Here’s a delicious and simple recipe for a Strawberry Tart that’s perfect for a sweet treat or special occasion!
Ingredients:
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small pieces)
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons ice water (or as needed)
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipped to stiff peaks)
For the Topping:
- 1 lb fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
- 1/4 cup strawberry jam or jelly (for glazing)
Instructions:
1. Make the Tart Crust:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a tart pan (9-inch) with a removable bottom or use a regular tart pan.
- Make the dough: In a food processor, pulse together the flour, powdered sugar, and cold butter until it forms a crumbly mixture. Add the egg yolk and pulse until just combined. Slowly add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for 15-20 minutes.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to fit the tart pan. Press the dough into the pan, trimming off any excess. Prick the bottom of the dough with a fork.
- Bake: Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
2. Make the Filling:
- Mix the filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the cream cheese and whipped cream: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fully combined.
3. Assemble the Tart:
- Spread the filling: Once the tart crust is completely cool, spread the cream cheese filling evenly into the crust.
- Add the strawberries: Arrange the sliced strawberries in a decorative pattern over the filling.
4. Glaze the Tart:
- Make the glaze: Heat the strawberry jam or jelly in a small saucepan over low heat until it becomes liquid (or microwave for a few seconds). If you prefer a clear glaze, you can strain the jam to remove any fruit pieces.
- Glaze the strawberries: Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the glaze over the strawberries to give them a nice shine and help them stay fresh.
5. Chill and Serve:
- Chill the tart: Refrigerate the tart for at least 1-2 hours to allow it to set before serving.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy the refreshing, creamy, and fruity tart!
Tips:
- For a buttery crust: Make sure your butter is cold when making the crust to get that nice, flaky texture.
- Other fruit options: You can use other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry tart, or even try peaches in the summer.
- Make-ahead: This tart can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for entertaining.
This Strawberry Tart is light, refreshing, and bursting with strawberry flavor—perfect for any occasion! Let me know if you need tips on making it with different fruits or flavors.
