There is something truly magical about a Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart that brings together the creamy smoothness of rich custard and the vibrant freshness of strawberries nestled perfectly in a buttery, flaky crust. This dessert is a celebration of textures and flavors that feels both elegant and inviting, making it an absolute favorite for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, the harmony of the vanilla-infused custard and juicy strawberries is simply irresistible.

Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in balancing the taste, texture, and appearance of your Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart. From the crisp tart crust to the luscious custard and fresh fruit topping, every component is essential to crafting this delightful dessert.

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky crust that holds everything together beautifully.
1/4 cup powdered sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and helps ensure a delicate texture in the pastry.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste of the crust.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Crucial for a rich, buttery crust with a perfect crumbly texture.
1 egg yolk: Binds the dough while adding richness and helping with color.
2–3 tablespoons ice water: Brings the dough together without overheating the butter, maintaining flakiness.
1 1/4 cups whole milk: Creates a creamy base for the smooth and luxurious custard.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and velvety texture to the custard filling.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just right without overpowering the vanilla flavor.
1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with that unmistakable, fragrant vanilla aroma.
4 egg yolks: Provide body and thickness to the custard, giving it that perfect custardy consistency.
1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the custard evenly without curdling.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Added at the end of cooking to enrich and smooth the custard.
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: The star topping, fresh and vibrant, adding color and a burst of sweetness.
1 tablespoon apricot jam (for glazing): Provides a shiny finish and seals in freshness on the strawberries.
Fresh mint leaves (optional): A fragrant and fresh garnish that brings brightness to the presentation.

How to Make Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining your flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Incorporate the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces remaining. This ensures your crust will be flaky and tender. Next, add the egg yolk and just enough ice water to bring the dough together without overworking it. Wrap it up and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes – this chilling step is key for easy rolling and a crust that holds its shape beautifully.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Tart Shell

Once your dough has chilled, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit your tart pan. Fit the dough in and prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling. Line it with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans to keep the crust from puffing up. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until golden and crisp. Let your crust cool completely before moving on to the next step – a warm filling on a hot crust is no friend of a smooth custard!

Step 3: Make the Vanilla Custard

In a saucepan, combine the milk, cream, and sugar, then split your vanilla bean to scrape out those fragrant seeds, adding both seeds and pod to the mixture for maximum flavor; if using vanilla extract, hold off just a bit. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer to extract every ounce of vanilla goodness. Meanwhile, whisk the egg yolks and cornstarch until smooth. Gradually temper the yolks by pouring in the hot milk mixture while whisking constantly to avoid curdling. Return the entire mixture to the stove and gently cook over medium heat, whisking continuously until thickened into a luscious custard. Remove from the heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract if you’re using it instead of a bean, then allow the custard to cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart

Pour the slightly cooled custard into your fully cooled tart shell, smoothing it evenly. Next comes the fun part: arranging your fresh sliced strawberries over the custard. Create any pattern you like – a circular fan or neat rows both look stunning. Finally, gently brush the apricot jam over the strawberries to give them a beautiful, glossy finish. Chill the tart for at least one hour before serving, allowing the custard to set and the flavors to meld beautifully.

How to Serve Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart

Garnishes

Enhance the visual appeal and flavor with a few bright, fresh mint leaves sprinkled lightly over the top. They add a pop of color and a subtle hint of herbal freshness that pairs wonderfully with the sweet strawberries and creamy custard.

Side Dishes

This tart is a showstopper on its own, but if you want to create a full dessert experience, serve it alongside a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess complements the tart’s textures and adds an indulgent touch to each bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve individual mini tartlets made from this recipe or cut the larger tart into perfect squares and plate with a drizzle of strawberry sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. You can also add edible flowers for an extra special touch of elegance.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart covered in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container or cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent the custard from drying out. It tastes best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this tart due to the delicate custard and fresh strawberries, which can separate or become watery upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it fresh or keep refrigerated.

Reheating

Since this is a chilled custard tart, avoid reheating. Bring to room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving if desired, but it is best enjoyed cold and refreshing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Fresh strawberries are best for this tart to maintain firmness and flavor. Frozen strawberries tend to release water when thawed, which can make the custard watery and affect the overall texture.

What can I use if I don’t have a vanilla bean?

A teaspoon of vanilla extract is a great substitute. Add it at the end of cooking to preserve the vibrant vanilla flavor without the beans.

How do I prevent the tart crust from getting soggy?

Blind baking the crust and allowing it to cool completely before adding the custard ensures it stays crisp. Additionally, make sure the custard is slightly cooled before pouring it in.

Can I make the crust gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just note that the texture may vary slightly depending on the blend used.

Is it okay to prepare the tart a day ahead?

Absolutely! Preparing the tart a day ahead allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just be sure to store it covered in the fridge and add fresh garnishes like mint leaves just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Making a Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart is a rewarding experience that turns simple ingredients into a stunning, delicious dessert perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a bake-at-home enthusiast or looking to impress guests with minimal fuss, this tart promises effortless elegance with each bite. Give it a try—you’re going to love how its luscious custard and fresh strawberries come together in every slice.