Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
Highlighted under: Artisan Dessert Bakes
I absolutely adore this Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart! The combination of fresh strawberries and decadent chocolate is a match made in heaven. Whether it’s for a casual family dessert or a fancy gathering, this tart never fails to impress. The buttery crust cradles a rich chocolate filling, while the homemade strawberry jam adds a burst of fruity goodness. If you're looking for a treat that's both elegant and delicious, you've landed in the right place. Let’s make this scrumptious tart together!
When I first made this Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart, I couldn't believe how simple yet impressive it turned out. The process of creating homemade strawberry jam is genuinely rewarding, and seeing it set atop a smooth chocolate layer is just magical. I recommend using ripe strawberries for the jam to maximize sweetness and flavor.
The tart crust is buttery and crumbly, just the way I enjoy it. I find that chilling the crust after baking helps it hold its shape better. It's these little details that elevate this dessert from simple to extraordinary!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Decadent chocolate silkiness balanced with sweet strawberry jam
- Buttery crust with a satisfying crunch
- A stunning centerpiece for any gathering or celebration
Crafting the Perfect Tart Crust
The tart crust is the backbone of this dessert, providing a buttery contrast to the rich chocolate and sweet jam. When you're mixing the ingredients, aim for a crumbly texture before adding the egg yolk. This ensures a flaky and tender crust that won’t crumble under the weight of the fillings. If your dough feels too dry, don't hesitate to add more ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until it holds together without becoming sticky.
Once you’ve pressed the dough into the tart pan, pricking it with a fork is crucial. This step prevents air bubbles from forming during baking, so your crust remains flat and ready for the filling. Bake until the edges turn golden brown, which typically takes about 20 minutes. Allowing it to cool completely before filling is essential; otherwise, the chocolate can melt and seep into the crust, compromising its texture.
Mastering the Strawberry Jam
Making homemade strawberry jam for your tart elevates the flavor tremendously. The key to achieving the right consistency is patience; you'll want to cook the mixture until it thickens, which generally takes around 15 minutes on medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Watch for signs of doneness—when the jam coats the back of a spoon without instantly dripping, you know it's ready.
If you're short on time or strawberries are out of season, you can substitute with frozen strawberries. Just thaw and drain excess water before cooking. Alternatively, you could experiment with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sugar levels based on the natural sweetness of the fruit you're using to maintain that delightful balance between tart and sweet.
Perfecting the Chocolate Filling
The chocolate filling should be rich and silky, complementing the tartness of the strawberry jam beautifully. To achieve this, ensure your heavy cream is heated just until it's steaming; boiling can cause it to separate. Adding the chocolate chips at this stage allows them to melt thoroughly; stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy. If you notice any graininess, you can whisk in a bit more warm cream to bring it back together.
Let the filling cool slightly before pouring it over the crust to avoid cooking the shell further or ruining the layering effect. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the chocolate mixture for a delightful contrast that amplifies the sweetness from the jam. If dark chocolate isn’t to your taste, feel free to swap in milk chocolate or a dairy-free chocolate option for a different twist.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the Chocolate Filling
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Jam
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Prepare all ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Make the Tart Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly.
Prepare the Strawberry Jam
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool.
Create the Chocolate Filling
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until steaming. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips and butter. Stir until fully melted and combined. Add the vanilla extract.
Assemble the Tart
Once the chocolate filling is set, spread the cooled strawberry jam evenly over the top. Chill the assembled tart in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Let the tart cool completely before slicing for the best presentation.
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart is a stunning centerpiece and can be served as is or topped with whipped cream for added indulgence. Fresh mint leaves can add a refreshing touch, making the presentation even more appealing. Slice the tart into wedges, and consider pairing each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful temperature contrast that will mesmerize your guests.
For a more casual approach, you can serve the tart with a simple dusting of powdered sugar. This not only enhances the look but also adds an extra hint of sweetness. Be mindful when cutting the tart—using a sharp knife dipped in warm water can help achieve clean cuts and showcase the beautiful layers of chocolate and strawberry.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This tart can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for parties or gatherings. To store leftovers, cover the tart tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld beautifully, but be cautious not to leave it out too long at room temperature, as the chocolate may soften too much.
If you want to prepare components ahead, both the strawberry jam and chocolate filling can be made a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The jam will remain fresh, while the chocolate filling can be gently reheated to restore its silky texture before assembling the tart. It’s a smart way to make this dessert stress-free, allowing you to enjoy the process and the results.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your tart crust cracks or crumbles, it may be a sign that it was overworked or not chilled long enough before baking. Ensure you handle the dough gently and allow it to rest briefly in the refrigerator after mixing. If you find your strawberry jam is too runny, consider cooking it a bit longer to achieve that perfect spreadable consistency; the sugar helps to thicken as it cools.
For the chocolate filling, if it seizes up or doesn't pour smoothly, don't worry! Gently reheating it with a splash of heavy cream can help restore the ideal texture. Always taste along the way and adjust with a bit more sugar or citrus juice if the flavors need balance. Cooking is all about trial and improvement—don’t hesitate to experiment!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam?
Yes, but fresh strawberries yield a better flavor and texture.
→ How long can I store the tart?
The tart can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I substitute the dark chocolate with milk chocolate?
Yes, but the tart will be sweeter; adjust sugar accordingly.
→ Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
I absolutely adore this Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart! The combination of fresh strawberries and decadent chocolate is a match made in heaven. Whether it’s for a casual family dessert or a fancy gathering, this tart never fails to impress. The buttery crust cradles a rich chocolate filling, while the homemade strawberry jam adds a burst of fruity goodness. If you're looking for a treat that's both elegant and delicious, you've landed in the right place. Let’s make this scrumptious tart together!
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Artisan Dessert Bakes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
For the Chocolate Filling
- 1 cup dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Jam
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and diced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and enough ice water to form a dough. Press the dough into a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden. Allow to cool.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the diced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool.
In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until steaming. Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips and butter. Stir until fully melted and combined. Add the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly before pouring over the cooled tart crust.
Once the chocolate filling is set, spread the cooled strawberry jam evenly over the top. Chill the assembled tart in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, garnish each slice with fresh strawberries or whipped cream for a beautiful presentation.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 28g
- Protein: 8g