Strawberry Custard Tarts are a delightful treat that combines a buttery shortcake pastry with a silky crème pâtissière filling, topped with fresh strawberries and a sweet strawberry glaze. Perfect for celebrations, picnics, or even a sweet ending to a family dinner, these tarts offer an irresistible blend of flavors and textures. The bright red strawberries paired with the creamy custard create a stunning dessert that not only tastes amazing but also looks beautiful on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of creamy custard and fresh strawberries creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to summer barbecues or simply satisfying a sweet tooth.
• Impressive Presentation: These tarts are visually stunning, making them a great addition to your dessert table.
• Homemade Goodness: Making the tart shells and custard from scratch ensures fresh and wholesome ingredients.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to get creative with how you arrange the strawberries, making each tart unique.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Strawberry Custard Tarts, gather your tools and prepare your kitchen for this delightful baking adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Tart pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Saucepan
• Sieve
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Tart pans: Help shape the pastry perfectly, ensuring even cooking and easy removal.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Saucepan: Ideal for heating milk and preparing the custard mixture.
• Sieve: Ensures your pastry cream is smooth by removing lumps.

Ingredients

Shortcake pastry with a silky creme patissiere custard filling, topped with fresh strawberries and a sticky sweet strawberry glaze.

• 1 2/3 cup All purpose Flour (225g)
• 1 stick Butter (113g) (cold)
• 1/3 cup White Sugar (66g)
• 1 Egg
• 1/4 cup Milk (60ml)
• 2 cups Milk (480ml) (full-fat)
• 5 Egg Yolks
• 1/2 cup White Sugar (100g)
• 4 tbsp Cornstarch
• 2 tsp Vanilla
• 3/4 stick Unsalted Butter (85g)
• 16 oz Fresh Strawberries (500g)
• 9 oz Strawberries (250g) (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup Icing Sugar (120g)
• 1/3 cup Water (80ml)
• 1 tbsp Corn starch

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Custard Tarts

Step 1: Make the Crème Pâtissière

1. Start by preparing the crème pâtissière at least two hours in advance. For best results, make it the day before so it can rest overnight.

Step 2: Make the Tart Cases

1. Cut the cold butter into small chunks and add them to a bowl with flour.
2. Rub the butter into the flour until large lumps disappear, creating a breadcrumb-like texture.
3. Mix in sugar.
4. Lightly beat the egg in another bowl, then mix it into the pastry using a fork.
5. Gradually add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you form a dough. You may not need all of it.
6. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in a ziplock bag. Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
7. Roll out chilled dough gently to about 3mm thickness.
8. Cut circles slightly larger than your tart pans and press them into each case, trimming as needed.
9. Chill again for about 20 minutes while preheating your oven to 375°F / 190°C (or180° C for fan-assisted ovens).
10. Blind bake by filling each tart case with baking paper and baking beans or uncooked rice for about six minutes. Remove beans/rice and paper; bake for another six to seven minutes until golden. Allow to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Custard Filling

1. In one bowl, whisk two tablespoons of sugar with egg yolks, flour, and cornstarch until combined.
2. In another saucepan, combine remaining sugar with milk and vanilla over medium-low heat until warmed up.
3. Slowly drizzle warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously; repeat until fully combined.
4. Pour everything back into the saucepan carefully to avoid scrambling eggs.
5. Whisk constantly over medium heat until it boils; cook for one minute or until thickened enough to draw lines on spoon’s back—remove from heat when ready.
6. Strain through a sieve into another bowl to ensure smoothness.
7. Gradually whisk in butter pieces until fully melted; cover with plastic wrap touching cream’s surface to prevent skin formation. Refrigerate for at least two hours or overnight.

Step 4: Make the Strawberry Glaze

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all glaze ingredients.
2. Stir constantly until strawberries break down and mixture thickens; use a potato masher if necessary.
3. Bring to boil; reduce until thick bubbles form—remove from heat once done.
4. Pass through sieve to remove seeds/lumps; let cool completely before using.

Step 5: Assemble the Strawberry Tarts

1. Assemble right before serving to avoid sogginess!
2. Evenly fill cooled tart cases with crème pâtissière filling.
3. Top attractively with fresh strawberries—get creative!
4. Generously brush cooled strawberry glaze over berries.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Custard Tarts! These treats are best eaten fresh on the same day they are made!

How to Serve Strawberry Custard Tarts

Strawberry Custard Tarts are a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve these tarts that will impress your guests and elevate your dessert presentation.

Individual Portions

• Serve each tart on a small dessert plate for a charming individual serving. This makes it easy for guests to enjoy without needing to slice.

Garnish with Mint

• Add fresh mint leaves on top of the tarts for a pop of color and a refreshing flavor contrast. The mint complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.

Accompany with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side adds richness and a light, airy texture that balances the custard perfectly.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or strawberry ice cream served alongside the tarts creates a deliciously creamy contrast. The cold ice cream enhances the overall experience.

Drizzle with Extra Glaze

• For an extra touch, drizzle additional strawberry glaze over the top before serving. This not only enhances visual appeal but also intensifies the strawberry flavor.

How to Perfect Strawberry Custard Tarts

Creating the perfect Strawberry Custard Tarts requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your tarts turn out exceptional every time.

• Chill Your Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are chilled before starting. Cold ingredients help create a flaky pastry texture.
• Don’t Overmix: When making the pastry dough, avoid overmixing. This keeps your crust tender and flaky, preventing it from becoming tough.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Opt for ripe, fresh strawberries when topping your tarts. They offer better flavor and a more appealing look than frozen alternatives.
• Let Custard Cool Completely: After making the custard filling, allow it to cool completely before filling the tart shells. This helps maintain the integrity of the pastry.
• Assemble Just Before Serving: For optimal texture, assemble your tarts right before serving. This prevents the pastry from becoming soggy due to moisture from the custard and glaze.
• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add different flavors to your custard or glaze, like lemon zest or almond extract, for a unique twist on this classic dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Custard Tarts

Complementing Strawberry Custard Tarts with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that pair wonderfully with these sweet treats.

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and variety, balancing out the richness of the tarts.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that beautifully offsets sweetness.
3. Chocolate Fondue: A small pot of chocolate fondue offers an interactive element where guests can dip fruits or pieces of tart.
4. Tea Selection: Serve various herbal or green teas that provide refreshment and cleanse the palate between bites.
5. Savory Crostini: Lightly toasted crostini topped with creamy spreads can create an enjoyable textural contrast.
6. Sparkling Water Infused with Berries: A refreshing drink choice; sparkling water infused with berries adds elegance and complements dessert flavors.
7. Meringue Kisses: Light and airy meringue kisses make for an excellent sweet nibble alongside rich strawberry tarts.
8. Pistachio Pesto Dip: A unique pesto dip can provide a savory counterpoint that intrigues guests’ palates alongside sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Custard Tarts, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the pastry to chill can lead to a tough texture. Be sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
• Overbaking the tart shells: Baking too long can result in a dry tart base. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden.
• Rushing the custard process: If you heat the custard too quickly, you may end up with scrambled eggs. Always warm it gently and whisk continuously.
• Not using fresh strawberries: Stale or overripe strawberries can ruin the tart’s flavor. Choose firm, ripe strawberries for the best taste and presentation.
• Assembling too early: Filling and topping tarts ahead of time can make them soggy. Assemble just before serving for optimal texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Strawberry Custard Tarts in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• It’s best to keep the glaze separate until ready to serve.

Freezing Strawberry Custard Tarts

• These tarts can be frozen without the strawberry glaze.
• Wrap each tart tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will maintain quality for about 1 month in the freezer.

Reheating Strawberry Custard Tarts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tarts on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual tarts on a microwave-safe plate for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a non-stick skillet over low heat. Warm tarts gently, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Strawberry Custard Tarts?

Strawberry Custard Tarts are delicious desserts made of buttery pastry filled with smooth custard and topped with fresh strawberries and glaze.

Can I use frozen strawberries for my tarts?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just be sure to thaw them completely before using.

How do I prevent my custard from curdling?

To prevent curdling, always add warm milk slowly to your egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly.

How long do Strawberry Custard Tarts last?

These tarts are best enjoyed fresh but can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator when stored properly.

Can I customize my Strawberry Custard Tart recipe?

Absolutely! Consider adding different fruits like raspberries or blueberries or infusing flavors like lemon or almond into your custard.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Custard Tarts are a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Their versatility allows for endless customization, whether you prefer different fruits or flavor variations. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your taste buds will thank you!