Whipped Strawberry Tart: A Light, Dreamy Dessert Treat

 

As spring unfolds and nature bursts into a palette of vibrant colors, there’s nothing quite like indulging in a slice of Whipped Strawberry Tart to capture that essence. The first time I made this delightful treat, my kitchen transformed into a haven of sweet strawberry aromas mingling with a hint of buttery crust. This tart is easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for both casual get-togethers and more intimate gatherings.

Imagine a crispy, golden crust cradling an airy, whipped filling that seems to float with the flavor of fresh strawberries. Each bite transports you to a sunlit picnic, where the world outside fades away, and all that matters is the joyful experience of shared laughter and delicious treats. Whether using fresh berries from your local farmer’s market or a convenient bag of frozen strawberries, this recipe is versatile enough to ensure everyone can enjoy its refreshing taste. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s create something that will not only please your palate but also bring a touch of spring to your table!

this Recipe

Why will you love this Whipped Strawberry Tart?

Light and Refreshing: This dessert embodies the spirit of spring with its delightful strawberry flavor that dances on your palate.
Simple to Make: Even beginners can master this easy recipe without fuss, making it the perfect project for a cheerful day!
Versatile Options: Whether you choose fresh or frozen strawberries, the tart remains a crowd-pleaser and can adapt to your pantry items.
Visually Stunning: With its vibrant pink filling and golden crust, this tart impresses at any gathering, turning heads and tempting taste buds.
Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for spring festivities, it adds a festive charm that uplifts any table setting.

Whipped Strawberry Tart Ingredients

For the Crust

• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and creates a tender crust; consider using vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
• Sugar – Sweetens the crust and filling; you can substitute with coconut sugar for a less processed alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and depth of flavor; pure vanilla is preferable to imitation.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together in the crust; an egg replacer can be used for a vegan alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides the structure of the crust; gluten-free flour can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor; use sea salt for a more complex taste.

For the Filling

• Fresh Strawberries – The main flavor contributor; frozen strawberries work in a pinch but may alter the texture.
• Water or Rosé – Adds liquid to the strawberry puree; choose rosé for added flavor complexity.
• Sugar (for Filling) – Sweetens the filling mixture; adjust according to your sweetness preference.
• Unflavored Gelatin – Helps to set the filling; agar-agar can be a vegetarian substitute.
• Cornstarch – Thickens the filling mixture; can be replaced with arrowroot powder.
• Cream Cheese – Contributes to the rich creaminess of the filling; use a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
• Heavy Cream – Adds fluffiness and volume to the filling; coconut cream can substitute for a dairy-free option.

How to Make Whipped Strawberry Tart

1. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well. Gradually incorporate the flour and salt until a soft dough forms. Chill for 1-2 hours to firm up.

2. Roll and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to a ¼” thickness. Gently transfer the dough to a tart pan, pressing it into place. Chill again for 30-60 minutes, then bake with pie weights for 20 minutes until lightly golden.

3. Make the Filling: Blend fresh strawberries with water or rosé until smooth. In a saucepan, heat this puree with sugar and unflavored gelatin until dissolved. Stir in a cornstarch mixture and cook until thickened. Let it cool completely.

4. Combine Whipped Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the heavy cream while continuing to whip until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the cooled strawberry mixture until well combined.

5. Assemble Tart: Spoon half of the strawberry mixture into the cooled tart shell, leveling it out. Chill for at least an hour before topping with the whipped filling. Refrigerate until firm, then serve and enjoy the delightful layers!

Optional: Garnish with fresh strawberry slices on top for an extra fruity touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for the Best Whipped Strawberry Tart

• Chill the Crust: Ensure the tart shell is fully chilled before baking. This helps maintain its shape and prevents shrinking while baking.

• Monitor Cooling Time: Don’t rush the cooling process for the filling. If it’s too warm, it can cause the whipped cream to melt, compromising the texture.

• Berry Sweetness: Taste your strawberries before blending; adjust sugar in the filling accordingly. Using fully ripe strawberries enhances the flavor of your Whipped Strawberry Tart.

• Sharp Knife for Slicing: Use a sharp knife to cut neat slices for presentation. A bit of hot water can help clean the knife between cuts if needed.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the tart a day in advance and add toppings just before serving for maximum freshness and flavor.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap in other berries like raspberries or blueberries, keeping the balance of flavors intact while creating your unique twist on the Whipped Strawberry Tart.

Whipped Strawberry Tart Variations

Customize your tart and let your creativity shine with these delightful options!

• Mixed Berries: Substitute raspberries or blueberries for an exciting twist on flavor and color. Each berry brings its own sweet notes, creating a beautiful medley of taste.

• Vegan Delight: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream for a totally vegan-friendly treat. It’s just as luscious and satisfies dairy-free cravings beautifully.

• Nutty Crust: Incorporate almond flour into your crust for a nutty, gluten-free alternative. This adds a lovely depth of flavor while keeping the texture crispy and delightful.

• Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the filling for a bright, zesty kick. The citrus will elevate the strawberry flavor, making each bite even more refreshing.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the tart before serving for a touch of indulgence. The rich chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the fresh strawberries.

• Herbal Infusion: Infuse the strawberry mixture with fresh mint or basil for a unique aromatic twist. The herbal notes complement the sweetness and add an unexpected flavor layer.

• Spiced Variation: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the whipped filling for a warm spice undertone. This creates a cozy, comforting touch that’s perfect for cooler spring evenings.

• Chilled Yogurt Topping: Swap out heavy cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy topping. It balances the sweetness of the strawberries and adds a lovely creaminess.

How to Store and Freeze Whipped Strawberry Tart

• Fridge: Store leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

• Freezer: If you have extra tart, freeze it unassembled for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

• Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, and serve chilled to enjoy the light, refreshing flavor of your Whipped Strawberry Tart.

What to Serve with Whipped Strawberry Tart?

Indulging in a slice of this tart creates a delightful moment ripe for pairing with other dishes that enhance its light, fruity flavors.

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the tart’s airy filling, making each bite more decadent.
• Fresh Mint Salad: A refreshing salad with mint, cucumber, and a light lemon vinaigrette adds a crisp, herbal note that brightens the meal.
• Sparkling Rosé: The effervescence of sparkling rosé mirrors the tart’s summery vibe, making it the perfect drink to uplift your gathering.
• Lemon Sorbet: This tangy sorbet not only cleanses the palate but also elevates the strawberry flavor, creating a harmonious combination on your taste buds.
• Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream amplifies the tart’s creamy essence, adding an extra layer of sweetness without overpowering it.
• Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: For a touch of sophistication, adding these sweet treats complements the whipped strawberry flavor beautifully.
• Herbed Quinoa Salad: The nutty flavor of quinoa, tossed with herbs and lemon, creates a hearty yet light side that balances the sweet tart.
• Lemonade Spritzer: This refreshing drink, made with lemonade and sparkling water, offers a zesty, bubbly contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
• Fruit Platter: A colorful selection of seasonal fruits not only adds a pop of freshness but also creates a beautiful presentation alongside the tart.
• Cheese Board: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, adds a savory element that perfectly balances the tart’s sweetness, making it a sophisticated pairing.

Make Ahead Options

These Whipped Strawberry Tart components are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can prepare the tart crust up to 24 hours ahead by storing it tightly wrapped in the fridge after chilling. For the filling, make the strawberry puree, mix in gelatin, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; this ensures the flavors marry beautifully while maintaining a fresh taste. On the day you plan to serve, whip the cream cheese and cream, fold in the cooled strawberry mixture, and assemble the tart for a delightful finish. This approach guarantees a stunning dessert that tastes just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends!

Whipped Strawberry Tart Recipe FAQs

What kind of strawberries should I use for the Whipped Strawberry Tart?
Absolutely! Fresh strawberries are ideal for this recipe, as their natural sweetness and juiciness enhance the flavor. Choose strawberries that are bright red and firm with no dark spots. However, if fresh strawberries are unavailable, you can use frozen strawberries. Just keep in mind that they may change the texture slightly, so thaw and drain them well before blending.

How should I store leftover Whipped Strawberry Tart?
Very important! Store your leftover tart in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Keeping it covered helps maintain its lovely whipped filling and buttery crust.

Can I freeze the Whipped Strawberry Tart?
Yes, you can! To freeze, I recommend unassembled tart components. Wrap the tart shell tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and then add the filling and toppings.

What if my filling doesn’t set properly?
No worries at all! If your filling doesn’t set as expected, it may be due to the gelatin or cornstarch not being heated properly. To troubleshoot, return the filling to the stovetop. Reheat it gently while stirring to dissolve and then continue cooking until it thickens. Make sure to let it cool completely before folding in the whipped cream mixture to achieve that fluffy texture.

Is this Whipped Strawberry Tart suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can make this tart friendlier for various dietary needs. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan version, use vegan butter, an egg replacer, dairy-free cream cheese, and coconut cream. Always check for allergies, especially with gelatin, which can be replaced by agar-agar for vegetarians.

How long does the crust need to chill before baking?
Great question! It’s essential to chill the crust for at least 1-2 hours after making the dough. This helps it to firm up, preventing shrinkage during baking. If you’re in a hurry, at least try to chill it for 30-60 minutes for better results.