Whipped Strawberry Tart Recipe
If you’re searching for a dessert that screams “spring delight” but doesn’t keep you tied to the oven, you need to try this Whipped Strawberry Tart. Picture a buttery graham cracker crust, a cloud-like whipped cream and cream cheese filling swirled with real strawberry, and a jewel-toned crown of fresh sliced berries—each bite brings a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, creamy, and crunchy. Not only is this showstopper incredibly fun to prep (and eat!), but it’s also a breeze to make ahead. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this Whipped Strawberry Tart is certain to become your go-to treat when strawberries are at their juiciest.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Whipped Strawberry Tart relies on kitchen staples and fresh fruit, making every component count for both flavor and color. Each ingredient has its own role—from the structure of the crust to the silky, sweet-tart filling, to the vibrant strawberry topping.
- Graham cracker crumbs: The backbone of the crust, lending notes of honey and crunch that stand up to the creamy filling.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the crust just enough to balance the tang from the cream cheese.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and stirred in to pull the crust together, adding a rich, toasty flavor.
- Heavy cream: Whipped until cloud-like, giving the filling a light, mousse-like texture.
- Cream cheese: Softened for effortless blending, it lends body and a gentle tang that plays beautifully with strawberries.
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly into the filling for even sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash amps up the flavor with warm, comforting notes.
- Strawberry jam or puree: Swirls the essence of real strawberry through every creamy layer; homemade or store-bought both work wonderfully.
- Fresh strawberries: Sliced for the topping, they add a pop of color, juicy sweetness, and undeniable wow-factor.
- Mint leaves (optional): The perfect garnish for a hint of freshness and a gorgeous, green finish.
How to Make Whipped Strawberry Tart
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter until the texture reminds you of wet sand—just the right dampness for pressing into a tart pan. Firmly pack the mixture onto the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan to form an even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until lightly golden and aromatic. Let the crust cool completely before you fill it, so your filling stays perfectly fluffy!
Step 2: Whip the Cream
Pour chilled heavy cream into a large mixing bowl and use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) to beat until stiff peaks form. You’re looking for whipped cream that holds its shape and feels billowy—this is what makes the tart filling impossibly light and silky. Chill the whipped cream if you need a quick pause before moving on.
Step 3: Make the Strawberries & Cream Filling
In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Sift in powdered sugar, then add vanilla and your chosen strawberry jam or puree. Blend everything together until it’s velvety with a gorgeous blush-pink hue. Gently fold the cold whipped cream into the strawberry mixture, working slowly to keep everything light and airy—the hallmark of the perfect Whipped Strawberry Tart.
Step 4: Spoon and Smooth the Filling
Spoon your luscious filling into the cooled crust and use a spatula to smooth it to the edges. Take your time for a pretty, even finish, as this sets the stage for the brilliant strawberry topping you’ll add next. The creamy filling will hold its shape but still feel plush and dreamy.
Step 5: Top with Fresh Strawberries and Chill
Artfully arrange sliced fresh strawberries over the top of the filling—fan them out in circles, scatter randomly, or create your own berry masterpiece. Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours to set the filling; this rest time lets the flavors meld and gives the tart its delightful sliceable texture.
How to Serve Whipped Strawberry Tart
Garnishes
Just before serving, add a few sprigs of fresh mint or an extra dusting of powdered sugar on top for that final pop of green and sparkle. If you want to take the Whipped Strawberry Tart over the top, a drizzle of warm strawberry sauce or white chocolate shavings will make every slice look bakery-worthy.
Side Dishes
Pair this tart with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche for a decadent touch. On the lighter side, it plays nicely with a platter of mixed berries or a crisp glass of sparkling wine for brunch or dessert.
Creative Ways to Present
Instead of one large tart, try dividing the crust and filling between mini tart pans for individual treats—perfect for picnics or parties. Or, for a picnic twist, serve slices in mason jars layered with extra berries and biscuit crumble for a stunning parfait-style Whipped Strawberry Tart experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover Whipped Strawberry Tart tightly with plastic wrap or transfer pieces to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—though it’s so irresistible, a tart rarely lasts that long!
Freezing
You can freeze the tart (minus the fresh strawberry topping) by wrapping it well in plastic and a layer of foil. Thaw it overnight in the fridge, then add a fresh layer of sliced strawberries just before serving to restore that bright, fresh finish.
Reheating
This tart is best served chilled from the fridge, so reheating isn’t necessary. If the crust or filling gets a little firm after sitting in the cold, just let the slice rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving—it’ll become creamy and perfect once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! While strawberries make this tart extra dreamy, you can swap in raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, or even peaches. Just adjust the jam or puree in the filling to match your chosen fruit.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
For picture-perfect slices, use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut. Chilling the tart for at least 2 hours before cutting helps the filling hold its shape beautifully.
Can I make the Whipped Strawberry Tart gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free, so you can accommodate everyone at the table.
Do I need a tart pan?
A classic tart pan with a removable bottom creates beautiful edges and easy serving, but if you don’t have one, a regular 9-inch pie plate will work just fine—though the sides may be a bit higher.
How do I make my own strawberry puree?
Simply blend hulled, ripe strawberries in a food processor with a spoonful of sugar and a squeeze of lemon juice, then strain for a silky homemade puree you can add right to the filling.
Final Thoughts
This Whipped Strawberry Tart is one of those recipes that brings instant joy—and a wave of compliments! It’s a celebration of simple ingredients, fresh flavors, and easy techniques that anyone can master. Give it a try and share a slice or two with someone you love—the smiles are guaranteed.
Print
Whipped Strawberry Tart Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, dreamy goodness of this Whipped Strawberry Tart. A buttery graham cracker crust cradles a luscious filling of whipped cream, cream cheese, and strawberry jam, topped with fresh strawberries for a burst of fruity freshness.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup strawberry jam or puree
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press into a tart pan and bake.
- Beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and strawberry jam until smooth. Fold in whipped cream.
- Spread filling into cooled crust. Top with strawberries and refrigerate.
- Garnish with mint leaves before serving, if desired.
Notes
- For a brighter flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the filling.
- You can use store-bought jam or homemade strawberry puree for the filling base.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake + Partial Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
