These strawberry custard tartlets are a light and elegant dessert that beautifully combines the richness of vanilla custard with the brightness of fresh strawberries and mint. With a flaky puff pastry base and a silky filling, they offer a refreshing and refined option perfect for spring or summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Strawberry custard tartlets with mint are the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crisp puff pastry provides a satisfying base for the creamy custard, while the fresh strawberries add a natural sweetness and vibrant color. The touch of mint enhances the freshness, making these tartlets a delightfully refreshing dessert. They’re also visually impressive, making them an excellent choice for entertaining.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

puff pastry, thawed
egg (for egg wash)

For the custard filling:

whole milk
heavy cream
egg yolks
granulated sugar
cornstarch
vanilla extract

For topping:

fresh strawberries, sliced
sugar
fresh mint leaves, chopped

directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a muffin tin or tartlet pans.
Roll out the puff pastry and cut into circles to fit your tartlet molds. Press the dough into the molds and prick the bottoms with a fork.
Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg.
Bake the tartlet shells for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly.
In a medium saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, milk, and cream. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens into a custard.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
Spoon the warm custard into each baked tart shell.
Arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the custard and sprinkle with sugar.
Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, until the custard is just set and the edges of the tartlets are golden.
Let the tartlets cool completely, then garnish with fresh chopped mint before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 tartlets
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 22–24 minutes
Total time: Approximately 40 minutes

Variations

Berry Medley Tartlets: Replace or combine strawberries with blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
Lemon Custard Version: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the custard for a citrus twist.
Chocolate-Custard Tartlets: Drizzle melted chocolate over the custard before adding strawberries.
Almond Puff Crust: Sprinkle a layer of ground almonds on the pastry before baking for added flavor.
Mini Tartlet Bites: Use a mini muffin pan and smaller pastry rounds for bite-sized versions.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store the cooled tartlets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: These tartlets are best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature. If desired, you can lightly warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes, but note that the custard texture may soften.

FAQs

Can I make the tartlets ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the custard and pastry shells a day in advance. Assemble and bake the tartlets shortly before serving for best texture.

Can I use a different type of fruit?

Absolutely. Berries, peaches, or kiwi are great alternatives or additions to strawberries.

What can I use if I don’t have tartlet pans?

A standard muffin tin works well as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the size of the pastry circles accordingly.

Can I make the custard without cornstarch?

Cornstarch helps thicken the custard. If unavailable, you can use flour, though the texture may vary slightly.

Should the custard be hot or cooled before filling the shells?

It should be warm but not boiling when spooned into the tartlet shells.

Can I use store-bought custard?

Yes, for a time-saving option, pre-made custard can be used, though the flavor may not be as rich as homemade.

What kind of mint works best?

Fresh spearmint or peppermint leaves both work well, depending on your taste preference.

How can I keep the pastry from getting soggy?

Ensure the shells are fully baked before adding the custard, and do not overbake after filling.

Can I freeze these tartlets?

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the custard and strawberries.

How do I prevent the strawberries from becoming too soft?

Add the strawberries just before the second bake, and avoid overbaking to maintain their freshness.

Conclusion

Strawberry custard tartlets with mint offer a delightful blend of creamy, crisp, and fruity elements that come together in a beautiful and flavorful presentation. They are ideal for spring and summer entertaining or whenever you want to serve a dessert that’s as refreshing as it is elegant.