Caramelized Strawberry Tart

Name: Caramelized Strawberry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon butter; Whipped cream (optional); Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Pastry & Sweets Corner

I absolutely love making this Caramelized Strawberry Tart! It combines the vibrant sweetness of strawberries with a buttery, flaky crust that’s hard to resist. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. I enjoy preparing this tart not just for family gatherings, but also as a delightful treat for myself when I need a little pick-me-up. The caramelized strawberries add a beautiful shine and rich flavor that elevates the traditional tart to something truly special.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2026-02-19T18:02:21.946Z

When I first ventured into baking tarts, I quickly realized that caramelizing fruit takes a dish from ordinary to extraordinary. I decided to try it with strawberries, and the results were beyond my expectations! The sweetness of caramelized strawberries, combined with a hint of vanilla, truly transforms this dessert into a masterpiece.

One key tip I learned is to ensure that the strawberries are fresh and ripe for the best flavor. Caramelization intensifies the natural sugars, so quality ingredients will yield the most delicious results. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this tart!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
The rich, buttery crust complements the strawberries beautifully
An impressive dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make

Understanding the Ingredients

The crust plays a vital role in balancing the sweetness of the strawberries with its buttery flavor. Using chilled unsalted butter ensures that the crust is flaky. If you prefer a slightly sweeter crust, you can add a tablespoon of powdered sugar, which will create a delicate texture even while enhancing the flavor profile. Remember, the key to a successful tart is to handle the dough as little as possible to prevent it from becoming tough.

The filling's star, strawberries, should be fresh and ripe for the best flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries or even mixed berries. However, be aware that their juices may vary significantly, so adjust the sugar and cornstarch accordingly to achieve a similar consistency and sweetness. A touch of balsamic vinegar can bring out the flavor of the berries as well.

Perfecting Technique

When rolling out the dough, make sure your surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking. If the dough starts to stick, use a bench scraper to gently lift it. Rolling from the center outward ensures an even thickness, and you want the crust to be about 1/8 inch thick. Don’t rush this process; uneven thickness can lead to an uneven bake, leading to a soggy bottom or burnt edges.

Blind baking is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. After your initial 15 minutes with the weights, make sure to check the crust; it should be set but not browned. After removing the weights, if you notice any bubbles, gently press them down with the back of a spoon. This technique ensures a stable base for the caramelized strawberries, preventing a soggy tart.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before you begin this delightful tart!

Crust

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter

For Serving

Whipped cream (optional)
Fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create a beautiful tart.

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Gently press the dough into the pan and trim the edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.

Blind Bake the Crust

Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and weights, then bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden brown. Allow to cool.

Caramelize the Strawberries

In a large skillet, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Stir in cornstarch and cook for an additional 2 minutes until glossy. Remove from heat and stir in butter.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the caramelized strawberry mixture into the cooled crust, spreading evenly. Let it cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Serve

Slice the tart and serve with whipped cream and mint leaves for garnish, if desired. Enjoy the delightful flavors!

Remember to allow the tart to chill for the best texture.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the strawberries while caramelizing for a unique twist.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Caramelized Strawberry Tart can be made a day ahead, making it a great choice for entertaining. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the tart fresh. Just remember to add whipped cream just before serving, as it can become soggy if it sits too long. For an added twist, you can also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast between the warm tart and the cold ice cream.

If you're planning to freeze the tart, it's best to freeze it unfilled. Wrap the unbaked crust tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick dessert treat; just ensure they are stored properly to prevent freezer burn.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you experience a soggy crust, it’s often due to under-baking. Make sure you follow the blind baking steps accurately and check the crust for a light golden color. If it's browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil. This cautious approach helps to protect the crust while ensuring that the bottom fully bakes and sets.

When caramelizing strawberries, if you find the mixture is too runny, you can create a slurry with additional cornstarch and water to thicken it. Remember, the mixture should be thick and glossy, and if it seems too thick, just add a splash of water to loosen it up slightly. This will guarantee that your filling holds together nicely once assembled.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but fresh strawberries yield the best flavor and texture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days in advance.

→ Is this tart suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the baked tart, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.