Scottish Strawberry Tarts are a charming and classic teatime dessert beloved for their simplicity, elegance, and irresistible freshness. These dainty tarts consist of crisp, buttery shortcrust pastry shells filled with silky vanilla custard, topped with vibrant whole strawberries, and finished with a glossy strawberry glaze. Traditionally enjoyed during the summer months or with afternoon tea, these mini tarts offer a perfect balance of texture and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These strawberry tarts are a delightful celebration of fresh fruit, creamy custard, and crisp pastry. They’re easy to assemble, visually stunning, and perfect for entertaining or serving as a refined finish to any meal. The homemade vanilla custard is smooth and not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavor of the strawberries to shine through. With their bright red tops and shiny glaze, these tarts are just as appealing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 small tartlet pastry shells (homemade or store-bought)
1 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 egg yolk
12 fresh whole strawberries, hulled
¼ cup strawberry jam
1 tablespoon water

Directions

Prepare the custard:
In a small saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and egg yolk. Whisk the mixture continuously over medium heat until it thickens into a custard-like consistency, about 5–6 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Assemble the tartlets:
Once the custard has cooled, spoon a small amount into each tart shell, spreading evenly to fill the base.
Add the strawberries:
Place one whole, hulled strawberry upright in the center of each tartlet, pointed-end up.
Glaze the fruit:
In a small saucepan, gently heat the strawberry jam with the water over low heat until it melts and becomes smooth. Brush the glaze over each strawberry to give a shiny finish.
Chill before serving:
Refrigerate the tarts for at least 20 minutes to allow the glaze to set and the custard to fully chill.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 mini tarts
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories: Approximately 165 kcal per tart

Variations

Berry Medley: Use a variety of berries such as raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a colorful twist.
Flavored Custard: Infuse the milk with lemon zest or use almond extract in place of vanilla for added complexity.
Chocolate Base: Add a thin layer of melted chocolate inside the tart shell before adding the custard.
Pastry Options: Use phyllo or puff pastry cups for a lighter, flakier texture.
Jam Substitutes: Use apricot jam or a berry compote as an alternative glaze.

storage/reheating

Scottish Strawberry Tarts are best served the day they are assembled for optimal texture. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The crust may soften slightly over time due to the moisture from the custard and strawberries. These tarts are not suitable for freezing, as the custard may separate and the strawberries lose their texture when thawed.

FAQs

Can I make the tart shells from scratch?

Yes, homemade shortcrust pastry can be used. Bake the shells ahead and cool completely before filling.

Is it possible to use custard powder instead of making it from scratch?

You can use custard powder prepared according to package instructions as a quicker alternative.

How do I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

For longer-lasting crispness, brush the inside of the tart shell with melted chocolate and allow it to set before adding the custard.

Can I use whipped cream instead of custard?

Yes, stabilized whipped cream or pastry cream can be used as a lighter alternative.

Are these tarts suitable for freezing?

No, freezing is not recommended due to the delicate custard and fresh strawberries.

How do I keep the strawberries shiny?

Brushing the strawberries with a simple glaze made from jam and water helps them stay glossy and fresh-looking.

Can I make the custard ahead of time?

Yes, the custard can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Stir before using.

What’s the best way to serve these tarts?

Serve chilled, ideally within a few hours of assembling, for the best combination of textures.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh strawberries are strongly recommended for appearance and texture, but if using frozen, thaw and pat dry thoroughly.

What occasions are these tarts best for?

They’re perfect for tea parties, brunch, baby showers, or as a light dessert after dinner.

Conclusion

Scottish Strawberry Tarts are a timeless dessert that captures the essence of simple, refined baking. With a buttery shell, smooth vanilla custard, and the jewel-like shine of glazed strawberries, they bring both charm and flavor to any occasion. Whether served as part of an afternoon tea spread or as a delicate dessert for guests, these tarts are sure to impress with their classic appeal and fresh, summery taste.

Scottish Strawberry Tarts

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These classic Scottish Strawberry Tarts are a charming teatime favorite—featuring crisp shortcrust pastry shells filled with silky vanilla custard and topped with glossy, glazed strawberries. Simple yet elegant, they’re perfect for garden parties, afternoon tea, or summer celebrations.

Author: Asma
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 mini tarts
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake (with cooked custard)
Cuisine: Scottish / British
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Make the Custard:
- In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, sugar, vanilla, cornstarch, and egg yolk.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–6 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Assemble the Tarts:
- Fill each tart shell with a spoonful of cooled custard.
- Place a whole strawberry, pointed side up, on top of each tart.
Make the Glaze:
- In a small saucepan, heat the strawberry jam with water until smooth and slightly runny.
- Brush glaze over strawberries to coat them with a glossy finish.
Chill & Serve:
- Refrigerate for 20 minutes to set the glaze before serving.

Notes

For best results, use ripe but firm strawberries.
Make ahead: Prepare custard and tart shells in advance, and assemble shortly before serving.
Add a mint leaf or powdered sugar dusting for an extra decorative touch.