch that brightens the flavor.
• Powdered Sugar: Dusting powdered sugar over the top gives an elegant finish that looks beautiful on dessert tables.
• Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate the tartlets with a rich contrast to the sweet strawberries.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the tartlets while providing a healthy option.
• Lemon Sorbet: The tangy flavor of lemon sorbet pairs perfectly with the sweetness of strawberry tartlets, making it a refreshing palate cleanser.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side adds richness that complements the fruity tart without overpowering it.
• Fruit Platter: Serve additional seasonal fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or kiwi slices alongside for extra color and variety on your dessert table.

Now you’re ready to create these delightful strawberry tartlets! Enjoy every moment of baking, serving, and indulging in this sweet treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy these delightful treats whenever you want. You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving!

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They are best consumed within 2 days for optimal freshness.
• If possible, store the shells and filling separately to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• You can freeze the tartlet shells before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• The pastry cream can also be frozen. Place it in a freezer-safe container with a bit of extra space for expansion, and it will keep for up to a month.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen tartlet shells, bake them directly from the freezer at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through.
• If using thawed pastry cream, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat while stirring continuously until smooth.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions that can help you navigate this recipe.

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

Absolutely! The pastry cream can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good whisk before using to ensure it’s smooth.

How long do Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets last?

These tartlets are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For optimal taste, serve them within this timeframe.

What type of strawberries should I use for this strawberry tartlets recipe?

Fresh, ripe strawberries work best! Look for berries that are bright red with no soft spots for maximum flavor.

Can I substitute any ingredients in this Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets Recipe?

Yes! You can try using non-dairy milk alternatives or sweetened condensed coconut milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find immense joy in creating these Fresh and Delicious Strawberry Tartlets! They are not only a feast for your taste buds but also bring a beautiful burst of color to any occasion. Whether it’s a special gathering or just a sweet treat at home, these tartlets are sure to impress. Enjoy every moment of making them, and don’t hesitate to share your creations!