This Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is a show-stopping dessert that brings elegance to any table. With its buttery tart crust, smooth custard cream, and fresh strawberries arranged in a stunning rose pattern, this tart is perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or just an indulgent treat. Its delightful flavors and beautiful presentation make it a must-have for special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Stunning Presentation: The rose design of fresh strawberries makes this tart visually captivating.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of buttery crust, creamy custard, and sweet strawberries creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for celebrations or everyday enjoyment; it fits any occasion.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the crust and custard in advance, making assembly quick and easy.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry items that are easy to find.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 9-inch tart pan
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickens the process of making the tart crust by blending ingredients evenly.
• Tart pan: Ensures the perfect shape and allows for easy removal once baked.
• Saucepan: Essential for cooking the custard cream to achieve a smooth texture.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 egg yolk
• 1-2 tbsp ice water

For the Custard Cream (Pastry Cream):

• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• ¼ cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Strawberry Rose Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (thinly sliced)
• 2 tbsp apricot jam (for glaze)
• 1 tbsp warm water

this recipe

How to Make Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream

Step 1: Make the Tart Crust

1. In a food processor, pulse flour, butter, and powdered sugar until crumbly.
2. Add egg yolk and 1 tbsp of ice water, pulsing until the dough comes together. If needed, add more water.
3. Shape dough into a disc, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough and press into a 9-inch tart pan.
5. Prick the bottom with a fork and bake for 15-18 minutes until golden. Let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard Cream

1. In a saucepan, heat milk over medium heat until warm.
2. In a bowl, whisk together sugar, egg yolks, and cornstarch until smooth.
3. Slowly pour warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking continuously.
4. Return to saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and butter, then let cool.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

1. Spread custard cream evenly over the cooled tart crust.
2. Arrange sliced strawberries in concentric circles starting from the outer edge, slightly overlapping to create that beautiful rose effect.

Step 4: Glaze & Serve

1. Mix apricot jam with warm water and brush lightly over strawberries for shine.
2. Chill for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your elegant Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!

How to Serve Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream

Serving your Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream can elevate any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a simple family dinner. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement this elegant dessert perfectly.

Classic Presentation

• Use a cake stand to showcase the tart, allowing guests to admire its beauty before serving.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Serve alongside lightly sweetened whipped cream for a creamy contrast that enhances the flavors.
• Consider adding a hint of vanilla or almond extract to the whipped cream for extra depth.

Accompanying Fresh Berries

• Serve with a side of mixed fresh berries like blueberries and raspberries for added texture and taste.
• The tartness of the berries complements the sweetness of the custard cream beautifully.

Ice Cream Delight

• Offer a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to create a wonderful temperature contrast.
• The creaminess of the ice cream pairs well with the tart’s fresh strawberries.

How to Perfect Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream

Creating the perfect Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Use cold ingredients: Ensure all ingredients for the crust are cold to achieve a flaky texture.
• Don’t skip chilling: Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinkage during baking, keeping your tart crust intact.
• Whisk continuously: When making custard, whisk constantly to prevent lumps and ensure smoothness.
• Layer strawberries carefully: Arrange strawberries in overlapping circles for an aesthetically pleasing rose pattern.
• Adjust sweetness: Taste the custard before cooling; adjust sugar based on your preference for sweetness.
• Let it set: Allow the tart to chill after assembly so that the custard firms up properly, making slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the tart.
2. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese that provide a creamy contrast to the dessert.
3. Crusty Baguette Slices: Serve slices of freshly baked baguette to add texture and soak up any custard spills.
4. Pistachio Crumble: A crunchy pistachio topping offers a nutty flavor that pairs nicely with creamy desserts.
5. Herbed Yogurt Dip: A tangy yogurt dip lightly flavored with herbs can cleanse the palate between bites.
6. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A warm chocolate sauce adds richness and decadence when drizzled over each slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect Tart Crust Texture: If your tart crust is too crumbly or too wet, it won’t hold its shape. Ensure you measure flour accurately and pulse the ingredients in the food processor just until combined.
• Overcooking the Custard Cream: Cooking the custard for too long can make it grainy. Keep stirring constantly over low heat until it thickens, then remove it promptly from heat.
• Improper Strawberry Slicing: If your strawberries are cut unevenly, they will not create a beautiful rose pattern. Use a sharp knife and aim for even, thin slices to achieve that elegant look.
• Not Chilling the Tart Enough: Skipping the chilling step can result in a runny custard. Allow the tart to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to set properly.
• Skipping the Glaze: Omitting the apricot jam glaze makes the tart look dull. Always brush on the glaze for that lovely shine and added flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Make sure to keep it away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.

Freezing Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream

• The tart can be frozen before adding strawberries.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it lasts up to 2 months in the freezer.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before adding fresh strawberries and glazing.

Reheating Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes. This method helps maintain texture.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for short intervals (10-15 seconds) if needed, but this may soften the crust.
• Stovetop: Not recommended, as it can compromise texture and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries for my Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but they may not look as pretty when arranged. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before using them as a topping.

How do I prevent my custard cream from curdling?

To prevent curdling, always whisk continuously when adding warm milk to egg yolks. Also, cook over low heat without boiling to maintain a smooth texture.

What is the best way to serve Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream?

Serve chilled after allowing it to set in the fridge. It’s perfect for special occasions or as an elegant dessert after dinner.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add flavors like lemon or almond extract to your custard cream or top with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Rose Tart with Custard Cream is not only visually striking but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different fruit toppings or flavors in your custard cream. Give this recipe a try—it’s sure to impress!