Chocolate Strawberry Tart

Name: Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I love making desserts that impress, and this Chocolate Strawberry Tart is a showstopper! With a rich, velvety chocolate ganache nestled in a buttery crust and topped with fresh strawberries, it combines rich flavors with vibrant colors. Each slice melts in your mouth, making it perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings. I enjoy preparing this tart because it allows me to play with textures and flavors, and the visual appeal is utterly delightful. I can’t wait for you to experience this delicious treat!

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-12T07:41:35.446Z

When I first made this Chocolate Strawberry Tart, I was amazed at how simply combining a few ingredients could create such a luxurious dessert. The chocolate ganache is made with high-quality dark chocolate, which gives it depth, and pairing it with fresh strawberries adds a wonderful contrast. I recommend using strawberries at their peak ripeness for the best flavor.

One of the tips I've learned is to let the tart chill in the fridge for at least an hour before serving; this allows the ganache to set perfectly. I usually enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream to elevate the experience. Trust me, once you try this tart, it will become a favorite!

Why You'll Love This Chocolate Strawberry Tart
Rich chocolate flavor balanced with the freshness of strawberries
Elegant presentation perfect for any occasion
Decadent and satisfying without being overly sweet

Choosing the Right Chocolate

Selecting the best chocolate for your ganache is crucial for achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your Chocolate Strawberry Tart. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with a cacao percentage between 60% to 70%. This range provides a balanced richness without overwhelming sweetness. When melted into the ganache, the chocolate should create a glossy, smooth consistency that enhances the overall dessert experience.

If you're a fan of sweeter flavors, you can consider semi-sweet chocolate, but try to avoid bittersweet varieties, which may alter the balance of flavors. Additionally, if you're looking for an alternative to dark chocolate, you can experiment with milk chocolate; just keep in mind that it will make the tart sweeter and creamier.

Perfecting the Tart Crust

The crust for this tart is essential to hold and complement the rich ganache filling. Make sure the butter is softened but not melted, as it helps create the flaky texture you desire. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water, one at a time, until you reach the right consistency. Pressing the dough directly into the tart pan creates a sturdy foundation; use your fingers to ensure even thickness and avoid thick edges.

After baking, let the crust cool completely. If you notice puffing during baking, prick it gently with a fork immediately after removing it from the oven, allowing steam to escape and preventing a soggy bottom. For an even more pronounced cocoa flavor, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour, which adds a distinct nuttiness.

Serving and Storing Your Tart

For the best texture and flavor, serve the Chocolate Strawberry Tart chilled. This allows the ganache to set properly and gives a luxurious mouthfeel. I recommend slicing the tart with a sharp knife dipped in warm water for cleaner edges, ensuring each piece looks as beautiful as it tastes. Garnishing with fresh mint adds a refreshing aroma, enhancing the overall experience.

If you have leftovers, store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. While it can be frozen, the fresh strawberries may lose their texture and appearance. If you plan to serve the tart later, consider adding the strawberries just before serving to maintain their freshness and vibrant look.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful tart:

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg

For the Ganache

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Topping

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Once you have everything ready, you can step into the kitchen and start the process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Chocolate Strawberry Tart:

Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 15-20 minutes, or until it is set. Allow it to cool completely before filling.

Make the Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just simmers. Pour it over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes. Add the butter and stir until smooth and glossy.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the ganache into the cooled crust and spread it evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour until set. Once set, layer the strawberry halves on top.

Serve

Slice the tart and serve it chilled or at room temperature, garnished with mint leaves if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Strawberry Tart with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For a fun variation, try using other fruits like raspberries or blueberries on top of the ganache. They add different flavors and textures while still looking stunning.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with tart crusts is crumbling after baking, which often happens if the dough was overworked or not pressed firmly enough into the pan. To fix this, ensure you handle the dough gently and focus on pressing it well into all corners of the tart pan. If crumbling occurs, you can use leftover crumbs to sprinkle over your plated slices as a decorative touch.

Another problem could be a ganache that doesn’t set properly. This can occur if the chocolate wasn't tempered correctly with the cream. Always let the cream come to a simmer, and if your ganache remains too soft after cooling, melting a little extra chocolate to stir in can help thicken it.

Variations to Try

While the classic Chocolate Strawberry Tart is a standout, you can easily customize it. For instance, adding a dash of espresso powder to the ganache can enhance the chocolate flavor with a delightful coffee note. Similarly, a splash of vanilla extract can bring a warm sweetness that complements the fruity strawberries beautifully.

You can also switch out the fruits for different seasonal options. Raspberries or blueberries make excellent substitutes, providing a burst of tartness that contrasts nicely with the chocolate. If you’re looking for a nutty flavor, consider topping the tart with crushed pistachios or hazelnuts for added texture and a touch of sophistication.

Make-Ahead Tips

To streamline your dessert preparation, you can make the crust and ganache a day in advance. Keep the baked crust covered tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out and store the ganache in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, gently reheat the ganache in the microwave in short bursts to restore its pourable consistency.

Assembling the tart just before serving ensures that the strawberries look fresh and vibrant. If you're preparing for an event, I find it's best to add the topping shortly before guests arrive, so the berries maintain their appeal and the tart remains at its optimal texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust a day in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator.

→ What if I don’t have dark chocolate?

You can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate, but the flavor will be slightly sweeter.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.

→ Can I freeze the tart?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the ganache may change upon thawing.