The Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart is one of those irresistible treats that feels like a burst of summer in every bite. With a crisp, buttery crust holding the smoothest, richest vanilla custard and topped with vibrant, juicy strawberries glazed to a natural shine, this tart is truly a celebration of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you smile with each forkful, perfect for both casual afternoons and special occasions.

Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays an essential role in balancing the flavor, texture, and beautiful appearance of this Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart. From the flaky crust to the velvety custard and fresh fruit topping, every element combines to create a harmonious masterpiece.

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky tart crust that holds everything together perfectly.

1/4 cup powdered sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness and contributes to a delicate crumb in the crust.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness in the crust and custard.

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Creates a rich, buttery texture essential for a flaky crust.
1 egg yolk: Binds the crust ingredients together while adding richness.

2-3 tablespoons ice water: Helps bring the dough together without making it tough.
1 1/4 cups whole milk: Forms the creamy base of the luscious custard.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the custard extra silky and indulgent.

1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard just enough to complement the strawberries.
1 vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with pure, comforting vanilla flavor.
4 egg yolks: Provides the structure and richness to thicken the custard beautifully.

1 tablespoon cornstarch: Ensures the custard reaches a smooth, spoonable consistency.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a glossy finish and extra silkiness to the custard once cooked.
1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced: The star topping offering natural sweetness and vibrant color.

1 tablespoon apricot jam (for glazing): Gives the strawberries a stunning shine and a hint of fruity glaze.
Fresh mint leaves (optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch and pretty garnish.

How to Make Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining the flour, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture takes on the texture of coarse crumbs. This ensures a flaky crust that melts in your mouth. Add the egg yolk and ice water carefully to bring the dough together. Wrap the dough in plastic and pop it in the fridge to chill for at least 30 minutes—this resting step is key to keeping the crust tender and easy to roll out.

Step 2: Blind Bake the Tart Shell

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your chilled dough on a floured surface and gently press it into your tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork to avoid puffing, then line it with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool completely before adding the custard, or the filling will get messy.

Step 3: Make the Luxurious Vanilla Custard

While the crust cools, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar in a saucepan. Split the vanilla bean and scrape the seeds out, adding both seeds and pod to the milk mixture; if using vanilla extract, wait to add that later. Heat gently until it just starts to simmer, drawing out that amazing vanilla aroma. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks and cornstarch together to prepare the thickening agent. Slowly pour the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling. Return everything to the pan and cook over medium heat, whisking nonstop until the custard thickens to a velvety consistency. Remove from heat, stir in butter and vanilla extract (if using), and let it cool slightly before filling the tart shell.

Step 4: Assemble the Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart

Pour the silky custard into the cooled tart crust, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Now comes the fun part—arrange your sliced strawberries on top in a pretty pattern. Their bright red color bursts against the pale custard, making this tart absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Glaze and Chill

Warm the apricot jam in a small saucepan until it melts down to a brushable consistency. Gently brush this glaze over the strawberries to give them a glossy, fresh-from-the-farm look and add a touch of sweetness. Add fresh mint leaves if you’d like a pop of green and a fragrant hint. Place the tart in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set everything beautifully before serving.

How to Serve Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart

Garnishes

A few sprigs of fresh mint elevate this tart from delicious to dazzling. You can even sprinkle a tiny pinch of powdered sugar over the top just before serving for a light, snowy effect, or add some edible flowers to bring an elegant flair.

Side Dishes

This Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart pairs superbly with a dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. If you want a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside a glass of sparkling rosé or a bright lemonade for a summer-worthy dessert platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on pretty plates with a drizzle of fresh berry coulis or a scattering of crushed pistachios for added crunch. For a charming touch, arrange extra strawberry slices in a rose shape on each plate or fill mini tart pans for bite-sized treats perfect for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to two days, so you can enjoy that wonderful custard and fresh strawberry flavor at a leisurely pace.

Freezing

Because of the delicate custard and fresh strawberries, this tart is best enjoyed fresh and isn’t ideal for freezing. Freezing can affect the texture of the custard and cause the strawberries to become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating

This tart is best served chilled, so reheating is not recommended. If you prefer a warmer dessert, try making the custard fresh and warming it slightly before adding it to the crust, then top with fresh strawberries just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for the Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart?

Fresh strawberries work best for this tart because they retain their texture and color beautifully. Frozen strawberries tend to release too much moisture and can make the crust soggy, so if you must use frozen, be sure to drain them well and pat dry.

What can I substitute for apricot jam in the glaze?

If you don’t have apricot jam on hand, peach or apple preserves also work well for glazing. They provide a similar sweetness and shine without overpowering the fresh strawberries.

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Absolutely! The custard can be made a day in advance and refrigerated in an airtight container. Just give it a gentle stir before pouring it into the tart shell when you’re ready to assemble.

How long should I chill the tart before serving?

A minimum of one hour in the fridge is recommended to let the custard set properly and allow the glaze to firm up. If you’re short on time, chilling for 30 minutes will still yield tasty results.

Is it possible to make the tart crust gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Just be sure to follow any instructions that come with the blend, and keep in mind that texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dessert that brings together classic flavors with fresh, summery brightness, this Vanilla Custard & Strawberry Tart is an absolute must-try. It’s a wonderful balance of creamy, crisp, and fruity that never fails to impress. Once you make it, this tart is sure to become a beloved favorite you’ll want to share over and over.

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