Tarte Aux Fraises

Name: Tarte Aux Fraises
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pre-made tart shell (9-inch); 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and halved); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 egg yolk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon butter

Indulge in the exquisite flavors of Tarte aux Fraises, a classic French dessert that beautifully showcases fresh strawberries atop a rich pastry cream. This tart is perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat to savor on a sunny afternoon. With its crisp crust and luscious filling, it’s sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create a stunning dessert that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ingredients

1 pre-made tart shell (9-inch)
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 egg yolk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon butter

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 8 servings. Preparation time is about 30 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

For one serving (1/8 of the tart), the nutritional value is approximately:

Calories: 250
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 10g

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the tart shell in a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork.
Bake the tart shell for 15 minutes until lightly golden.
In a saucepan, mix sugar and cornstarch.
In a bowl, whisk the egg yolk with cream and vanilla.
Gradually add the cream mixture to the saucepan, stirring constantly.
Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted.
Pour the custard into the tart shell and let cool.
Arrange halved strawberries on top of the cooled tart.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Additionally, any berries can replace strawberries if you want to experiment with flavors.

Serving and Pairings

Tarte aux Fraises pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Served alongside a cup of tea or coffee, it makes for a delightful afternoon snack.

Storage and Reheating

Store the tart in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It is best enjoyed fresh. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change when thawed.

Cooking Mistakes

Overbaking the tart shell can lead to a tough texture.
Not letting the custard cool properly can cause the strawberries to wilt.
Using unripe strawberries can affect the overall sweetness.
Not pricking the tart shell can cause it to puff up.
Skipping the butter in the custard can lead to a less rich flavor.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor.
Let the custard cool completely before adding strawberries.
Try adding a layer of apricot glaze on top for shine.
Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use frozen strawberries if necessary. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.

How can I make the tart sweeter?

You can increase the amount of sugar in the custard or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top of the strawberries before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

This recipe is not vegan-friendly due to the use of dairy and eggs. However, you can substitute these ingredients with vegan alternatives.

Can I make the tart in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the tart shell and custard a day ahead. Assemble it with strawberries on the day you plan to serve it for the best freshness.

What should I do if the custard doesn’t thicken?

If your custard doesn’t thicken properly, you can return it to the heat and cook it a little longer while continuously stirring, ensuring it doesn’t boil.

Conclusion

Tarte aux Fraises is a classic dessert that combines elegance with simplicity. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate fresh strawberries and impress your guests. With this recipe, you can create a stunning tart that is sure to delight everyone at the table.