Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Introduction

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts are the perfect blend of creamy custard, fresh strawberries, and a buttery, crisp tart shell. The honey adds a subtle sweetness to the custard that pairs beautifully with the juicy strawberries on top. These tarts not only look stunning with their vibrant berry topping but also deliver a rich, indulgent flavor with every bite.

I remember the first time I made these tarts for a summer gathering. The moment I placed them on the table, everyone was drawn to their bright colors and delicious aroma. What’s great about Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts is their versatility—you can make them for special occasions or simply as a sweet treat for yourself.

The best part? They’re surprisingly easy to make! With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a beautiful dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re looking to wow your guests at a dinner party or enjoy a quiet afternoon with a sweet indulgence, these tarts are sure to become a favorite!

Perfect for:

• Holiday celebrations
• Afternoon tea
• Special occasions
• Fruit and custard lovers
• Gift-giving

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Here’s why Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts will become a new favorite:

• Decadent Custard Filling: The silky custard made with honey creates a rich, smooth texture that perfectly complements the crispy tart shell.
• Fresh Strawberry Topping: The sweetness and juiciness of fresh strawberries create a vibrant contrast to the creamy custard.
• Buttery Tart Shell: The buttery, flaky crust is the perfect foundation for the custard and fruit.
• Naturally Sweetened: The honey sweetens the custard naturally, enhancing the flavors without overwhelming them.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a special celebration or a simple treat, these tarts are both impressive and easy to make.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Chilling Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8 tarts
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-280 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 5g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts:

For the Tart Shell:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

Honey Custard Filling:

• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup honey
• 4 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Strawberry Topping:

• 8-10 fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for glazing)

Ingredient Highlights

• Butter: The butter creates a rich, flaky tart shell that contrasts beautifully with the smooth custard.
• Honey: Honey naturally sweetens the custard, adding depth of flavor without being overly sweet.
• Strawberries: Fresh strawberries provide a burst of juicy sweetness and a bright pop of color.
• Egg Yolks: Egg yolks are essential for creating a rich, creamy custard filling.
• Vanilla Extract: The vanilla extract adds warmth and a slight floral note to the custard.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts:

Prepare the Tart Shell:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or butter 8 tart pans (preferably 4-inch size).
2. Make the Tart Dough: In a food processor, pulse the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of cold water, and pulse until the dough comes together. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, one tablespoon at a time.
3. Chill the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, shape it into a disc, and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 30 minutes.
4. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼ inch thick. Press it into the prepared tart pans, trimming the excess dough. Use a fork to prick the bottom of each tart shell to prevent bubbling during baking.
5. Blind Bake the Shells: Line each tart shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown. Let the shells cool completely.

Prepare the Honey Custard Filling:

6. Make the Custard: In a medium saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, and honey over medium heat until it begins to steam but not boil.
7. Temper the Egg Yolks: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and salt. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the hot milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Gradually whisk the egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk mixture.
8. Thicken the Custard: Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, whisking constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and pour through a fine-mesh strainer into a bowl to remove any lumps.
9. Cool the Custard: Let the custard cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled tart shells. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the custard to set.

Assemble the Tarts:

10. Top with Strawberries: Once the custard has set, arrange the fresh strawberry slices on top of the custard in each tart.
11. Glaze (Optional): For an extra glossy finish, drizzle a bit of honey over the strawberries to glaze them.

How to Serve Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Dessert: These tarts make a perfect dessert for any gathering, from casual dinners to festive occasions.
• With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: Pair these tarts with a hot beverage for a delightful afternoon treat.
• For Special Occasions: Serve these tarts at birthday parties, bridal showers, or any event that calls for a special, elegant dessert.
• Gift-Giving: Pack these tarts in small boxes for a beautiful homemade gift.

Additional Tips for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Here are some tips to ensure your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts are perfect every time:

• Make Ahead: You can make the tart shells and custard ahead of time. Just assemble and top with strawberries before serving.
• Don’t Overfill the Shells: Be careful not to overfill the tart shells with custard, as it can overflow during baking.
• Use Fresh Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are key for the best flavor and presentation. Avoid using frozen strawberries, as they may become mushy.
• Check the Consistency of the Custard: If your custard is too runny, cook it a little longer, but be sure to whisk constantly to avoid curdling.

Recipe Variations for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Here are 10 variations you can try for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts:

• Mixed Berry Tarts: Use a combination of fresh berries like raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a colorful twist.
• Lemon Honey Custard Tarts: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the custard for a tangy, citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the honey.
• Peach Honey Custard Tarts: Replace the strawberries with fresh sliced peaches for a summer-inspired variation.
• Chocolate Honey Custard Tarts: Add a layer of chocolate ganache in the tart shell before filling with custard for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Almond Honey Custard Tarts: Add a tablespoon of ground almonds to the tart shell dough for a nutty flavor.
• Hazelnut Honey Custard Tarts: Garnish the top of the tarts with toasted hazelnuts for extra texture and flavor.
• Vegan Honey Custard Tarts: Substitute non-dairy milk, cream, and a plant-based egg replacer to make these tarts vegan-friendly.
• Raspberry Honey Custard Tarts: Replace the strawberries with fresh raspberries for a slightly tart contrast to the sweet custard.
• Coconut Honey Custard Tarts: Add shredded coconut to the custard filling for a tropical twist.
• Cinnamon Honey Custard Tarts: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon to the custard for a warm, spiced flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

• Freezing: You can freeze the tarts without the strawberries. Place them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover tarts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The custard will keep its texture, but the strawberries may lose some of their freshness.

Special Equipment for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts easier:

• Food Processor: A food processor helps make the tart dough quickly and easily.
• Tart Pans: Individual tart pans are ideal for making these tarts, but you can also use a tart pan with a removable bottom.
• Pastry Brush: Use a pastry brush to glaze the strawberries with honey for a beautiful finish.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for the best results.
• Whisk: A whisk is essential for properly mixing the egg yolks and custard.
• Fine-Mesh Strainer: Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the custard and ensure it’s smooth.
• Cooling Rack: Let the tart shells cool completely before filling with custard to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions for Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts

1. Can I use other fruits for the topping?
   Yes, feel free to use other fresh fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for the topping.
2. Can I make the tart shells in advance?
   Yes, you can make the tart shells ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container once they’ve cooled.
3. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
   Yes, maple syrup can be substituted for honey in the custard, but it will impart a different flavor.
4. How do I know when the custard is done?
   The custard should be thick and able to coat the back of a spoon. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
5. Can I make these tarts gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the tart shells gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts are the ultimate indulgence, blending a rich and creamy custard filling with fresh strawberries and a buttery, flaky tart shell. The natural sweetness from honey adds a delightful touch, making these tarts as delicious as they are beautiful.

Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a party, an afternoon tea, or a thoughtful gift—these tarts are sure to impress. Their elegant presentation and irresistible taste will make them a favorite with everyone.

Can’t wait to see your Strawberry Honey Custard Tarts in action! Be sure to share a photo on social media and tag me—I’d love to see your creations. Happy baking!