This Classic Strawberry Tart is a stunning dessert that celebrates the natural sweetness and beauty of ripe strawberries. With a buttery, crisp tart shell, a smooth cream cheese filling, and a glossy layer of fresh strawberries glazed with red currant jelly, this tart is as elegant as it is delicious. It’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings, afternoon tea, or any occasion that calls for a showstopping treat. The contrast of textures—from the crumbly crust to the creamy filling and juicy berries—makes every bite a delight. And the best part? It’s easier to make than it looks.
Ingredients (Serves 8):
For the Tart Crust:
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225g) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1½ to 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- ¼ cup seedless red currant jelly
Instructions:
- Make the Tart Crust:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Prick the base with a fork to prevent puffing.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the crust cool completely in the pan. - Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or whisk by hand. Once the crust is cool, spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the base. - Arrange the Strawberries:
Starting from the outside edge, arrange the halved strawberries cut-side down in concentric circles over the cream cheese filling. Continue layering until the entire surface is covered. Choose the prettiest berries for the top layer to make the tart visually stunning. - Make the Glaze:
In a small saucepan, gently heat the red currant jelly over low heat until melted and smooth. Using a pastry brush, lightly glaze the strawberries with the warm jelly. This not only adds shine but also enhances the flavor and helps preserve the fruit. - Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, carefully remove the tart from the pan and transfer to a serving plate.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve slices of this tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a fresh twist, garnish with mint leaves or a sprinkle of lemon zest. It pairs beautifully with a glass of sparkling rosé or a cup of Earl Grey tea.
Would you like a variation with a chocolate crust or maybe a mascarpone filling for a richer twist? I’ve got some delicious ideas to elevate it even further!