Tarte aux Fraises

This Tarte aux Fraises is a delightful French dessert that showcases fresh strawberries atop a creamy vanilla filling nestled in a cookie crust. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or simply to enjoy at home, this classic recipe highlights the sweetness of strawberries and the richness of pastry cream. With its stunning presentation and delicious flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require advanced baking skills.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using seasonal strawberries makes this tart vibrant and flavorful.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or a special treat for brunch.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful layers of strawberries make it visually appealing for any occasion.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of vanilla pastry cream and buttery crust creates a delightful taste experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Tarte aux Fraises, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Offset spatula
• Tart pan

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Helps achieve the perfect texture for the pastry cream without much effort.
• Saucepan: Essential for cooking the milk mixture evenly to develop rich flavors.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are well combined, preventing lumps in your cream.
• Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading the pastry cream smoothly across the tart crust.

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 sablée tart crust (or pie crust)
• 1 pint strawberries
• 2 tablespoons strawberry or apricot jam

How to Make Tarte aux Fraises

Step 1: Make 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: Scrape Vanilla Seeds

Open the bean and press flat with your knife, scraping the vanilla bean seeds onto your knife edge.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Vanilla

Add to 3 tablespoons sugar, and use your fingers to break up the seeds and combine with the sugar.

Step 4: Heat Milk Mixture

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

Step 5: Prepare Egg Yolks

Meanwhile, put egg yolks in a stand mixer with the whisk attachment and set to medium speed. Slowly add 3 tablespoons sugar, then whip together on high speed. Scrape down the mixer bowl as needed.

Step 6: Achieve Ribbon Stage

When egg mixture gets to ribbon stage and lightens (about 3-4 minutes), stop whipping.

Step 7: Mix Cornstarch with Milk

Meanwhile, whisk cornstarch into the remaining 1/3 cup of milk until smooth. Set aside.

Step 8: Combine Mixtures

When milk in the saucepan has just come to a low boil (watch carefully), add the cold milk mixture to the stand mixer and combine on low. Once it is well combined, slowly pour in the hot milk with mixer on low.

Step 9: Thicken Mixture

As soon as it is incorporated, turn off mixer and pour the entire mixture back into your saucepan. Over low heat, stir with a whisk constantly until mixture comes to a boil again and starts to thicken (about 2 minutes).

Step 10: Ensure Smooth Consistency

Then whisk for another 2 minutes over low heat to make sure any raw taste from cornstarch is gone. Whisk aggressively if it looks like the mixture isn’t coming together smoothly.

Step 11: Add Butter

Whisk in butter, then turn off heat. Remove vanilla bean. Scrape pastry cream into a bowl and press plastic wrap directly over top.

Step 12: Chill Pastry Cream

Let cool, then put in refrigerator to chill until cold.

Step 13: Assemble Tart

Now you can start assembling the tart. Remove outer ring from tart pan and put pâte sucrée tart shell on serving dish or cake stand.

Step 14: Smooth Pastry Cream

Whisk pastry cream in a bowl until it is smooth with no lumps. Spread evenly over base of tart crust using an offset spatula.

Step 15: Prepare Strawberries

Cut off top of each strawberry and slice each into 3 or 4 thin vertical slices. Begin laying them on top of pastry cream, overlapping them starting from outside circle moving inward.

Step 16: Glaze Strawberries

When tart is completely covered with strawberry slices, combine 2 tablespoons strawberry or apricot jam with one tablespoon water in a small bowl. Microwave for about 10 seconds until jam is melted and smooth.

Step 17: Brush Jam Over Strawberries

Use a pastry brush to brush jam over top of strawberry slices, making them shiny. Chill until ready to serve.

How to Serve Tarte aux Fraises

Serving Tarte aux Fraises is a delightful experience, especially when you pair it with the right accompaniments. This classic French dessert can be enjoyed on its own or with various complements that enhance its flavors.

Pairing with Beverages

• Sparkling Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling wine complements the sweetness of the strawberries beautifully.
• Herbal Tea: A fragrant herbal tea such as chamomile can provide a soothing contrast to the tart’s rich creaminess.
• Coffee: A cup of strong espresso balances the sweetness and offers a delightful end to your meal.

Garnishing Options

• Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves not only add color but also a refreshing taste that pairs well with strawberries.
• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances presentation and adds just a touch of sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream creates a luxurious texture that complements the dessert perfectly.

Presentation Ideas

• Cake Stand: Present your Tarte aux Fraises on a beautiful cake stand for an elegant display.
• Plates with Sauces: Drizzle some strawberry sauce around the plate for an artistic touch when serving individual slices.

How to Perfect Tarte aux Fraises

Creating the perfect Tarte aux Fraises requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your tart-making skills.

• Bold ingredients matter: Use fresh, high-quality strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color in your tart.
• Bold crust technique: Ensure your pâte sucrée is baked until golden brown for a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
• Bold pastry cream cooling: Let your pastry cream cool completely before assembling to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
• Bold layering strategy: Layer your strawberry slices carefully, overlapping them for an appealing presentation and even distribution of flavor.
• Bold jam finish: Brush your jam glaze evenly over the strawberries to give them a gorgeous shine and added sweetness.

Best Side Dishes for Tarte aux Fraises

While Tarte aux Fraises is delicious on its own, pairing it with side dishes can create a more rounded dining experience. Here are some side dish ideas that complement this French classic.

1. Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast that enhances the fruity flavors of the tart.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can offer additional textures and flavors, making for a vibrant side.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses balances the sweetness of the tart while adding richness to the meal.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Dipping leftover fruits or pieces of tart into chocolate fondue creates an indulgent treat.
5. Savory Crostini: Lightly toasted crostini topped with goat cheese and herbs can provide a savory counterpoint to sweet desserts.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries offers a healthy yet delicious option that pairs well with Tarte aux Fraises.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Tarte aux Fraises can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Not using fresh strawberries – Fresh strawberries are key to a delicious tart. Avoid using frozen or overripe berries that can alter the flavor and texture.
• Skipping the chilling step – The pastry cream needs time to cool and set properly. Skipping this step can result in a runny filling that won’t hold its shape.
• Overbaking the crust – A perfectly baked tart crust should be golden but not too dark. Keep an eye on it to avoid dryness or burning.
• Ignoring measurements – Baking is a science, so precise measurements are crucial. Use proper measuring tools to ensure your ingredients are accurate.
• Not letting the tart rest – After assembling, let the tart chill before serving. This allows flavors to meld and makes slicing easier.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Tarte aux Fraises will keep well for up to 2 days.

Freezing Tarte aux Fraises

• It’s best to freeze only the unfilled crust; filled tarts may not retain their texture.
• Wrap the cooled crust tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tarte aux Fraises

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tart on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be cautious, as microwaving can make it soggy.
• Stovetop – Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tarte aux Fraises?

Tarte aux Fraises is a classic French dessert featuring a cookie crust filled with vanilla pastry cream and topped with fresh strawberries.

Can I use other fruits for my Tarte aux Fraises?

Yes! While strawberries are traditional, you can customize your tart with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for varied flavors.

How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, ensure your crust is fully baked before adding the pastry cream. You can also brush the crust with melted chocolate before filling it.

What’s the best way to slice Tarte aux Fraises?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water to make clean cuts without squishing the strawberries or pastry cream.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour in your tart crust recipe for a delicious gluten-free version of Tarte aux Fraises.

Final Thoughts

Tarte aux Fraises is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. Its perfect balance of creamy pastry and fresh fruit makes it an ideal dessert for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or toppings to personalize this classic French treat! Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try and impress your friends and family with your baking skills!