Chocolate Strawberry Tarts Recipe
Few desserts blend decadence and freshness quite like Chocolate Strawberry Tarts. Imagine a crisp, chocolatey cookie crust filled with luscious, silky chocolate ganache, all crowned with juicy fresh strawberries. This treat perfectly balances elegance and simplicity, making it not only stunning to look at but also dreamy to eat. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself, these tarts promise a bite full of creamy chocolate and ripe berries—an experience bound to become a new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Chocolate Strawberry Tarts call for only a handful of ingredients, but each one is essential to their luxurious feel and flavor. From the chocolate-studded base to the vibrant strawberry topping, every component plays a delicious role.
- Chocolate cookie crumbs: Choose your favorite chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos), finely crushed for that rich, chocolaty base.
- Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds moisture and brings the crust together, ensuring every bite has a crisp, crumbly texture.
- Heavy cream: This makes the chocolate filling ultra silky and rich, for that dreamy texture.
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate for a smooth, intense ganache—pick your preference for a deeper or slightly sweeter taste.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash elevates the chocolate filling, adding warmth and complexity.
- Fresh strawberries: Sweet, bright strawberries not only contrast beautifully with the chocolate but also add juiciness and color.
- Strawberry jam (optional): Brushing the strawberries with a gloss of jam makes the tarts absolutely bakery-worthy.
How to Make Chocolate Strawberry Tarts
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Cookie Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, stir together the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted unsalted butter until the crumbs are evenly moistened. This is what binds the crust and gives it that irresistible texture. Press the mixture firmly into the bottoms and up the sides of 4–6 small tart pans, or one 9-inch tart pan if you’re making a larger tart. Use the bottom of a measuring cup to pack it tightly. Bake for 8–10 minutes, then set aside so the crust can cool completely—this helps it crisp up and hold its shape.
Step 2: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache Filling
Now comes the magic moment: creating a rich, glossy chocolate filling. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it starts to simmer—don’t let it boil! Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl and let it sit undisturbed for one full minute. Then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Add the vanilla extract, stirring until everything is perfectly blended.
Step 3: Fill and Chill the Tarts
Pour the silky chocolate ganache into your cooled crusts, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Take a moment to admire that glossy finish! Next, refrigerate the tarts for at least 2 hours, or until the filling is set and luxuriously creamy. Don’t rush this step—the waiting builds anticipation.
Step 4: Top with Fresh Strawberries
Arrange the strawberry halves or slices generously over the set chocolate filling, pressing them in gently so they’re nestled into the tart. For that show-stopping, glossy bakery sheen, slightly warm the strawberry jam and brush it over the berries. This not only makes them shine but also highlights their natural sweetness.
How to Serve Chocolate Strawberry Tarts
Garnishes
Chocolate Strawberry Tarts look gorgeous on their own, but a few thoughtful garnishes take them over the top. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt heightens the chocolate notes, while a tuft of freshly whipped cream adds extra indulgence. For a pop of color, scatter a few chopped mint leaves or edible flowers just before serving.
Side Dishes
Serve these tarts alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for an irresistibly creamy contrast, or pair with a lemony fruit salad for a fresh, tangy balance. If you’re hosting a gathering, offer a platter of assorted berries or lightly roasted nuts for a build-your-own dessert bar experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Transform your Chocolate Strawberry Tarts into a showpiece by arranging them on a cake stand and dusting with cocoa powder. For a special event, layer mini tarts in glass jars for a parfait-style treat, or cut the large tart into slender wedges and serve with chocolate-dipped strawberries on the side. Each variation makes dessert feel festive and memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Chocolate Strawberry Tarts tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; the crust may soften slightly, but the flavors remain just as lovely and the strawberries stay surprisingly fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save tarts for later, freeze them (without the strawberries on top) for up to a month. Simply wrap each tart well in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add fresh strawberries and a jam glaze before serving for that just-made appeal.
Reheating
These tarts are best served chilled or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. If the crust seems a bit firm straight from the fridge, let the tarts sit out for 10 minutes before serving. This softens the chocolate just enough to make every bite velvety-smooth.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet for the filling?
Absolutely! Milk chocolate will make the filling sweeter and less intense, so if you prefer a mild, creamy flavor, go for it. Just be aware you may want to reduce the amount of cream slightly, as milk chocolate melts a bit softer.
What kind of cookie crumbs work best for the crust?
Chocolate sandwich cookies like Oreos give the best results, as they offer a sweet, deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with the filling. Make sure to crush them finely—using a food processor is easiest.
Can I make Chocolate Strawberry Tarts ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the tarts (minus the strawberries) up to one day in advance and keep them well covered in the fridge. Simply add the strawberries and any glaze just before serving for best freshness and presentation.
Are there gluten-free options for the crust?
Definitely! Swap the regular cookie crumbs for your favorite gluten-free chocolate cookies, and follow the same method. The results are just as delicious and visually inviting.
How do I get clean, neat slices when cutting the tart?
For crisp, clean slices, use a knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry before each cut. This technique helps glide easily through the creamy chocolate without dragging the filling or squishing the berries.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably magical about making and sharing Chocolate Strawberry Tarts. With their melt-in-your-mouth filling, crunchy crust, and vibrant berries, they’re as joyful to create as they are to eat. If you’re looking for an easy yet impressive way to sweeten any day, give these tarts a try—they might just steal your heart!
Print
Chocolate Strawberry Tarts Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 4–6 small tarts or 1 large tart 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the decadent combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries with these Chocolate Strawberry Tarts. A buttery Oreo crust holds a velvety chocolate ganache filling, topped with luscious strawberries for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients
Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreos, finely crushed)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Chocolate Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, halved or sliced
- 1 tablespoon strawberry jam (optional, for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter. Press into tart pans. Bake for 8–10 minutes.
- Make the chocolate filling: Heat cream, pour over chocolate, add vanilla, stir until smooth. Pour into cooled crusts and chill for 2 hours.
- Top with strawberries: Just before serving, add fresh strawberries. Optionally, glaze with warmed strawberry jam. Serve chilled.
Notes
- Prepare these tarts a day ahead for convenience.
- Enhance with sea salt or mint for added flair.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (with baked crust)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 small tart
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
