Strawberry Mascarpone Tartlets – Clara quick dinners

Strawberry Mascarpone Tartlets are a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and fresh. With buttery tart shells filled with silky mascarpone cream and topped with juicy strawberries, they’re as stunning as they are delicious. These mini desserts are perfect for spring gatherings, afternoon tea, or when you want something elegant yet easy to prepare.

ingredients

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

tartlet shells (store-bought or homemade)mascarpone cheeseheavy creamconfectioners’ sugarvanilla extractlemon zestfresh strawberries (sliced)honey or fruit glaze (optional for shine)

directions

If using store-bought tart shells, ensure they are fully baked and cooled. If making homemade, blind bake according to your recipe and let cool.

In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone with confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold it into the mascarpone mixture until fully combined and fluffy.

Spoon or pipe the mascarpone cream into each tart shell, filling them just to the top.

Arrange fresh strawberry slices on top of each tartlet in a decorative pattern.

(Optional) Brush the strawberries lightly with honey or a warm fruit glaze for added shine and sweetness.

Chill the tartlets for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 tartlets.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add a layer of strawberry jam or lemon curd beneath the cream.
Top with a mix of berries for a colorful look.
Use chocolate tart shells for a richer twist.
Drizzle with balsamic reduction for a gourmet touch.
Add chopped pistachios or almonds for crunch.

storage/reheating

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Best served chilled—no reheating needed.
Avoid freezing, as mascarpone cream can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use cream cheese instead of mascarpone?
Yes, but mascarpone offers a smoother, more delicate flavor.

Do I need to sweeten the strawberries?
Not unless they’re very tart—ripe strawberries are naturally sweet enough.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble a few hours in advance and chill until ready to serve.

Do I have to whip the cream separately?
Yes, it helps create a light and fluffy filling when folded into the mascarpone.

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best for texture and presentation.

Can I use phyllo or puff pastry shells instead?
Yes, just bake them into tartlet shapes and cool before filling.

Is this dessert very sweet?
It’s mildly sweet, with a balanced richness from the cream and a fruity freshness.

How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tartlet shells or crusts.

Can I add flavoring to the cream?
Yes, try almond extract, rose water, or orange zest for variations.

How do I make the glaze for shine?
Warm a bit of apricot jam or honey with a splash of water and brush lightly over the berries.

Conclusion

Strawberry Mascarpone Tartlets are the perfect mini dessert—fresh, creamy, and easy to love. Their elegant look and bright flavor make them ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a festive brunch or a simple sweet craving. Once you try them, they’re bound to become a go-to favorite.

Print