Strawberry tart is much more than just a dessert: it's a true celebration of springtime flavors. With its crisp crust, smooth cream, and fresh, fragrant strawberries, it represents the elegance of French pastry while remaining accessible to cooking enthusiasts.
Perfect for a sunny afternoon snack, a picnic, or a festive dessert, this traditional recipe can be adapted in many ways. Discover how to make a successful homemade strawberry tart , with tips to enhance each step and ideas for personalizing it.
Homemade strawberry tart recipe (serves 6)
Ingredients
For the shortcrust pastry
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200g of T45 flour (ideal for pastry making)
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100g of cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
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60g of icing sugar
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1 medium egg
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1 pinch of fine salt
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1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
For the pastry cream
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50 cl of whole milk
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2 egg yolks
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60 g of powdered sugar
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30g of cornstarch
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1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
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1 small knob of butter (optional)
For the garnish
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400 to 500 g of fresh strawberries
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2 tablespoons of apricot jam for topping (optional)
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a few mint leaves for decoration
Preparation steps
1. Prepare the shortcrust pastry
In a bowl, mix the flour, icing sugar and salt. Add the pieces of cold butter and then work the mixture with your fingertips until it has a sandy texture.
Make a well in the center, add the egg and vanilla, then mix quickly to obtain a smooth dough without overworking it.
Form into a ball, wrap in cling film and place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes .
2. Bake the pie crust
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured work surface to a thickness of approximately 3 mm . Place it in a tart tin approximately 24 cm in diameter .
Prick the base with a fork, cover it with baking paper and add baking beans (or rice).
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for 15 to 20 minutes , until the pastry is lightly golden.
Remove the baking weights and let cool on a wire rack.
3. Prepare the pastry cream
Heat the milk with the split and scraped vanilla pod.
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until the mixture turns pale. Add the cornflour and mix.
Gradually pour in the hot milk while whisking, then pour the mixture back into the saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly for 2 to 3 minutes , until the cream thickens.
Remove from heat and stir in the knob of butter for a smoother texture. Cover with cling film, pressing it directly onto the surface, and let cool.
4. Assemble the strawberry tart
Spread the cooled pastry cream over the tart base. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Wash the strawberries, hull them, then arrange them attractively:
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in a classic rosette
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whole for a rustic style
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or mixed with other red berries for a modern version
For a glossy effect, gently heat the apricot jam with a little water, filter it, then brush it over the strawberries.
For the finishing touch, you can add icing sugar or a few mint leaves.
Why strawberry tart is a timeless dessert
Strawberry tart has been enjoyed for generations because it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
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the crispness of the shortcrust pastry
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the sweetness of the pastry cream
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the freshness and slight acidity of strawberries
This dessert showcases seasonal fruits and lends itself to many variations.
Tips for making the perfect strawberry tart
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Choose ripe and fragrant strawberries
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Let the dough cool before adding the cream
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Don't apply too thick a layer of cream.
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Keep the pie in the refrigerator before serving.
Strawberry tart is best enjoyed within 24 hours to retain all the freshness of the fruit.
Decorating idea: strawberry tart as culinary inspiration
Strawberry tart is not only delicious: it can also inspire the decoration of a kitchen.
Illustrated recipes or culinary posters inspired by traditional desserts create a warm and inviting atmosphere. An illustration depicting a strawberry tart recipe can become a unique decorative element in a kitchen or dining area.
Placed near the worktop or on a kitchen wall, it keeps the recipe visible while adding an artistic and friendly touch.
FAQ: Everything you need to know about strawberry tart
Can the strawberry tart be prepared in advance?
Yes. The pastry and the custard can be prepared the day before. It's best to add the strawberries a few hours before serving.
How to store a strawberry tart?
It must be kept refrigerated and consumed within 24 hours .
Can frozen strawberries be used?
Fresh strawberries are recommended. Frozen strawberries can release water and alter the texture of the tart.
Can pastry cream be substituted?
Yes, some variations use:
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whipped cream
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a mascarpone cream
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sweetened cottage cheese
Homemade strawberry tart is a simple, elegant, and always popular dessert. Thanks to its combination of textures and flavors, it remains a pastry staple.
Whether you prepare it for a family meal, an afternoon snack or a special occasion, this traditional recipe will always appeal to lovers of fruity desserts.