Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon unsalted butter; Fresh strawberries, halved for topping

Highlighted under: Oven Meals

I love making these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets whenever I want to impress guests or treat myself. The rich chocolate paired with the freshness of strawberries always creates a delightful experience. The recipe is simple but feels luxurious, making it perfect for special occasions or an indulgent dessert after dinner. The combination of a crisp tart shell and creamy chocolate filling offers a mouthwatering contrast that is hard to resist. Let's indulge in this delicious treat and create a memorable dessert together!

Created by

Honor Blackwell

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:40:52.506Z

When I first attempted these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, I was amazed at how easily they came together. I learned that using high-quality chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor and texture. The first bite transports you into a blissful world where the tartness of strawberries balances the sweetness of the chocolate.

One of the best parts of this recipe is the flexibility it offers. I often experiment by adding a splash of vanilla extract or a hint of orange zest to the chocolate filling. Both variations elevate the dessert, making it even more special and tailored to my taste!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Delicate tart shell with a creamy chocolate filling
Perfect for entertaining or as a sweet self-care treat

      

Perfecting the Tart Shell

The tart shell serves as the foundation for this delightful dessert, and its texture is crucial for balance. By using a blend of all-purpose flour and powdered sugar, you create a shell that is both tender and sweet. The key is to not overwork the dough when combining the ingredients; this will ensure it remains flaky. Remember, press the dough into the pans firmly to create a solid base, which will later hold the rich chocolate filling securely.

Another tip for achieving the best tart shells is to chill the dough before baking. This minimizes shrinkage during the baking process. Make sure to refrigerate the tartlet pans for at least 15 minutes. As they bake, keep an eye on them until the edges are golden brown, which usually takes around 15 minutes at 350°F. If you notice the centers puffing up, a gentle press with a fork can help flatten them down.

Crafting the Chocolate Filling

The chocolate filling is the heart of these tartlets, and using high-quality dark chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor. Aim for a chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a rich, deeply satisfying taste. When heating the cream, do not let it boil; instead, watch for it to simmer. This ensures the chocolate blends smoothly, resulting in a glossy, silky texture. If the mixture appears grainy, you can gently reheat it until everything melts together perfectly.

For those looking for dietary substitutes, consider using dairy-free chocolate along with coconut cream instead of heavy cream. This alternative can provide a different yet delightful flavor profile, and will cater to vegan diets. Keep in mind that the chocolate filling can sit at room temperature for a short period, but for optimum results, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set before adding toppings.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets

For the Tartlets

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Chocolate Filling

200g dark chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Fresh strawberries, halved for topping

Gather all ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Shells

In a bowl, mix the flour and powdered sugar. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and vanilla extract until the dough forms. Press the dough into tartlet pans and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Bake the Tartlets

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled tart shells for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate, sugar, and butter. Stir until smooth and fully melted.

Assemble the Tartlets

Pour the chocolate mixture into the cooled tartlet shells. Let them cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Top with fresh strawberries before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, dust the tartlets with powdered sugar before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Serving Suggestions

Once the tartlets have been assembled, there are numerous ways to elevate your presentation. Dusting the tops with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzling with additional melted chocolate can enhance both appearance and flavor. Serving these tartlets with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can add a delightful creaminess that balances the richness of the chocolate and tartness of the strawberries.

You can also try incorporating different fruits for variety. Fresh raspberries, blueberries, or even citrus segments can provide an interesting color contrast and flavor twist to the classic strawberry topping. When serving, consider presenting them on a beautiful platter surrounded by seasonal fruits to create an appealing centerpiece.

Make-Ahead and Storage

These Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets can be made ahead of time, making them a great option for parties or gatherings. You can prepare the tart shells a day in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The chocolate filling can also be made ahead; just keep it stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your tartlets. Just remember to let the filling return to room temperature for a smoother pour into the shells.

If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to three days. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors. However, it's best to add fresh strawberries just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, but it will change the flavor and sweetness. Adjust the sugar accordingly.

→ How can I make the tart shell gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can these tartlets be made a day in advance?

Absolutely! Just keep them refrigerated and add the strawberries right before serving.

→ What other fruits can I use on top?

Raspberries or blueberries work beautifully as alternatives to strawberries!