Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 large egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; Pinch of salt; 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 12 strawberries, hulled and sliced; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Recipes

When I think of indulgence, nothing unites simplicity and decadence quite like these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets. With a rich chocolate ganache filling nestled in a buttery tart shell, topped with vibrant fresh strawberries, it's a dessert that always impresses. I love making these for gatherings or just a fancy night in; they bring a touch of elegance to any occasion. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweetness and slight tartness, making them irresistible for any chocolate lover like myself.

Created by

Marlowe Sinclair

Last updated on 2026-01-11T19:35:34.805Z

As I was searching for the perfect dessert to impress friends during a get-together, I stumbled upon the idea of Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets. They sounded challenging, yet fun, inspiring me to give them a try. The secret to achieving the perfect ganache lies in using quality chocolate and not overheating the cream. Trust me, it makes all the difference!

During my first attempt, I learned the hard way that chilling the tart shell before baking ensures a firmer base. It prevents the dreaded shrinkage, allowing you to fill them generously with that luscious chocolate ganache and garnished with strawberries. The end result was not only pleasing to the eye but a hit among everyone!

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        Silky smooth chocolate ganache that satisfies every chocolate craving
Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color
Perfect individually-sized portions for easier serving

      

Understanding the Tart Shell

The tart shell is the foundation of these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, so getting it right is crucial. The blend of all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, and powdered sugar creates a sweet, flaky crust with a buttery richness. I recommend using cold butter and handling the dough as little as possible to prevent it from becoming tough; the goal is to create a tender crust that contrasts beautifully with the rich ganache.

When baking the tart shells, be vigilant about the cooking time. Oven temperatures may vary, so keep an eye on them as they approach the 20-minute mark. The shells should be a light golden brown, which indicates they are cooked through yet not overdone. If they’re browning too quickly, consider reducing the temperature by 25°F to ensure a perfect bake.

Crafting the Chocolate Ganache

The chocolate ganache is a two-ingredient wonder, but its success relies heavily on quality chocolate and precise technique. Bittersweet chocolate offers the right balance of sweetness and depth, enhancing the overall taste of the tartlets. When heating the cream, do not let it reach a rolling boil; just bring it to a simmer. This prevents the chocolate from seizing and ensures a smooth, glossy finish when mixed.

After combining the hot cream with the chocolate, allow it to sit for a few minutes before stirring. This step is crucial, as it helps the chocolate melt gently, resulting in a luxurious texture. If your ganache seems grainy or separated, reheat it gently over a double boiler while stirring continuously—the heat will bring it back together beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful tartlets.

For the tart shells

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 large egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water
Pinch of salt

For the chocolate ganache filling

8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the topping

12 strawberries, hulled and sliced
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Make sure to prepare each ingredient carefully for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets.

Make the tart shells

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. In another bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar until creamy. Add egg yolk and mix thoroughly. Gradually combine both mixtures, adding cold water until a smooth dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.

Bake the tart shells

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut into rounds to fit in a tartlet pan. Press into the pan and prick the bottoms with a fork. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove and allow to cool.

Prepare the chocolate ganache

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream until just boiling. Pour over chopped chocolate and let it sit for a few minutes. Stir until smooth and add sugar and vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.

Assemble the tartlets

Once the tart shells are cool, fill each with the chocolate ganache. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set. Top with sliced strawberries before serving.

Your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets are now ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips

For an enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the ganache.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for entertaining. The tart shells can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows you to save time when you’re ready to assemble. Just be sure to bake them until they’re nice and golden for the best texture.

The chocolate ganache can also be made ahead. Prepare it and store it in the refrigerator in a covered container. When you're ready to use it, simply let it come to room temperature or reheat it gently if it thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While fresh strawberries offer a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate, don’t be afraid to experiment with toppings. Other fruits like raspberries or blueberries add a burst of color and flavor, while a sprinkle of sea salt can enhance the chocolate’s richness. You could even consider a drizzle of white chocolate for an elegant touch or a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the dessert further.

For a twist on the classic tartlets, try incorporating flavors like orange zest into the ganache or adding a shot of espresso for a mocha version. Both options complement the chocolate beautifully and provide additional layers of flavor that will impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tart shells in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tart shells a day ahead and store them in an airtight container until you're ready to fill them.

→ What type of chocolate works best for the ganache?

I recommend using high-quality bittersweet chocolate for a rich flavor; dark chocolate is also a great option.

→ Can I substitute the strawberries?

Absolutely! You can use other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a twist on the flavor.

→ How should I store leftover tartlets?

Keep any leftover tartlets in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best served chilled.