Description
This delightful Strawberry Tart features a buttery, golden crust filled with a creamy, tangy lemon-infused cream cheese filling, topped with fresh sliced strawberries glazed with a sweet preserve. Perfectly balanced in sweetness and texture, this dessert is elegant yet simple, ideal for special occasions or a refreshing summer treat.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 10 tablespoons butter, melted
Filling
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 (8 oz.) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 1/2 pounds strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons strawberry or raspberry preserves
- 2 teaspoons water (for glazing)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and kosher salt. Add the melted butter and stir until a dough forms. Press the dough evenly into a 10 or 11-inch tart pan with a removable bottom, ensuring the surface is smooth. Use a fork to prick the dough all over to prevent bubbling. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust turns a beautiful golden color. Remove from oven and allow it to cool completely.
- Make the filling: While the crust cools, use a hand mixer to beat the heavy cream in a large bowl until stiff peaks form, which should take about 7 minutes. In a separate large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture and mix until combined. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until evenly incorporated. Spoon this filling into the cooled tart crust and smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Arrange the strawberries: Starting from the outer edge of the tart, carefully arrange the sliced strawberries in concentric circles until the entire surface is covered.
- Glaze and chill: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the strawberry or raspberry preserves with 2 teaspoons of water. Heat in the microwave for about 30 seconds until warmed and easily spreadable. Using a pastry brush, gently brush the glaze over the strawberries to give them a shiny finish. Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours to allow it to set and become well chilled before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use ripe, fresh strawberries for the topping.
- You can substitute raspberry preserves if strawberry preserves are unavailable.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Press the crust dough evenly to avoid uneven baking.
- This tart is best served chilled but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
