Chocolate Strawberry Tarts
This Chocolate Strawberry Tarts recipe combines rich chocolate and fresh strawberries in a buttery tart shell. Perfect for celebrations, romantic dinners, or a sweet treat anytime!

I love making this Chocolate Strawberry Tarts recipe. Every time there’s a special occasion or a family dinner, I prepare these decadent tarts for my husband, and he absolutely loves them.
This is a dessert I like to create for romantic evenings, birthdays, or any time I want to make something truly special. And let me tell you, this recipe is my favorite when combining rich chocolate with fresh, juicy strawberries.
I’m not gonna lie — I love how the buttery tart shell pairs perfectly with the creamy chocolate filling and the sweet-tart flavor of the strawberries. It’s always my first choice when I want to impress.
I make these tarts using simple ingredients like semi-sweet chocolate and fresh strawberries, but sometimes I like to twist by including a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of nuts on top.
You can also use different fruits like raspberries or blackberries if you like, and the result is just “Wow!” You’ll love it for sure. And for a perfect pairing, you can serve these tarts with whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a glass of dessert wine. This dessert is super easy to make, yet it looks and tastes like something straight out of a bakery.
Why This Chocolate Strawberry Tarts Recipe Is Great?
Chocolate Strawberry Tarts are a winning combination of rich, creamy chocolate and fresh, juicy strawberries, all encased in a buttery tart shell. This recipe is perfect for any occasion and brings together flavors and textures that everyone will adore.
Perfect For:
- Romantic Evenings: These tarts are an ideal dessert for date nights or anniversaries. Their elegant appearance and luxurious taste make them perfect for setting a romantic mood.
- Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday or a holiday gathering, these tarts add a touch of sophistication to any dessert table. They’re always a crowd-pleaser.
- Gifting: Pack these tarts in a decorative box for a thoughtful and delicious homemade gift. They’re perfect for showing someone you care.
- Family Desserts: Even casual family dinners can be made special with these tarts. Kids and adults alike love the combination of chocolate and strawberries, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
For the Tart Shells:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Topping:
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 tablespoons apricot jam, warmed (optional, for glaze)
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor
- Rolling pin
- 4-inch tart pans
- Parchment paper
- Baking beans or pie weights
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Silicone spatula

How to make Chocolate Strawberry Tarts
Prepare the Tart Shells:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease six 4-inch tart pans.
- Make the Dough: In a food processor, pulse the flour and powdered sugar to combine. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Roll and Shape: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut circles to fit your tart pans and press the dough into the pans, trimming any excess. Prick the bottoms with a fork.
- Bake: Bake the tart shells for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Let them cool completely.
Make the Chocolate Filling:
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the chocolate with the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fill the Tarts: Pour the chocolate mixture into the cooled tart shells, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the filling is set.
Add the Strawberry Topping:
- Arrange the Strawberries: Place sliced strawberries on top of the set chocolate filling in an overlapping pattern.
- Optional Glaze: Brush the strawberries lightly with warmed apricot jam for a glossy finish.
Serve:
- Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. These tarts are best enjoyed fresh.
Helpful Tips
- Keep the Butter Cold: Use cold, cubed butter when making the tart dough to ensure a flaky crust. Handle the dough as little as possible to prevent it from warming up.
- Chill the Dough: Always chill the tart dough before rolling it out. This helps it hold its shape while baking.
- Use Pie Weights: When baking the tart shells, use parchment paper and pie weights to prevent the crust from puffing up.
- Melt Chocolate Gently: If using a microwave to melt the chocolate, heat it in 15-second intervals, stirring each time to avoid burning.
- Let the Filling Set: Allow the chocolate filling to set in the refrigerator before adding the strawberries. This ensures a clean, polished look.
- Choose Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and presentation. Avoid overripe or mushy berries.
- Add a Glossy Finish: For a professional look, brush the strawberries with warmed apricot jam or a light glaze.
Optional Ingredients
- Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel over the strawberries for extra sweetness.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped almonds or pistachios over the tarts for added texture and flavor.
- White Chocolate: Drizzle melted white chocolate on top for a beautiful contrast.
- Raspberries: Substitute strawberries with raspberries for a tart twist.
- Mint Leaves: Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate filling for a sweet-salty balance.
How to Enjoy Chocolate Strawberry Tarts?
For serving, always think about presentation. My favorite way is to plate these tarts individually and garnish them with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of the warm tart and the ice cream creates a delightful combination.
Pair these tarts with coffee or espresso for a classic dessert pairing. The rich flavors of the chocolate complement the bold notes of coffee, making for a perfect after-dinner treat. For a more indulgent pairing, serve them with a glass of dessert wine or champagne to elevate the experience.
You can also serve these tarts as part of a dessert buffet. Arrange them on a platter with other small desserts like macarons, truffles, or mini cheesecakes. Their elegant appearance will make them the centerpiece of any spread, and their flavor will ensure they’re the first to disappear.
Recipe Variations
Dark Chocolate Tarts: Use dark chocolate for the filling to create a richer, more intense flavor.
Berry Medley Tarts: Top the tarts with a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for added variety.
Nutella Tarts: Replace the chocolate filling with Nutella for a hazelnut twist.
Coconut Chocolate Tarts: Add shredded coconut to the chocolate filling for a tropical flavor.
Mini Tarts: Make bite-sized versions of these tarts for parties or events.
Vegan Tarts: Use dairy-free chocolate and coconut cream to create a vegan-friendly version of this dessert.
How to Store
Store these tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the strawberries fresh by adding them just before serving. If you’re preparing them in advance, store the tart shells and chocolate filling separately, then assemble them when ready to serve.
For longer storage, freeze the unassembled tart shells. Thaw them at room temperature, then add the chocolate filling and strawberries. Freezing the shells ensures they maintain their crisp texture, even after thawing.
FAQ
Why does my tart crust shrink during baking?
- Tart crusts shrink if the dough is overworked or not chilled properly before baking. Ensure the dough is well-chilled and avoid stretching it when pressing into the tart pans.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream for the chocolate filling?
- While heavy cream creates a rich, silky filling, whole milk can be used in a pinch. The texture might be slightly less creamy.
How do I prevent my chocolate filling from cracking?
- Make sure to melt the chocolate gently and stir it well to create a smooth consistency. Avoid over-chilling the tarts after assembly.
Can I make the tart shells ahead of time?
- Yes, tart shells can be baked and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days before filling.
What can I use instead of strawberries?
- You can use raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or even thinly sliced kiwis for a different flavor profile.
How do I get a glossy finish on the strawberries?
- Brush the strawberries with warmed apricot jam or a neutral glaze for a professional, shiny finish.
Why is my tart dough crumbly and hard to work with?
- If the dough is too dry, add cold water one teaspoon at a time until it comes together. Avoid over-mixing to keep the crust tender.
Can I use a store-bought crust?
- Yes, a pre-made tart crust can save time and works well if you’re short on preparation time.
How long do the tarts stay fresh?
- Assembled tarts are best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Keep them refrigerated and add fresh strawberries right before serving for the best texture.
What’s the best way to slice strawberries for tarts?
- Use a sharp knife to slice strawberries thinly for even coverage and a polished presentation. Arrange them in overlapping layers for a professional look.
Chocolate Strawberry Tarts
Course: DessertCuisine: French, AmericanDifficulty: Easy6
tarts30
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minutesThis Chocolate Strawberry Tarts recipe combines rich chocolate and fresh strawberries in a buttery tart shell. Perfect for celebrations, romantic dinners, or a sweet treat anytime!
Ingredients
- For the Tart Shells:
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water
- For the Chocolate Filling:
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Strawberry Topping:
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons apricot jam, warmed (optional, for glaze)
Directions
- Prepare the Tart Shells:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease six 4-inch tart pans.
- Make the Dough: In a food processor, pulse the flour and powdered sugar to combine. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes.
- Roll and Shape: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut circles to fit your tart pans and press the dough into the pans, trimming any excess. Prick the bottoms with a fork.
- Bake: Bake the tart shells for 12-15 minutes or until golden. Let them cool completely.
- Make the Chocolate Filling:
- Melt the Chocolate: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the chocolate with the heavy cream, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Fill the Tarts: Pour the chocolate mixture into the cooled tart shells, spreading evenly. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes until the filling is set.
- Add the Strawberry Topping:
- Arrange the Strawberries: Place sliced strawberries on top of the set chocolate filling in an overlapping pattern.
- Optional Glaze: Brush the strawberries lightly with warmed apricot jam for a glossy finish.
- Serve:
- Enjoy: Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. These tarts are best enjoyed fresh.