Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Strawberry Custard Tart combines a flaky crust, silky custard, and sweet fresh strawberries in every bite. It looks impressive yet is surprisingly simple to make at home. The balance of creamy filling and fresh fruit creates a light and satisfying dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the tart crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the custard filling:
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
For the topping:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam or apricot jam
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar.
Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
Press the dough into a tart pan evenly across the bottom and sides.
Chill the crust for 15 minutes.
Bake the crust for 18 to 22 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
For the custard, heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and butter.
Allow the custard to cool slightly, then spread it evenly into the cooled tart crust.
Arrange sliced strawberries neatly over the custard.
Warm the jam slightly and brush it over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving.
Servings and timing
Servings: 8 servings
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Variations
Use mixed berries instead of only strawberries.
Add a layer of melted chocolate under the custard for extra richness.
Use lemon zest in the custard for a fresh citrus flavor.
Top with whipped cream for an extra creamy dessert.
Make mini tartlets for individual servings.
Storage/Reheating
Store Strawberry Custard Tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The tart crust may soften slightly over time because of the custard and fruit.
Do not freeze, as the custard texture may change after thawing.
Serve chilled directly from the refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought tart crust?
Yes. A pre-made tart shell works well for saving time.
Why is my custard lumpy?
The custard may have cooked too quickly or was not whisked continuously.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and appearance.
How do I keep the tart crust crisp?
Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the custard filling.
Can I make the tart ahead of time?
Yes. It can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated.
What other fruits work well?
Blueberries, raspberries, kiwi, peaches, or mango slices all work beautifully.
Can I make this tart gluten-free?
Yes. Use a gluten-free tart crust recipe or flour substitute.
Why does the tart need chilling?
Chilling helps the custard firm up and improves the overall texture.
Can I add flavor to the custard?
Yes. Vanilla, almond extract, citrus zest, or even matcha powder can be added.
What glaze is best for the strawberries?
Warm strawberry jam or apricot jam gives the fruit a shiny bakery-style finish.
Conclusion
Strawberry Custard Tart is a classic dessert with a crisp buttery crust, silky vanilla custard, and fresh strawberries. Elegant, creamy, and refreshing, this tart is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want a beautiful homemade dessert.
PrintStrawberry Custard Tart
Strawberry Custard Tart is a beautiful dessert featuring a crisp buttery tart crust filled with silky vanilla custard and topped with fresh juicy strawberries. This elegant and refreshing dessert is perfect for spring gatherings, celebrations, or afternoon tea.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Bake and Chill
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 tablespoons strawberry jam or apricot jam
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar.
- Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and cold water, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Press the dough evenly into a tart pan across the bottom and sides.
- Chill the crust for 15 minutes.
- Bake the crust for 18 to 22 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow it to cool completely.
- For the custard, heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter.
- Allow the custard to cool slightly, then spread it evenly into the cooled tart crust.
- Arrange the sliced strawberries neatly over the custard.
- Warm the jam slightly and brush it over the strawberries for a glossy finish.
- Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving.
Notes
- Use mixed berries or kiwi slices for a colorful fruit variation.
- Add a thin layer of melted chocolate under the custard for extra richness.
- Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Allow the tart crust to cool completely before filling to keep it crisp.
- Fresh strawberries provide the best texture and presentation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Sugar: 22 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
