Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream

Name: Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped

Highlighted under: Dessert Recipes

I absolutely adore making tarts, and this Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream is one of my favorites. The combination of fresh strawberries and aromatic basil creates a delightful harmony of flavors. Every bite offers a burst of sweetness from the strawberries, balanced perfectly with the fragrant herbal notes. I often prepare this tart for gatherings or special occasions because it not only looks stunning but tastes incredible too. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make, which makes it a win-win in my book!

Created by

Ninas

Last updated on 2026-02-08T14:33:27.599Z

When I first experimented with this Strawberry Basil Tart, I was blown away by how beautifully the flavors meld together. The fresh basil elevates the sweetness of the strawberries, giving it an unexpected twist that’s utterly refreshing. I recommend using ripe strawberries for the best flavor, and don't skimp on the basil; it truly brings the tart to life!

One trick I learned is to let the tart chill for at least an hour before serving. This allows the filling to set properly and enhances the flavor profile. Your friends and family will be amazed at how gourmet this simple recipe turns out. It’s perfect for summer gatherings, and it always disappears quickly!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The unexpected combination of sweet strawberries and fresh basil is a flavor revelation.
Creamy tart filling that pairs beautifully with the crispy crust.
Visually stunning, making it the centerpiece of any dessert table.

      

Understanding the Tart Crust

The tart crust is the foundation of this recipe, providing both texture and flavor contrasts to the sweet filling. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content, ensuring the sweetness of the tart isn't overshadowed. When mixing the butter with the flour and powdered sugar, aim for a crumbly consistency. This indicates that the fat is properly incorporated, which will result in a flaky texture after baking. Remember not to over-knead the dough to avoid developing gluten, which can lead to a tough crust.

Chilling the crust before baking is a crucial step that prevents it from shrinking during the cooking process. When you take the crust out of the refrigerator, it should feel firm to the touch. After baking at 350°F (175°C), look for a light golden color; if it remains pale, give it an extra few minutes, but be careful not to over-bake, as this can lead to a dry texture. Properly cooled, the crust will provide a perfect base to hold the luscious filling.

Crafting the Cream Filling

The creamy filling in this tart is where the magic happens, offering a rich contrast to the tangy-sweet strawberries. Using heavy cream is essential because it whips into soft peaks, delivering a velvety mouthfeel. Ensure your bowl and whisk are cold before whipping the cream; this helps achieve stable peaks. If the peaks are too stiff or grainy, it indicates over-whipping, which can lead to a texture similar to butter. If that happens, gently fold in a bit more unwhipped cream to restore that smooth consistency.

Incorporating fresh basil adds a unique twist, infusing the cream with herbal notes that beautifully complement the strawberries. If you're feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with other herbs like mint or even citrus zest for a different flavor profile. It’s important to chop the basil finely to ensure even distribution throughout the cream, as larger pieces might disrupt the textural harmony. Letting the cream sit for a few minutes after mixing will allow the flavors to meld beautifully before assembling the tart.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

For the Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk

For the Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped

Mix all the ingredients well before moving on to the next steps.

Instructions

Follow these instructions to create your tart:

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, softened butter, powdered sugar, and salt. Mix until crumbly, then add the egg yolk. Knead gently until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Make the Filling

In a bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and chopped basil until soft peaks form.

Assemble the Tart

Spread the cream filling over the cooled tart crust and layer the sliced strawberries on top. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, drizzle a balsamic reduction over the strawberries before serving. It complements the tartness beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Basil Tart is not just a visual delight; its airy texture and complex flavors make it a standout dessert for any occasion. When serving, I recommend slicing the tart just before guests arrive to maintain the integrity of the cream and strawberries. You can accompany the tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a fresh basil sprig for added flair. The sweet and herbal notes create an inviting combination that enhances the overall experience, setting it apart from standard fruit desserts.

If you want to elevate the experience even further, consider pairing the tart with a sweet dessert wine or a refreshing lemonade. The acidity in these drinks complements the sweetness of the strawberries and the richness of the cream. For a more casual event, serving with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry sorbet adds a delightful contrast, making every bite more refreshing.

Storing and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this tart ahead of time, consider making the crust and filling separately. The baked tart shell can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the freezer for a month. Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly to avoid moisture buildup. For the best taste, prepare the cream filling and garnish with strawberries no more than 4 hours before serving to maintain freshness and flavor.

If there are leftovers, store the tart in the refrigerator. However, keep in mind that the strawberries might weep and soften over time, affecting the texture. It’s best to consume the tart within 24 hours for optimal freshness. If you notice excess moisture, you can simply use a paper towel to dab the tart lightly, absorbing any liquid.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tart crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart crust a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if necessary. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.

→ How long will the tart last in the fridge?

The tart is best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored in the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for basil?

If you're not a fan of basil, you can try using fresh mint as a refreshing alternative.