Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
Highlighted under: Treats & Confections
I absolutely adore making my Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart, especially when fresh strawberries are in season. The combination of rich chocolate and tart strawberry jam creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet light. It’s surprisingly easy to assemble, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. I love how the fragrant aroma fills my kitchen, and the smiles it brings to my friends and family are simply priceless. This tart is truly a celebration of flavors that I can't get enough of!
When I first attempted to make this tart, I was pleasantly surprised by how harmonious the flavors turned out. I simmered fresh strawberries with sugar to create a vibrant jam, which paired beautifully with the decadent chocolate ganache. Finding the right balance between sweetness and tartness was key, and I recommend tasting the strawberry mix before pouring it into the tart. The balance transforms this dessert from good to absolutely delightful!
As the tart bakes, I enjoy preparing a whipped cream topping to complement the chocolate and strawberry layers. The combination is heavenly, and I often find myself sneaking bites before it’s even served. A little sprinkle of sea salt on top brings out the flavors even more, so don't skip that detail—it’s a game changer!
Why You'll Love This Tart
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry jam
- Flaky tart crust that perfectly complements the filling
- Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence
The Importance of Quality Ingredients
When making the Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart, the quality of your ingredients can significantly impact the final result. Fresh, ripe strawberries are crucial for achieving a vibrant flavor in the jam. Look for berries that are bright red and fragrant; they should yield slightly when pressed. Pairing these strawberries with a premium dark chocolate will elevate the ganache. I recommend using chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or higher for a rich, balanced flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
Powdered sugar in the tart crust is essential for a tender and flaky texture. It dissolves easily, preventing the crust from becoming gritty. Cold butter should be used as it helps to create that desirable flaky characteristic in pastry. Make sure to cube it and keep it cold until mixing—this is key! If you don’t have unsalted butter, you can reduce the added salt slightly to maintain the flavor balance.
Chilling and Setting
Allowing the tart to chill after assembly is crucial for setting the layers properly. This time in the refrigerator ensures the chocolate ganache firms up, making it easier to slice without compromising the integrity of the tart. A minimum of 30 minutes is necessary, but if you can let it chill for up to 2 hours, the flavors will meld beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, setting the tart in the freezer for about 15 minutes could help, but just be cautious not to freeze it completely.
If you find the ganache too runny after pouring, it may not have been allowed to cool long enough after heating the cream. Ensure that the ganache cools slightly before you pour it over the jam, as a hot ganache can melt the jam layer, causing it to mix. It should be poured when it reaches a smooth, pourable state but still holds its shape.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Topping
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries for decoration
- A sprinkle of sea salt
Instructions
Instructions
Make the Tart Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms.
Pre-bake the Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the chilled tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden. Allow it to cool.
Prepare the Strawberry Jam
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Make the Chocolate Ganache
Place the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Assemble the Tart
Spread the cooled strawberry jam evenly over the tart crust. Pour the chocolate ganache on top of the jam, smoothing it out. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Serve and Enjoy
Slice the tart and top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. A sprinkle of sea salt will enhance the flavors beautifully. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra crisp crust, consider blind baking the crust longer or using a food processor to make the crust quickly. Using quality dark chocolate will elevate the flavor of the ganache significantly.
Serving Suggestions
Serving the Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart with a dollop of whipped cream adds a delightful creaminess that complements the tartness of the jam. For an extra touch, you can infuse the whipped cream with vanilla extract or even a bit of almond extract for a unique twist. Sprinkle some finely grated chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder over the whipped cream just before serving for added presentation.
Fresh strawberries cut in halves and arranged around the tart not only enhance the visual appeal but also invite an extra burst of flavor. You can also serve individual slices on plates garnished with mint leaves for a refreshing contrast.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best served chilled, but if you prefer it at room temperature, let it sit out for about 15-20 minutes before serving. Always keep the tart covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
For long-term storage, consider freezing the tart before adding the ganache. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then add the ganache before serving. This method helps maintain the freshness of the pastry and jam layers.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen strawberries for the jam?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries; just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
→ How long will the tart keep?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
→ Can I substitute the chocolate?
Yes, you can use milk chocolate or white chocolate, but it will change the flavor profile.
→ Is it possible to make the tart crust gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
I absolutely adore making my Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart, especially when fresh strawberries are in season. The combination of rich chocolate and tart strawberry jam creates a dessert that feels indulgent yet light. It’s surprisingly easy to assemble, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or a cozy night in. I love how the fragrant aroma fills my kitchen, and the smiles it brings to my friends and family are simply priceless. This tart is truly a celebration of flavors that I can't get enough of!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Treats & Confections
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tart Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg yolk
- 2-3 tablespoons cold water
For the Filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For Topping
- Whipped cream
- Fresh strawberries for decoration
- A sprinkle of sea salt
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 15 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the chilled tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until golden. Allow it to cool.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until the strawberries release their juices and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
Place the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl. In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Spread the cooled strawberry jam evenly over the tart crust. Pour the chocolate ganache on top of the jam, smoothing it out. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Slice the tart and top with whipped cream and fresh strawberries. A sprinkle of sea salt will enhance the flavors beautifully. Enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra crisp crust, consider blind baking the crust longer or using a food processor to make the crust quickly. Using quality dark chocolate will elevate the flavor of the ganache significantly.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 20g
- Protein: 4g