Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1 large egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, halved for topping

Highlighted under: Modern Cooking

I absolutely adore making these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets for any occasion. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a delightful treat that's not only delicious but also visually stunning. I often prepare them when I want to impress my guests or simply indulge my sweet tooth. The tart shell has just the right amount of crunch, while the chocolate filling is smooth and creamy, making each bite a slice of heaven. Trust me, once you serve these, they'll become a favorite!

Created by

Saskia Morton

Last updated on 2026-01-11T16:41:34.886Z

When I first attempted these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, I was amazed at how the flavors harmonized beautifully. I found that using high-quality chocolate made all the difference in taste. It's worth investing a little more to achieve that rich, indulgent flavor. Each time I make them, I’m reminded of that first experience, and it keeps me coming back to this recipe.

One tip I highly recommend is to let the chocolate filling cool slightly before pouring it into the tart shells. This ensures that the shells retain their crispness and don’t get soggy. After a few trials, I realized that a short chill in the fridge before serving also elevates the flavor, making it an experience everyone will talk about.

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by fresh strawberries
Elegant presentation perfect for gatherings or special occasions
Rich and creamy filling with a crisp tart shell

      

Understanding the Tart Shells

The tart shell serves as the perfect foundation for these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, providing not only crunch but also a subtle chocolate flavor that complements the filling. When mixing the dry ingredients—flour, cocoa, and powdered sugar—ensure they are well combined to create a consistent texture. This step is crucial because it helps avoid lumps in the crust, ensuring a smooth bake.

Chilling the dough before rolling it out is an essential step in achieving a tender crust. The cold butter needs time to firm up, which prevents the dough from spreading too much during baking. I recommend refrigerating the dough for a full 30 minutes to an hour for best results. When rolling out, flour your surface generously to avoid sticking and breakage.

Creating the Perfect Chocolate Filling

The balance between cream and chocolate in this filling is key. Using a high-quality semisweet chocolate enhances the richness and depth of flavor in the tartlets. When heating the heavy cream, be careful not to let it boil; you want it to just simmer. This approach ensures that when the cream meets the chocolate, it melts smoothly into a luxurious ganache without any graininess.

If you find your chocolate filling too thick after mixing, try warming it gently over low heat while stirring. This will help achieve a glossy finish that not only looks appealing but also gives the filling a delightful mouthfeel. For a unique twist, consider adding a dash of espresso powder to the ganache to elevate the chocolate flavor.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells

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

For the Chocolate Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries, halved for topping

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Make the Tart Shells

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to bring the dough together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the Tart Shells

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into rounds. Press into a mini tartlet pan. Prick the bottoms with a fork and bake for 15 minutes. Allow to cool completely.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.

Assemble the Tartlets

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart shells. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set. Before serving, top with halved strawberries.

Enjoy Your Tartlets!

Pro Tips

Making the shells ahead of time can save you time on the day of serving. Just store them wrapped at room temperature. For a twist, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate filling for added depth of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These tartlets are versatile in presentation. While they are stunning on their own, you can enhance them further by dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling a bit of melted chocolate on top to create an artful display. Sprigs of mint can also add a pop of color and a refreshing note that balances the richness of the chocolate.

For a more elaborate dessert experience, serve the tartlets alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. This pairing not only contrasts the textures but also amplifies the flavors, making each bite even more indulgent.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These tartlets can be made ahead of time, making them ideal for parties or gatherings. Bake the tart shells a day in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. Once filled, the tartlets can be refrigerated for up to two days, but it's best to add the strawberries just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.

If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember to cover them to keep the tart shells from softening. However, I recommend enjoying your tartlets as fresh as possible to fully appreciate the delicious contrast between the crisp shell and creamy filling.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different fruit?

Absolutely! While strawberries are a classic topping, you can use raspberries or blueberries for a delicious twist.

→ What kind of chocolate is best for the filling?

Using high-quality semisweet or dark chocolate will yield the best flavor and texture.

→ How long can I store the tartlets?

The tartlets can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but they're best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I freeze these tartlets?

Yes, you can freeze the tart shells before filling. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.