Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart

Name: Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet); 1/2 cup strawberry jam; 1/4 cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Highlighted under: Delicious Desserts Made Simple

I often find that the best desserts come from a blend of my favorite flavors. That’s exactly what inspired this Strawberry & Chocolate Jam Tart. The combination of sweet strawberries with rich chocolate creates a perfect balance that is truly delightful. As I prepared this tart, I realized how simple ingredients like fresh fruit and quality chocolate can transform into a stunning dessert. Trust me, this twist on a classic will become a regular in your kitchen, especially for those special occasions or a sweet treat after dinner.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:42:34.996Z

When I first decided to make a jam tart, I wanted to elevate the classic version. So I experimented with incorporating chocolate, resulting in an incredible flavor combination. I learned that using quality chocolate really makes a difference—opt for dark chocolate for a richer taste. It balances perfectly with the sweetness of the strawberries.

The first time I served this tart to friends, the looks on their faces were priceless. Everyone was surprised and impressed by the layers of flavor and the flaky crust. It’s a fantastic way to impress guests, and they’ll never guess how simple it is to make!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
Decadent yet surprisingly easy to make
Great for any occasion, whether a dinner party or a cozy night in

      

Understanding the Tart Crust

The tart crust is a foundational element in this recipe, providing a crispy contrast to the rich filling. Using chilled butter is vital; it helps create a flaky texture. Make sure to handle the dough gently to avoid overworking it, which could lead to a tough crust. If you notice your crust shrinking while baking, that might be due to not resting it long enough in the fridge. I recommend an additional 10 minutes if you encounter this issue.

When mixing the dry ingredients, ensure they are well-combined before adding the butter. This prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution of flavor. If you prefer a nutty flavor, swapping a quarter of the all-purpose flour with finely ground almonds can enhance the taste profile without overpowering the strawberries and chocolate.

Perfecting the Filling

The balance between the strawberry jam and chocolate filling is essential for the overall taste of the tart. When melting the chocolate, do so over low heat to prevent it from seizing. If you accidentally burn it, adding a teaspoon of vegetable oil can sometimes rescue it. For a luscious texture, allowing the melted chocolate to cool slightly before combining it with the cream will yield a smoother mixture.

Choosing the right strawberries is also crucial—opt for ripe, sweet berries for optimal flavor. If fresh strawberries are out of season, frozen strawberries can be used; just ensure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the tart soggy.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

For an elegant presentation, consider pairing your tart with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess complements the chocolate and strawberry beautifully. If you're serving for a special occasion, garnishing with mint leaves can add a refreshing pop of color and flavor. I love to create a more dramatic look by arranging the strawberries in a fan shape on top.

After making the tart, if you have leftovers, keep them tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It can last for up to three days. For make-ahead options, you can prepare the crust and filling separately a day in advance and assemble just before serving to retain the best texture.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp salt

For the Filling

1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
1/2 cup strawberry jam
1/4 cup heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Steps

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a medium bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg and vanilla extract.

Press the mixture into a 9-inch tart pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Once chilled, bake the crust in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and let it cool completely.

Prepare the Filling

In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir until the chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Tart

Spread the strawberry jam evenly over the cooled tart shell. Pour the melted chocolate mixture on top, spreading it to cover the jam.

Add Strawberries

Decorate the top with sliced strawberries, arranging them neatly or in a pattern of your choice. Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Serve and Enjoy

Before serving, dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and serve chilled, savoring each bite of this delightful tart.

Pro Tips

For an extra flair, consider adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the chocolate filling for a refreshing citrus note. If strawberries are out of season, raspberries or blueberries also work beautifully in this tart.

Tart Crust Tips

If you live in a warm climate, I recommend chilling your mixing bowl and utensils before making the tart crust. This extra step will help ensure that your butter remains cold while mixing, leading to a flakier crust. When pressing the dough into the tart pan, use your fingers to gently mold it into the edges, ensuring even thickness throughout.

To blind bake the crust effectively, consider using pie weights or dried beans lined with parchment paper. This prevents air bubbles from forming during the baking process. Check at the 20-minute mark; if the edges are starting to brown but the center is still light, it's time to remove it from the oven.

Flavor Enhancements

Experimenting with flavor variations can elevate your tart. Adding a splash of almond extract to the strawberry jam layer brings a lovely depth of flavor. If you enjoy a hint of citrus, a teaspoon of lemon zest can cut through the sweetness, enhancing the overall profile. I often play with extract flavors to find new combinations that surprise guests.

If dark chocolate isn’t your preference, semi-sweet or even white chocolate can be used. Just keep in mind that these alternatives will alter the flavor balance, so adjusting the amount of strawberry jam might be necessary. Start with a 1/2 cup and taste before adding more.

Making it Your Own

This strawberry and chocolate jam tart welcomes creativity. Why not experiment with different kinds of fruit? Raspberries, blueberries, or even blackberries can be delightful substitutes, each bringing their unique sweetness and tartness. In the case of using blueberries, a quick mash with a fork will enhance their flavor before spreading them on the crust.

For a more decadent touch, consider adding a layer of hazelnut spread beneath the chocolate or creating a meringue topping. Simply whip egg whites until stiff peaks form and bake until lightly golden. This adds both texture and sophistication, turning a simple dessert into a showstopper.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to remove excess moisture before using.

→ How do I store the tart?

Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's best enjoyed fresh!

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart crust a day in advance and leave it in the fridge until you're ready to fill it.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

This recipe is not vegan due to the use of butter and egg in the crust. However, you can substitute with vegan butter and a flax egg for a vegan version.