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 unsweetened cocoa powder; ⅓ cup powdered sugar; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; 1-2 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

When it comes to desserts, I believe that simplicity combined with rich flavors can create magic, and these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets are a perfect example. I love how the crispy tart shell perfectly complements the velvety chocolate filling while fresh strawberries add a burst of brightness. It's a delightful treat that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to make, making it a go-to dessert for any gathering. Every time I serve these, I witness smiles and satisfied sighs—proof of how a little bit of effort can lead to unforgettable moments.

Created by

Verity Langdon

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:47:35.218Z

Making these Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets was a delightful journey for me in the kitchen. I recall the first time I attempted this recipe; I experimented with various chocolate ratios until I found the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. The chocolate ganache truly shines when paired with fresh strawberries, and I learned that letting it cool slightly before filling the tart shells helps maintain a beautiful contrast between the layers.

One of the best tips I can share is to use high-quality chocolate for the ganache. It elevates the overall flavor of the tartlet. Also, consider chilling the tartlets after assembling them, as this not only helps the chocolate set but also enhances the refreshing nature of the fresh strawberries. It's a small detail that makes a big difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent chocolate filling that satisfies every chocolate lover's craving
Fresh strawberries add a pop of color and flavor balance
Elegant enough for special occasions, yet easy enough for a weekday treat

Mastering the Tart Shells

Creating the perfect tart shell is crucial for achieving the right balance of textures in your Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets. The combination of all-purpose flour and cocoa powder gives a rich chocolate flavor while the powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness. Be sure to mix the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; this ensures that your tart shells come out flaky yet sturdy enough to hold the filling. If the dough feels too dry, add an extra teaspoon of cold water, one at a time, until it comes together.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Using a floured surface will prevent sticking. If you have difficulty rolling out the dough, consider patting it into the tartlet pans directly. Bake the shells until the edges feel firm to the touch; if they puff up during baking, gently press them down with a spatula right after pulling them out of the oven to maintain their shape.

Creating the Luscious Chocolate Filling

The key to a smooth and glossy chocolate filling lies in carefully heating the heavy cream. Heat it just until you see small bubbles forming around the edges of the pan, but do not let it boil; boiling can cause the chocolate to seize. Once you add in the chopped chocolate, let it sit for a minute before stirring. This gives the chocolate time to melt naturally, leading to a smooth texture. If your filling turns grainy, you can whisk in a teaspoon of warm cream to rescue it.

In addition to the chocolate and heavy cream, the sugar not only sweetens but helps create a silky finish. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate for a more intense flavor or a milk chocolate for a sweeter profile. Just remember that the sweetness level may need adjustment based on the chocolate you choose.

Serving and Storage Tips

To serve your Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, I recommend letting them set in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This not only allows the filling to firm up but also integrates the fresh strawberries with the ganache. For a finishing touch, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprig of mint on top for added color and aroma. These tartlets are best enjoyed chilled, which enhances the rich chocolate flavor and the refreshing taste of strawberries.

If you have leftovers, store the tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, be mindful that the strawberries may begin to release moisture, affecting the texture. For longer storage, consider making the tart shells and filling ahead of time, then assemble just before serving to maintain freshness. They can also be frozen (without the strawberries) for up to a month; simply thaw in the fridge and add fresh toppings before serving.

Ingredients

To prepare these can’t-miss Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets, gather the following ingredients:

For the Tart Shells

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
⅓ cup powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg yolk
1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings

Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves (optional, for garnish)

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tartlets:

Make the Tart Shells

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the softened butter and egg yolk, mixing until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit your tartlet pans. Bake for 10-12 minutes until firm. Let cool.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and sugar, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in vanilla extract. Allow it to cool slightly before filling the tart shells.

Assemble the Tartlets

Once the tart shells are cool, fill them with the chocolate ganache, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Arrange the halved strawberries on top, pressing them gently into the chocolate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.

Serve chilled, garnished with mint leaves if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider drizzling some melted white chocolate over the top before serving. This not only adds flavor but also a beautiful presentation. Also, using a mix of chocolate can create a layered flavor profile that makes these tartlets even more irresistible!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream can replace heavy cream; simply refrigerate a can of coconut milk overnight, then scoop the solid part for a luscious filling.

For a less sweet pancake, you can use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of sweetened varieties and adjust the sugar to taste. For the chocolate filling, try using dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage for a more intense flavor, which can also balance the sweetness of the strawberries.

Variations on the Tartlets

Feel free to add a layer of fruit preserves or a dollop of whipped cream inside the tart shells before adding the chocolate filling for an extra burst of flavor. Other berries, like raspberries or blueberries, can also be used in place of strawberries for a delightful twist on the flavor profile.

You can also infuse the chocolate filling with different flavors. Try adding a tablespoon of orange zest or a splash of almond extract to the ganache for a distinct taste. For added crunch, consider mixing chopped nuts into the chocolate filling or sprinkling them on top along with the strawberries.

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.

→ What type of chocolate is best for the filling?

Using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate will yield the best results, but you can also experiment with dark or milk chocolate based on your preference.

→ How can I substitute for the heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a non-dairy heavy cream as an alternative in this recipe.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries give the best flavor and texture, you can use thawed frozen strawberries in a pinch, but ensure to drain excess liquid.