If you’re craving a dessert that is both elegant and utterly irresistible, my Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets are the way to go. These charming little treats combine a perfectly flaky crust, a silky vanilla pastry cream, and juicy, vibrant strawberries, making each bite a harmony of textures and flavors. They’re perfect for parties, special occasions, or simply to indulge yourself and your loved ones. And trust me, once you try them, these tartlets will quickly become a cherished staple in your dessert repertoire.

Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets is easier than you might expect, thanks to a handful of simple, kitchen-friendly ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the rich creaminess of the custard to the bright sweetness of fresh strawberries, every ingredient plays a starring role in this delicious symphony.

Granulated sugar (100 grams / 1/2 cup): Sweetens the pastry cream without overpowering it, balancing the tart fruit perfectly.
Cornstarch (24 grams / 3 tablespoons): Gives the custard its luscious, pudding-like thickness and smooth texture.
Pinch of Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the custard taste rich and well-rounded.
Large egg yolks (4, room temperature): The heart of the pastry cream, adding richness and a beautiful golden color.
Whole milk (480 milliliters / 2 cups): The creamy base that turns the custard silky smooth.
Cold unsalted butter (42 grams / 3 tablespoons, cubed): Adds a velvety finish and depth to the custard’s flavor.
Vanilla bean paste or extract (2 teaspoons): Infuses the custard with that classic, comforting vanilla aroma and taste.
Fresh strawberries (454 grams / 1 pound): Sweet, juicy, and vibrant, these are the star toppings that bring freshness and color.
Apricot preserves (80 grams / 1/4 cup): Used for glazing, adding a beautiful shine and a subtle fruity note.

How to Make Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets

Step 1: Make the Pastry Cream

Start by mixing the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt in a large saucepan. Whisk in the egg yolks until the mixture becomes lighter and slightly thickened—this takes about 2 to 3 minutes and really builds the base flavor. Gradually whisk in the whole milk until the blend is smooth and perfectly combined.

Place the pan over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent lumps as it heats up. Once it begins to boil, continue to cook for just 1–2 minutes, until the custard thickens like pudding. This step is crucial to get that perfect creamy texture without any egginess.

After cooking, strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to catch any bits and ensure silky smoothness. Stir in the cold butter cubes and vanilla, letting the butter melt until the custard gleams with richness. Press plastic wrap directly onto the surface and let cool at room temperature before chilling it completely in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

While the pastry cream chills, wash and remove the stems from the strawberries, then dice them into small pieces that will fit beautifully atop each tartlet. This fresh fruit will provide a sweet and slightly tangy contrast to the creamy custard.

Step 3: Assemble the Tartlets

Using a spoon or a pastry bag, carefully fill each tart shell (homemade or store-bought) with a generous amount of the chilled pastry cream. Don’t be shy; the creamy custard is the heart of these treats!

Top each filled tartlet with a spoonful of the diced strawberries, piling them high for maximum appeal and flavor.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

Warm the apricot preserves in the microwave for about 20 to 30 seconds until runny. Using a pastry brush, gently coat the strawberries with this glaze to give the tartlets a shiny, professional finish and a hint of fruity sweetness. Serve these beauties immediately or keep them refrigerated for up to 2 hours before presenting to your guests.

How to Serve Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets

Garnishes

For a charming presentation, consider sprinkling the tartlets with a light dusting of powdered sugar or fresh mint leaves. These little touches add elegance and enhance the fresh flavors without overpowering the delicate custard and strawberry balance.

Side Dishes

The light and sweet nature of Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets makes them a delightful companion to a cup of hot coffee or tea. For a fuller dessert spread, serve alongside lemon sorbet or a bowl of whipped cream for guests to add if they wish.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the tartlets on rustic wooden boards or vintage cake stands to give your dessert table a warm, inviting look. For parties, place small edible flowers on each tartlet, or serve them in decorative mini cupcake liners to add colorful flair that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any tartlets left after a party (and I hope you do!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep beautifully for up to 2 days while retaining their fresh flavor and crisp crust.

Freezing

Because of the fresh strawberries and delicate custard, freezing the assembled tartlets isn’t ideal as it affects texture. However, you can freeze unfilled tart shells for up to 2 months. Simply thaw before filling and serving.

Reheating

We don’t recommend reheating Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets since this can melt the custard and soften the crust. Better to enjoy them chilled and fresh for that perfect, balanced bite every time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought tart shells instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought tart shells save time and still taste great. Just be sure to pick a good-quality brand with a flaky, sturdy crust to hold up to the custard and strawberries.

What can I do if strawberries aren’t in season?

When fresh strawberries aren’t available, swapping in a strawberry compote or even fresh raspberries or blueberries will work well. The compote adds sweetness and moisture that complements the custard beautifully.

Why do I need to brush the strawberries with apricot glaze?

The apricot glaze gives the tartlets a lovely shiny finish that looks professional and appetizing. Besides appearance, it helps seal the fruit, keeping the strawberries fresh and the crust crisp a little longer.

Can I prepare the pastry cream a day ahead?

Yes, making the pastry cream a day ahead is a great way to save time. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface in the refrigerator to prevent a skin from forming.

How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Adding the fresh strawberries just before serving is key to keeping the crust crisp. Also, the glaze helps protect the fruit’s juices from saturating the tart shell.

Final Thoughts

These Mini Strawberry Custard Tartlets are truly a joy to make and share. With their charming size and unbeatable flavor blend, they’re sure to brighten any gathering or quiet moment at home. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see for yourself how these delicate tartlets become instant favorites. Happy baking!