Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream

Name: Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, finely chopped; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Highlighted under: Traditional Food

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream for special occasions. The combination of fresh strawberries and fragrant basil creates a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress. The creamy filling adds a delightful richness that balances perfectly with the tartness of the berries. I enjoy serving it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It's a refreshing dessert that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering, and the vibrant colors make it just as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.

Created by

The Chefvictorfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-02-08T15:46:28.127Z

When I first experimented with this tart, I was blown away by how well strawberries and basil paired together. The fresh, sweet strawberries complement the aromatic, slightly peppery basil in such a delightful way. I decided to make a creamy filling to smooth out the flavor and add a luxurious texture. The result? A light but indulgent dessert that's refreshing on warm days.

One tip I can share is to let the tart chill for a bit after assembling it. This allows the flavors to blend and the filling to firm up, making each slice beautifully intact. Trust me, serving it chilled makes the taste even more vibrant and enjoyable!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Unique flavor combination of strawberry and basil
Lush and creamy filling that surprises the palate
Visually stunning presentation for any occasion

Choosing the Right Strawberries

When selecting strawberries for your tart, opt for ripe, fragrant berries with a vibrant red hue. Smaller, organic strawberries often pack more flavor than larger, commercially grown varieties. Look for berries that are firm and free from blemishes or soft spots. If you can, visit a local farmer's market; seasonal, freshly picked strawberries enhance the tart’s flavor and texture remarkably. I always find that the fresher the strawberries, the more vibrant the dessert will be.

Before slicing your strawberries, give them a gentle rinse under cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the cream filling. Slicing the strawberries just before assembly will maintain their freshness and prevent them from becoming soggy. If you're prepping ahead, hulling the strawberries the day before and storing them in an airtight container in the fridge helps save time while ensuring the berries stay crisp.

Perfecting the Tart Crust

Creating a flaky tart crust is all about handling the dough with care. When cutting in the butter, aim for a texture resembling coarse crumbs. Over-mixing can lead to a tough crust. A good visual cue is to stop mixing as soon as you see pea-sized bits of butter throughout the flour mixture. Remember, the chilled butter helps the crust achieve its flaky quality. If you're short on time, you can substitute the butter with chilled coconut oil, but note that it may alter the flavor slightly.

After pressing the dough into the tart pan, chilling it is essential. This helps the crust maintain its shape during baking and prevents unwanted shrinkage. If you notice any cracks or gaps in the crust after chilling, patch them with additional dough before baking. Lastly, bake the crust until it's golden brown with slightly firm edges, which usually takes about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure it doesn’t overbake.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the delicious Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream:

For the Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

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

Make sure to use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream:

Prepare the Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in egg yolk and just enough cold water to form a dough. Press into a tart pan and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled crust for 20 minutes, or until golden. Allow to cool completely before adding the filling.

Make the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream and sugar until soft peaks form. Stir in vanilla extract and chopped basil gently.

Assemble the Tart

Spread the cream filling evenly over the cooled crust and top with sliced strawberries. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Enjoy your delightful Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider brushing the strawberries with a little melted jelly or honey right before serving.

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream, it's best to assemble it no more than a few hours before serving. However, if you need to prepare components in advance, the crust can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. The cream filling should be beaten fresh, but if you prepare it early, keep it covered in the fridge and use it within a day for the best texture and flavor.

If you do have leftover tart, store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Cover it lightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing other flavors. Keep in mind that the strawberries may release juices over time, affecting the crispness of the crust. Don't worry, though—the tart will still be delicious even if it loses some of its original texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream can be served as a delightful finish to a summer meal or as a centerpiece for seasonal gatherings. Consider serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla or basil-infused ice cream for an added layer of flavor. A light dusting of powdered sugar over the top just before serving adds a touch of elegance and extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the strawberries.

To elevate the presentation, garnish the tart with additional whole strawberries and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves. You can also drizzle a balsamic reduction around the plate for a gourmet touch. This recipe is versatile; experiment with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, adjusting the sugar in the filling if the berries are particularly sweet or tart.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but if you use frozen, make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid a soggy tart.

→ How long will the tart keep?

It’s best to enjoy the tart within 2 days for optimal freshness, but it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

→ Can I substitute the basil?

If you’re not a fan of basil, you can try using mint for a different, yet refreshing flavor.

→ What type of pan should I use?

A fluted tart pan works best for this recipe to give it a beautiful edge, but any 9-inch round pan should do.