Chocolate Strawberry Tart

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1 large egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 200g dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Modern Inspiration

I always find that a Chocolate Strawberry Tart brings a smile to anyone's face, including mine! The contrast of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a heavenly balance that's hard to resist. In just a few simple steps, I can whip up this delightful tart that's perfect for special occasions or just a cozy evening at home. Plus, the combination of textures makes every bite an experience. I love how this dessert looks impressive yet is surprisingly easy to make!

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-12T08:08:59.575Z

When I first decided to make this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, I was intimidated by the thought of making my own tart shell. However, after following a simple recipe, I discovered how rewarding it is to create the perfect buttery crust from scratch. The key is to chill your dough properly, allowing it to hold its shape beautifully when baked.

As I layered the chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries, I realized this dessert not only looks stunning but also balances rich and fruity flavors. I recommend using high-quality chocolate and ripened strawberries for the best taste. It’s an indulgence that's worth every effort!

Why You Will Love This Tart
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Decadent yet light texture that pleases any palate
A stunning centerpiece for gatherings and celebrations

Mastering the Tart Crust

The tart crust is a delicate balance of texture and flavor, with cocoa powder enriching the depth of the chocolate experience. For best results, ensure your butter is cold; this helps create a flaky texture when baked. When mixing, you’re aiming for a crumbly consistency before adding the wet ingredients. If your dough feels too crumbly, don’t hesitate to adjust the water incrementally, adding just a teaspoon at a time until it comes together.

After pressing the dough into the tart pan, chilling is crucial. This step prevents shrinkage during baking and allows the flavors to meld. Look for a gently golden edge after 20 minutes in the oven. If you notice any puffing, you can gently press it down with a spatula as soon as it comes out to ensure a flat surface for the ganache.

Creating the Perfect Ganache

Ganache serves as the luscious filling of your tart, and achieving the right consistency is key. When simmering the cream, look for gentle bubbles rather than a full boil to prevent scorching. As you add the chocolate, let it sit for a moment before stirring; this lets the heat of the cream melt the chocolate more evenly, creating a smooth and glossy mixture. If it looks grainy or separates, try whisking in a splash of warm cream to bring it back together.

You can customize the chocolate ganache by using different types of chocolate. For a sweeter filling, consider swapping in milk chocolate or even white chocolate for a unique twist. Just remember that this will alter the flavor profile; adjust the sugar accordingly.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Ganache

200g dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Shell

In a bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the cubed butter and mix until crumbly. Mix in the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a dough. Press dough into a tart pan, prick with a fork, and chill for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20 minutes, then let it cool.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Remove from heat and stir in chopped chocolate, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Pour the ganache into the cooled tart shell and refrigerate for 20 minutes until set.

Assemble and Serve

Once the ganache has set, arrange the halved strawberries on top. For added flair, garnish with mint leaves if desired. Slice and enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tart!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the ganache for a hint of citrus flavor.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Chocolate Strawberry Tart, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creaminess complements the tart’s rich chocolate while balancing the acidity of the strawberries. You might also drizzle a chocolate sauce on top for an extra decadent touch; simply melt some additional chocolate and let it cool slightly before drizzling.

For a festive presentation, you can also dust the tart with powdered sugar before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of sweetness to each slice. If you're serving to a crowd, slicing the tart into small wedges can make it easier for guests to enjoy.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

The Chocolate Strawberry Tart can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to prepare it in advance, I recommend adding the strawberries just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. Once the ganache has set, cover the tart with plastic wrap; this will keep it from absorbing odors and maintain its texture.

If you have leftovers, slice them and store the pieces in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last for a couple of days, but keep in mind that the crust may become a tad softer due to moisture from the strawberries. For best results, enjoy your tart within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-made tart crust?

Yes, you can absolutely use a pre-made crust to save time!

→ How long can I keep the tart in the fridge?

The tart can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

You can, but keep in mind that the tart will be sweeter and the chocolate flavor less intense.

→ What if I don’t have fresh strawberries?

You can substitute with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even use a fruit compote.