Open Strawberry Tarts bring a lovely touch of summer to any family table. These pretty little desserts look elegant, yet they feel relaxed and welcoming at the same time. Each tart starts with a light and soft flan base that holds a generous layer of vanilla-flavoured whipped cream. Fresh chopped strawberries sit on top, while a small sprig of mint adds colour and freshness. Together, the flavours create a dessert that tastes bright, creamy, and perfect for warm evenings.
One of the best things about these individual tarts is how easy they fit into family gatherings and dinner parties alike. They feel special enough for celebrations, yet they never seem too heavy after a meal. In fact, the soft texture of the base and the freshness of the fruit make them ideal for summer entertaining. Guests often enjoy desserts that feel light, especially after a barbecue or a rich main course.
The tart base also adds to the charm of this dessert. Unlike many chilled pastry desserts, the base does not need refrigeration. As a result, it keeps its soft texture and gentle sweetness without becoming firm or dry. Meanwhile, the strawberries and whipped cream can stay chilled until serving time. That contrast between the cool topping and the soft base creates a lovely balance in every bite.
Fresh strawberries play the starring role here, so choosing ripe fruit makes a big difference. Sweet strawberries add natural flavour and colour, which means the dessert needs very little extra decoration. Their bright red colour also looks beautiful against the pale cream and golden flan base. Furthermore, the mint sprig adds a clean finish that lifts the whole dessert.
These tarts work wonderfully for family occasions because everyone receives their own individual dessert. Children often enjoy having their own small tart, while adults appreciate the neat presentation. In addition, serving individual desserts saves time during dinner parties since there is no slicing or plating at the table. Everything looks tidy and ready to enjoy.
Another reason families love these tarts is their flexibility. You can prepare the cream and strawberries ahead of time, which helps reduce stress before guests arrive. Then, when dessert time comes, you simply assemble the tarts and serve them fresh. This simple approach leaves more time to relax and enjoy the evening with family and friends.
Although these tarts look impressive, they never feel overly complicated. Their beauty comes from fresh ingredients and simple presentation rather than fancy decoration. Consequently, they suit both casual garden meals and more formal summer dinners. They also pair wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a glass of chilled sparkling wine for the adults at the table.
For an extra summer touch, many families like to serve these open strawberry tarts outdoors. The fresh fruit and cool cream feel especially refreshing on warm evenings. A gentle breeze, good conversation, and a plate of strawberry tarts can easily turn an ordinary meal into a memorable occasion.
Open Strawberry Tarts celebrate everything people love about summer desserts. They are fresh, colourful, light and full of flavour. Most importantly, they bring people together around the table in a simple and welcoming way.
Open Strawberry Tart
Equipment
- 6 individual flan tins or tart tins
- Palette knife or spoon
Ingredients
Flan Bases:
- 125 g plain flour
- 75 g caster sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 pinch salt
- 75 g unsalted butter softened
- 1 medium egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp milk
The Filling:
- 300 ml double cream
- 2 tbsp icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
The Topping:
- 250 g fresh strawberries chopped
- 6 sprigs fresh mint
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Tins:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C fan or 200°C conventional. Grease the individual tart tins lightly with butter.
Make the Flan Batter:
- Add the flour, caster sugar, baking powder and salt to a mixing bowl. Stir well.125 g plain flour, 75 g caster sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 pinch salt
- Next, add the softened butter, egg, vanilla extract and milk. Mix until a smooth and soft batter forms.75 g unsalted butter, 1 medium egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 2 tbsp milk
Fill the Tins:
- Divide the batter evenly between the tart tins. Spread the mixture gently so it rises slightly around the edges to create a small lip for the filling.
Bake the Bases:
- Place the tins onto a baking tray. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the bases turn lightly golden and spring back when touched.
Cool the Bases:
- Remove the tarts from the oven and allow them to cool for 10 minutes in the tins. Then transfer them onto a cooling rack. Do not chill the bases, as they taste best soft and fresh at room temperature.
Prepare the Cream:
- Pour the double cream into a chilled bowl. Add the icing sugar and vanilla extract. Whisk until soft peaks form. Keep the cream chilled until needed.300 ml double cream, 2 tbsp icing sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract
Prepare the Strawberries:
- Wash and chop the strawberries into small pieces. Chill them in the fridge until serving time.250 g fresh strawberries
Assemble the Tarts:
- Spoon or pipe the vanilla cream into the centre of each tart. Top with chopped strawberries and finish with a fresh mint sprig.6 sprigs fresh mint
Serve:
- Serve the tarts straight away for the freshest flavour and texture.