Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe: Flaky, Buttery, Dreamy

Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts are the epitome of springtime sweetness, combining the freshness of strawberries, the richness of custard, and the flaky, buttery goodness of brioche.

These show-stopping desserts are sure to impress with their elegant presentation and irresistible flavors.

Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe: A Quick Overview

Category	Description
Recipe Description	Flaky brioche pastry filled with a creamy strawberry custard and topped with fresh strawberries
Preparation Time	30 minutes
Cooking Time	25 minutes
Total Time	55 minutes
Type of Dish	Dessert
Cuisine	French-inspired
Quantity Produced	12 tarts
Number of Calories	approximately 250-300 per tart

About Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe

This Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe is a masterclass in textures and flavors, with a tender, flaky brioche crust giving way to a rich, creamy custard filling, all topped off with a burst of fresh strawberry sweetness.

Perfect for springtime gatherings, baby showers, or Mother’s Day celebrations, these elegant tarts are sure to impress with their beautiful presentation and irresistible flavors.

With a simple, step-by-step recipe and a few clever shortcuts, you’ll be whipping up these show-stopping desserts like a pro in no time!

Why does the Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe Stand Out?

• Flaky, buttery brioche pastry: Made with a rich, yeast-based dough, the pastry is tender, flaky, and utterly indulgent.
• Creamy strawberry custard: A velvety-smooth custard infused with the sweetness of strawberries and a hint of vanilla, adding a luxurious touch to the tarts.
• Fresh strawberry topping: A pop of color and freshness, the sliced strawberries add natural sweetness and a burst of flavor to each bite.
• French-inspired elegance: The combination of brioche pastry and custard filling gives the tarts a sophisticated, French patisserie-inspired flair.
• Perfect for special occasions: These tarts are ideal for serving at baby showers, bridal showers, or other celebrations where a show-stopping dessert is required.
• Make-ahead friendly: The brioche pastry and custard can be prepared ahead of time, making these tarts a convenient option for busy hosts.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the strawberries for other fruits, such as blueberries or raspberries, to create a unique flavor combination.

What are the ingredients in the Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts recipe?

For the Brioche Pastry:

• 4 cups (500g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) warm milk
• 3 tablespoons (45g) granulated sugar

For the Strawberry Custard:

• 2 cups (475ml) whole milk
• 1/2 cup (115g) granulated sugar
• 3 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups (250g) hulled and sliced strawberries

Must-Have Equipment for Making Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe

• Stand mixer: For mixing and kneading the brioche dough
• Large mixing bowl: For combining and whisking the custard ingredients
• Hand whisk: For whisking the egg yolks and sugar
• Medium saucepan: For heating the milk and making the custard
• Strainer: For straining the custard to remove any egg solids
• Pastry brush: For brushing the brioche pastry with egg wash
• Rolling pin: For rolling out the brioche dough to the desired thickness
• Tart pan with removable bottom: For baking and shaping the tarts
• Cooling rack: For cooling the baked tarts
• Piping bag and piping tips: For piping the custard into the baked tart shells
• Cutting tools (e.g. pastry cutter or knife): For cutting the brioche dough into desired shapes

Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe: step by step guide

Step 1: Make the Brioche Dough

• In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup warm milk and 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast. Stir to dissolve the yeast, then let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Add 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened, and mix until the dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
• Knead the dough on a floured surface for 10-12 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard and Strawberries

• In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups heavy cream, 1/2 cup whole milk, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large egg yolks and 1 tablespoon granulated sugar. Temper the egg yolks by slowly pouring the warm cream mixture into the eggs, whisking constantly.
• Strain the custard into a clean bowl and let cool to room temperature. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Hull and slice 2 cups fresh strawberries. Toss with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and let sit for 15-30 minutes, until the strawberries release their juice.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Tarts

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the risen brioche dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Cut out circles of dough using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
• Spoon a small amount of cooled custard onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges. Top with a few slices of sugared strawberries.
• Fold the other half of the dough circle over the filling, pressing the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges and create a decorative border.
• Place the tarts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each tart. Brush the tops with a little heavy cream and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tarts are golden brown. Let cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Perfect Pairings for Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad with a dollop of whipped cream complements the sweetness of the tarts.
• Coffee or Espresso: A rich and bold coffee or espresso pairs nicely with the sweetness of the strawberries and the flaky brioche.
• Champagne or Sparkling Wine: A glass of bubbly adds a celebratory touch to the dessert, perfect for special occasions.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm, flaky pastry.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a luxurious touch and helps balance the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a deep, rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
• Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint adds a refreshing and cooling touch to the dessert.

Mastering Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Recipe: Insider Tips and Tricks

Brioche Pastry:

• Use high-quality ingredients: European-style butter and unbleached all-purpose flour will give you the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together, then let it rest to allow the gluten to develop.
• Let it rise: Give the dough time to rise, as this will help the pastry become light and airy.

Strawberry Custard:

• Temper your eggs: Gradually add the warm milk to the egg yolks to prevent scrambling the eggs.
• Don’t overcook: Cook the custard until it thickens, but don’t overcook it, as it will continue to thicken as it cools.
• Strain the custard: Strain the custard to remove any egg solids and ensure a smooth texture.

Assembly and Baking:

• Chill the pastry: Chill the pastry before rolling it out to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
• Don’t overfill: Fill the pastry shells about 3/4 of the way full to allow for expansion during baking.
• Bake until golden: Bake the tarts until they’re golden brown, but not too dark, to prevent burning.

Tips for Success:

• Make ahead: Make the brioche pastry and custard ahead of time to save time and reduce stress.
• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh strawberries will give you the best flavor and texture.
• Practice makes perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first batch doesn’t turn out perfectly – practice makes perfect!

What nutritional benefits do the Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts Offer?

Carbohydrates:

• Energy source: The brioche pastry and strawberries provide a natural source of energy from complex carbohydrates.
• Fiber content: The strawberries and brioche pastry contain dietary fiber, which can help with digestion and satiety.

Protein:

• Egg yolks: The egg yolks in the custard provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and maintenance.
• Dairy: The milk and butter in the recipe contribute to the protein content, supporting bone health and muscle function.

Fats:

• Healthy fats: The unsalted butter and egg yolks provide healthy fats, essential for brain function, hormone production, and absorption of vitamins.

Vitamins and Minerals:

• Vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, essential for immune function, skin health, and iron absorption.
• Calcium: The milk and butter in the recipe provide calcium, crucial for bone health and density.
• Iron: The egg yolks and strawberries contain iron, essential for healthy red blood cells and oxygen transport.

Antioxidants:

• Antioxidant-rich strawberries: Strawberries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.
• Flavonoids: The strawberries contain flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Other Benefits:

• Mood booster: The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats in the tarts can help regulate blood sugar levels and provide a feeling of fullness and satisfaction.
• Supports healthy gut bacteria: The fiber content in the strawberries and brioche pastry can help support the growth of healthy gut bacteria, promoting a strong immune system.

How can you preserve leftovers of Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts?

Short-Term Storage:

• Room temperature: Store the tarts at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Refrigerate: Refrigerate the tarts for up to 5 days, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.

Freezing:

• Freeze individual tarts: Wrap individual tarts tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Freeze assembled tarts: Wrap assembled tarts tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Freeze custard and pastry separately: Freeze the custard and pastry separately, then assemble and bake when ready.

Thawing and Reheating:

• Thaw frozen tarts overnight: Thaw frozen tarts in the refrigerator overnight, then serve at room temperature.
• Reheat in the oven: Reheat thawed tarts in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Reheat in the microwave: Reheat thawed tarts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warmed through.

Tips:

• Label and date leftovers: Label and date leftovers so you can easily keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
• Use airtight containers: Use airtight containers to store leftovers to prevent moisture and other contaminants from affecting the tarts.
• Consume within a reasonable time frame: Consume leftovers within a reasonable time frame to ensure food safety and quality.

Conclusion

With these Strawberry Custard Brioche Tarts, you’ll be treating your loved ones to a truly unforgettable dessert experience.

The combination of flaky, buttery brioche, rich custard, and sweet strawberries is a match made in heaven, and the best part is that they’re surprisingly easy to make.

So go ahead, get creative, and make these tarts your own – whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to brighten up a weekday, these sweet treats are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Happy baking!

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
A: Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using. Fresh strawberries will give the best flavor and texture, though!

Q: Can I make the brioche dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can make the brioche dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.

Q: How do I prevent the custard from curdling?
A: Make sure to cook the custard over low heat, whisking constantly, and remove it from the heat as soon as it thickens. Also, use high-quality eggs and dairy products for the best results.

Q: Can I use a different type of fruit instead of strawberries?
A: Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just adjust the baking time and sugar content according to the fruit you choose.

Q: How do I store the tarts after baking?
A: Let the tarts cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months and thaw at room temperature when ready to serve.

Q: Can I make these tarts in a mini muffin tin?
A: Yes, you can make mini tarts using a mini muffin tin. Just adjust the baking time to 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.