Tarte aux Fraises

This Tarte aux Fraises is a delightful French dessert that showcases the fresh flavors of strawberries on a creamy vanilla pastry base. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or any sweet occasion, this tart combines a crisp cookie crust with luscious filling and vibrant toppings. Each bite brings a taste of France, making it a standout choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and accessible ingredients, anyone can whip up this classic French dessert.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of vanilla pastry cream and fresh strawberries creates a rich yet refreshing taste that pleases every palate.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a romantic dinner, this Tarte aux Fraises fits right in.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful strawberry topping makes this tart not just delicious but also beautiful—ideal for impressing guests.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the pastry cream in advance, allowing you to assemble the tart right before serving.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Tarte aux Fraises successfully, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Small paring knife
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Offset spatula
• Tart pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Ideal for whipping egg yolks to achieve that light, airy texture essential for pastry cream.
• Offset spatula: Perfectly spreads the pastry cream evenly across the tart crust without damaging it.
• Whisk: Ensures smooth consistency in both the pastry cream and when combining ingredients.

Ingredients

This Tarte aux Fraises features a cookie crust filled with luscious vanilla pastry cream topped with fresh strawberries. A classic French dessert perfect for strawberry season!

• 1/2 vanilla bean
• 6 tablespoons sugar (divided)
• 1 1/3 cups milk (divided (330 ml total))
• 4 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 9-inch baked pâte sucrée or pâte sablee tart crust (or pie crust)
• 1 pint strawberries
• 2 tablespoons strawberry or apricot jam

How to Make Tarte aux Fraises

Step 1: Prepare the Pastry Cream Filling

Start by making the pastry cream filling. Use a small paring knife to slit open the vanilla bean half.

Step 2: Extract Vanilla Seeds

Open the bean and press flat with your knife, scraping the vanilla bean seeds onto your knife edge. Add these seeds to 3 tablespoons sugar, breaking up the seeds.

Step 3: Heat Milk

Put the vanilla sugar, empty vanilla bean pod, and 1 cup milk into a medium saucepan. Heat over medium heat, whisking to dissolve the sugar.

Step 4: Whip Egg Yolks

Meanwhile, put egg yolks in your stand mixer with the whisk attachment and set it to medium speed. Slowly add 3 tablespoons sugar while whisking until lightened in color.

Step 5: Combine Cornstarch and Milk

Whisk cornstarch into the remaining 1/3 cup of milk until smooth. Set aside as you monitor your saucepan.

Step 6: Mix Cold and Hot Milk

When milk in your saucepan reaches a low boil (watch carefully!), add the cold milk mixture from step 5 to your stand mixer on low speed.

Step 7: Incorporate Hot Milk

Slowly pour in the hot milk while mixing on low speed. Once combined, transfer everything back into your saucepan.

Step 8: Thicken Pastry Cream

Over low heat, stir constantly with a whisk until thickened (about 2 minutes). Continue whisking aggressively for another 2 minutes to ensure smoothness.

Step 9: Finish Pastry Cream

Whisk in butter, then remove from heat and discard the vanilla bean pod. Transfer pastry cream into a bowl and cover directly with plastic wrap. Let cool before refrigerating until cold.

Step 10: Assemble Tart

Remove outer ring from tart pan and place pâte sucrée shell on a serving dish. Whisk chilled pastry cream until smooth; spread evenly across tart crust using an offset spatula.

Step 11: Prepare Strawberries

Trim tops off strawberries and slice each into thin vertical slices. Arrange them over the pastry cream starting from the outside circle inward.

Step 12: Glaze Strawberries

Combine jam with water in a small bowl; microwave briefly until melted. Brush glaze over strawberries for shine.

Step 13: Chill Before Serving

Chill tart until ready to serve for maximum freshness and flavor enjoyment!

How to Serve Tarte aux Fraises

Tarte aux Fraises is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, here are some creative serving suggestions.

Elegant Plating

• Use a cake stand for an impressive display, allowing guests to admire the tart before serving.
• Add fresh mint leaves as a garnish for color and aroma.

Accompanying Beverages

• Serve with a glass of sparkling wine to complement the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Pair with herbal tea for a refreshing contrast.

Ice Cream or Sorbet

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy texture that balances the tartness of the strawberries.
• Lemon sorbet offers a zesty contrast that brightens each bite.

Fresh Fruit

• Arrange extra sliced strawberries around the tart for a vibrant presentation.
• Include seasonal fruits like raspberries or blueberries for added flavor.

How to Perfect Tarte aux Fraises

To achieve the best Tarte aux Fraises, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate your dessert and ensure it’s both beautiful and delicious.

• Use fresh strawberries: Select ripe, sweet strawberries for optimal flavor. They make all the difference in taste.
• Let pastry cream cool completely: Ensure your pastry cream is chilled before spreading it on the crust. This prevents sogginess.
• Layer strawberries carefully: Arrange strawberry slices neatly for a stunning visual appeal. Overlapping them creates an elegant look.
• Brush with jam while warm: Using slightly warmed jam helps it spread easily and gives your tart a glossy finish.
• Chill before serving: Allow the tart to chill after assembly. This helps set the layers and enhances flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Tarte aux Fraises

Tarte aux Fraises pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that can complement its rich taste. Here are some options to consider when planning your meal.

1. Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds airiness and richness, perfect alongside each slice of tart.
2. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the tart creates an indulgent contrast that chocolate lovers will enjoy.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can balance out the sweetness of the tart while adding freshness.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone can provide a rich counterpoint to the sweetness of the dessert.
5. Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy filling of Tarte aux Fraises.
6. Nut Brittle: A crunchy nut brittle adds both texture and flavor, enhancing each bite with its caramelized sweetness.
7. Vanilla Yogurt: Smooth vanilla yogurt serves as a light accompaniment, balancing out the flavors without overpowering them.
8. Espresso or Coffee: A strong coffee or espresso complements dessert nicely, providing a deep flavor contrast to the sweetness of strawberries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Tarte aux Fraises can be tricky, but avoiding common pitfalls will help you achieve a stunning result.

• Using low-quality strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are essential for the best flavor. Choose strawberries that are bright red and firm for optimal taste.
• Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the pastry cream to chill is crucial for the right texture. Skipping this step can result in a runny filling instead of a creamy one.
• Overbaking the crust: Keep an eye on your tart crust while baking. An overbaked crust can become too hard and lose its delicate texture.
• Not properly spreading the cream: Ensure the pastry cream is evenly spread across the tart crust. Uneven layers can lead to an unbalanced flavor and presentation.
• Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can affect freshness. Always follow storage instructions to maintain the tart’s quality.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Tarte aux Fraises in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Freezing Tarte aux Fraises

• It is not recommended to freeze Tarte aux Fraises as freezing can alter the texture of both the crust and strawberries.
• If necessary, freeze just the crust separately, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Reheating Tarte aux Fraises

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain crispness.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as it may make the crust soggy.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat covered with a lid for about 5 minutes. This keeps them warm without compromising texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tarte aux Fraises?

Tarte aux Fraises is a classic French strawberry tart featuring a sweet pastry crust filled with creamy vanilla custard topped with fresh strawberries.

Can I use frozen strawberries for Tarte aux Fraises?

While fresh strawberries are preferred, you may use frozen ones if necessary. Just be aware that they may release more moisture when thawed.

How do I make a gluten-free version of Tarte aux Fraises?

To make a gluten-free Tarte aux Fraises, substitute regular flour in the crust with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking.

How long does it take to prepare Tarte aux Fraises?

The total time required is about 45 minutes, including preparation and cooking. Chilling time for the pastry cream is additional.

Final Thoughts

This Tarte aux Fraises is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. You can customize it by using different fruits or flavored creams to suit your taste preferences. Try this delightful recipe today and impress your friends and family!

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Tarte aux Fraises

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful taste of Tarte aux Fraises, a classic French dessert that showcases a buttery cookie crust filled with creamy vanilla pastry cream and topped with fresh, juicy strawberries. This stunning tart is perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or romantic dinners, bringing a refreshing elegance to any occasion. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, each slice promises a taste of France that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with your loved ones.

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Ingredients

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• 1/2 vanilla bean
• 6 tablespoons sugar (divided)
• 1 1/3 cups milk (divided)
• 4 egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon butter
• 9-inch baked pâte sucrée or pâte sablee tart crust
• 1 pint strawberries
• 2 tablespoons strawberry or apricot jam

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Instructions

1. Make the pastry cream by combining the vanilla bean seeds with sugar and milk in a saucepan. Heat until dissolved.
2. Whisk egg yolks with remaining sugar until lightened in color. Add cornstarch mixed with cold milk.
3. Slowly mix hot milk into the egg mixture and return to heat until thickened.
4. Remove from heat, whisk in butter, then cool completely.
5. Spread cooled pastry cream into the tart shell and top with sliced strawberries.
6. Brush with warmed jam for a glossy finish.
7. Chill before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: French

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
• Calories: 310
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 55mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg