Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry Mousse Tartlets are elegant, bite-sized desserts featuring a crisp tart shell filled with airy, creamy strawberry mousse. These delightful treats are perfect for spring and summer gatherings, offering a refreshing burst of berry flavor in every spoonful. With their beautiful presentation and smooth texture, they make a show-stopping addition to any dessert table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourunsalted buttersugaregg yolkvanilla extractcold watersaltfresh strawberriesgranulated sugarlemon juicengelatinheavy whipping cream

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini tart pan or line with removable bottoms.

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add the egg yolk, vanilla extract, and cold water. Mix until the dough comes together.

Press the dough into tartlet pans, making sure to evenly coat the bottom and sides. Prick the base with a fork.

Bake the tart shells for 12–15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.

For the mousse, puree the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Strain to remove seeds.

In a small saucepan, heat a bit of the puree and dissolve the gelatin in it. Mix it back into the rest of the puree and let cool.

Whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the strawberry puree into the whipped cream until smooth and well combined.

Spoon or pipe the mousse into the cooled tartlet shells. Chill for at least 2 hours until set.

Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or mint leaves before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 tartlets.Preparation time: 30 minutesBaking time: 15 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Add a thin layer of melted white chocolate at the base of the tart shell for extra richness.

Use raspberries or blueberries for a different fruit flavor.

Top with whipped cream or a drizzle of berry coulis for an elegant finish.

Incorporate a graham cracker or almond crust instead of traditional shortcrust.

storage/reheating

Store Strawberry Mousse Tartlets in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.They are not suitable for reheating, as the mousse texture may be affected.For longer storage, freeze the tartlet shells separately and assemble fresh.

FAQs

Can I make the tartlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shells and mousse a day in advance and assemble shortly before serving.

Do I need to use gelatin?

Gelatin helps the mousse set properly, but you can use agar-agar as a vegetarian alternative.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, just thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

What type of cream should I use?

Heavy whipping cream with at least 36% fat content is ideal for the mousse to hold its shape.

Can I make one large tart instead?

Absolutely, just adjust the baking time for the larger shell and slice to serve.

Why is my mousse runny?

It may not have chilled long enough or the gelatin wasn’t properly dissolved.

Are these tartlets overly sweet?

No, the balance of fresh fruit and cream makes them mildly sweet and refreshing.

How do I keep the tart shells crisp?

Brush the inside of the baked tart shells with melted chocolate or egg white before filling.

Can I add a glaze on top?

Yes, a thin layer of fruit glaze can enhance shine and flavor.

Are these suitable for kids?

Yes, they’re fruity, fun, and perfectly portioned for little hands.

Conclusion

Strawberry Mousse Tartlets are a stunning dessert choice that combines a buttery tart shell with light, fruity mousse for a refreshing and indulgent bite. Whether for a celebration or a sweet weekend treat, these tartlets are as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat. Give them a try and brighten your dessert spread with their summery charm.