Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
When I discovered this Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart recipe, I was instantly drawn in by its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. I could hardly wait to recreate it for a special gathering. The tart crust is perfectly buttery, and the combination of sweet strawberries and decadent chocolate creates a flavor explosion. Not only is it a show-stopper, but it’s surprisingly simple to make, allowing me to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, this is a dessert you’ll want to share with family and friends!
As I made this tart, I decided to experiment with the filling. Initially, I planned to use store-bought chocolate jam, but I found an incredibly simple recipe online that allowed me to make a richer chocolate layer from scratch. The result was so satisfying that it added depth to the overall flavor of the tart. It’s amazing how a little extra effort can take the end result from good to fantastic!
While assembling the tart, I learned the importance of chilling the crust after baking. This not only helps to prevent sogginess but also allows the tart to hold its shape beautifully when sliced. It’s little tips like these that truly elevate home baking and give you that professional touch.
Why You'll Love This Tart
- The harmonious blend of fresh strawberries and rich chocolate creates a delightful contrast.
- A buttery tart crust that crumbles perfectly with every bite.
- Visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion or celebration.
The Role of Each Ingredient
Understanding the role of each ingredient in the Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart can elevate your baking experience. The all-purpose flour acts as the foundation, providing structure to the buttery tart crust. The powdered sugar adds sweetness and aids in creating a tender texture that melts in your mouth. It's essential to use chilled butter; this keeps the fat solid and helps create a flaky texture in the crust, which is crucial for a perfect bite.
For the filling, the dark chocolate is a star player, contributing depth and richness to the flavor profile. Opt for a good quality chocolate with at least 60% cocoa solids to ensure a robust taste that balances the sweetness of the strawberry jam. The heavy cream, when heated, helps achieve a silky, smooth consistency in the chocolate filling, making it luscious and indulgent.
Techniques for Success
When making the tart crust, be wary of overworking the dough, which can lead to a tough texture. I suggest mixing until just combined; the dough should hold together without being overly smooth. If the dough feels too crumbly, a little more cold water can be added gradually until it forms. Also, remember to press it evenly into the tart pan to avoid an uneven bake.
As you prepare the chocolate filling, keep a close eye on the heavy cream as it heats. You want it to simmer gently, not boil, as boiling can create a grainy texture in the chocolate. Stir until the chocolate is fully melted and combined with the cream for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and glossy.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart:
For the Tart Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- ½ cup dark chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
Instructions
Follow these steps to make your tart:
Make the Tart Crust
In a food processor, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
Prepare the Chocolate Filling
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just simmers. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Assemble the Tart
Once the tart crust is cooled, spread the strawberry jam evenly over the bottom. Pour the chocolate mixture over the jam layer, spreading it evenly. Chill the tart for at least 1 hour to set.
Garnish and Serve
Before serving, add fresh strawberries on top for garnish. Slice the tart and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before chilling. It enhances the flavor beautifully!
Make-Ahead Tips
This tart can be made in advance, making it an excellent choice for gatherings. You can prepare the tart crust the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Once it's baked and cooled, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. Similarly, the chocolate filling can be made ahead of time; just warm it slightly if it firms up too much before assembling.
If you’re planning to serve the tart later, consider adding the fresh strawberries on top just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and prevent them from becoming mushy.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
To store leftover tart, cover it loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This tart is best enjoyed within 3 days to maintain optimal flavor and texture. If you find it becoming a bit dry, a light drizzle of fresh cream or a scoop of whipped cream on serving can rejuvenate it beautifully.
For a unique twist, try incorporating a layer of cream cheese mixed with a touch of powdered sugar beneath the chocolate filling for a tangy contrast. Additionally, consider pairing the tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the dessert experience.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them completely to avoid excess moisture.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter filling, milk chocolate is a great choice.
→ Is it possible to make the tart in advance?
Yes, you can make the tart a day in advance. Just garnish with fresh strawberries right before serving for best results.
Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
When I discovered this Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart recipe, I was instantly drawn in by its rich flavors and beautiful presentation. I could hardly wait to recreate it for a special gathering. The tart crust is perfectly buttery, and the combination of sweet strawberries and decadent chocolate creates a flavor explosion. Not only is it a show-stopper, but it’s surprisingly simple to make, allowing me to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. Trust me, this is a dessert you’ll want to share with family and friends!
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tart Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 cup strawberry jam
- ½ cup dark chocolate, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh strawberries for garnish
How-To Steps
In a food processor, combine the flour and powdered sugar. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the crust for 20 minutes, then let it cool.
In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just simmers. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate and vanilla. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth. Let it cool slightly.
Once the tart crust is cooled, spread the strawberry jam evenly over the bottom. Pour the chocolate mixture over the jam layer, spreading it evenly. Chill the tart for at least 1 hour to set.
Before serving, add fresh strawberries on top for garnish. Slice the tart and enjoy this delightful dessert!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate layer before chilling. It enhances the flavor beautifully!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g