Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream

Name: Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2–3 tablespoons ice water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 lemon; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Recipes

I absolutely love making this Strawberry Basil Tart with Cream during the summer months when strawberries are at their peak. The fresh, juicy berries paired with the aromatic fragrance of basil create a delightful flavor combination that surprises everyone at the table. The creamy filling adds a luxurious texture, making each bite a delightful experience. This tart isn’t just a feast for the eyes; it's a refreshing dessert that's perfect for warm evenings or brunch gatherings with friends. Trust me, it will quickly become your new favorite!

Created by

Carolyns

Last updated on 2026-02-08T19:38:27.935Z

When I first combined strawberries and basil in a tart, I was amazed at how beautifully their flavors complemented each other. The sweetness of the strawberries balances the herbaceous notes of basil perfectly. I learned that incorporating fresh herbs into desserts can elevate them from ordinary to extraordinary. The hint of basil adds a sophistication that surprises your palate.

As I experimented with different crusts, I found that a buttery tart shell really enhances the overall taste while providing a crisp contrast to the creamy filling. A dash of lemon zest in the cream also brightens the dish, making each bite a delight!

Why You Will Love This Tart
Unique flavor combination of sweet strawberries and aromatic basil
Luxurious cream filling that is incredibly satisfying
Visually stunning tart that impresses at any gathering

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

When it comes to making the Strawberry Basil Tart, the quality of your ingredients can truly transform the dish. Use the ripest strawberries you can find; they should be deep red and fragrant. Fresh berries not only enhance the tart's flavor but also its visual appeal. If strawberries are out of season, consider using raspberries, as they also pair beautifully with basil and cream.

Basil is the other star ingredient in this tart. Fresh basil leaves bring an aromatic note that elevates the sweet strawberries. Avoid using dried basil, as it lacks the essential oils that contribute to the vibrant flavor. If you can, look for young basil leaves, which have a milder and sweeter profile. This nuanced taste will contribute significantly to the overall balance of sweetness and freshness.

Perfecting the Tart Crust

Achieving a beautifully flaky tart crust can be daunting, but a few key tips can help. Make sure your butter is very cold; this promotes flakiness as it creates steam during baking. If the dough feels too warm while mixing, pop it into the fridge for a few minutes before rolling out. While pressing the dough into the tart pan, avoid stretching it, as this can lead to a crust that shrinks during baking.

After pre-baking your crust until it's lightly golden, let it cool completely before adding the cream filling. A warm crust can cause the filling to separate or weep. If you'll be making the tart in advance, you can prepare the crust a day ahead. Keep it wrapped well at room temperature, and once you're ready, fill it and proceed with the toppings.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful tart:

For the Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2–3 tablespoons ice water

For the Cream Filling

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For the Topping

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Once you've gathered the ingredients, you're ready to get started!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Strawberry Basil Tart:

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and chill for 30 minutes.

Pre-bake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prick the tart shell with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake for 20 minutes, or until lightly golden. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Cream Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat heavy cream, sugar, vanilla, and lemon zest until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the chopped basil to infuse the flavor.

Assemble the Tart

Once the crust has cooled, pour the cream filling into the tart crust. Arrange the sliced strawberries on top and sprinkle with additional basil if desired.

Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the tart for at least 1 hour before serving to set the filling. Slice and enjoy the delightful flavor of strawberry and basil!

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Basil Tart!

Pro Tips

For a more intense flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic glaze over the strawberries before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This tart is as stunning as it is delicious, making it an impressive centerpiece for brunch gatherings. To elevate the presentation, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. A light drizzle of balsamic reduction can also bring out the strawberries' sweetness while adding an extra layer of flavor.

For a more festive touch, scatter some edible flowers on top—such as pansies or nasturtiums. These not only add color but also bring a hint of peppery flavor that complements the basil nicely. The visual contrast is stunning, and your guests will appreciate the extra effort.

Storing Your Tart

If you have leftovers, this tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, to maintain the best texture, it’s advisable to keep the strawberries separate until ready to serve. This prevents the moisture from the fruit from soaking into the crust, which can make it soggy.

For longer storage, you might consider preparing the crust in advance and freezing it. After baking and cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy the tart, thaw it before adding the filling and toppings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can this tart be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust and filling a day in advance. Assemble the tart the day you plan to serve it.

→ What can I substitute for basil?

Mint is a great alternative if you want a different herb flavor. However, basil really complements the strawberries beautifully.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are best, you can use frozen ones. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before using.