Brazilian Strawberry Tartlets

If you’ve never had a Brazilian Strawberry Tartlet, oh friend, you’re in for a treat. These little gems are sweet, creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of indulgent. Imagine a crisp, buttery tart shell filled with luscious vanilla cream and topped with juicy, glossy strawberries. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party, but simple enough to make “just because.” And honestly, once you take one bite, “just because” might become a regular thing.

They’re the kind of dessert that looks fancy but feels like a warm hug—sweet, vibrant, and absolutely irresistible. Trust me, whether you’re making them for guests or just for you (no judgment), these tartlets are going to steal the show.

Why You’ll Love Brazilian Strawberry Tartlets

Elegant but Effortless: These look like something out of a patisserie window, but they’re totally doable at home.

Delicate Balance of Flavors: Buttery crust, creamy custard, and fresh strawberries—each bite is pure harmony.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Birthdays, holidays, dinner parties, or just your Tuesday night treat-yourself moment.

Fresh and Fruity: Strawberries bring a bright, juicy sweetness that keeps everything light and summery.

Customizable: You can easily switch up the fruit, the glaze, or even infuse the cream with citrus zest or spices.

Ingredients in Brazilian Strawberry Tartlets

Let’s break it down—the beauty of this dessert is in its simplicity:

• Tartlet Shells: Buttery, crisp pastry shells that hold all the goodness. Use homemade shortcrust or store-bought mini tart shells if you’re short on time.
• Sweetened Condensed Milk: The base of the traditional Brazilian-style filling—thick, creamy, and sweet.
• Whole Milk: Helps create a smooth, pourable consistency for the filling.
• Egg Yolks: For richness and that custard-like texture.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the filling until it’s silky and smooth.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
• Fresh Strawberries: Juicy and vibrant, sliced or halved depending on the look you want.
• Fruit Glaze or Jam: Optional, but gives the tartlets that glossy, bakery-style finish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

1. Bake or Prepare Tartlet Shells

If using homemade dough, roll it out and press into mini tart pans. Blind bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool completely.

2. Make the Cream Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, whole milk, egg yolks, and cornstarch. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens to a pudding-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Let cool slightly.

3. Fill the Tartlets

Spoon the cream into the cooled tart shells. Smooth the tops with a spoon or offset spatula.

4. Add the Strawberries

Arrange sliced strawberries over the cream. You can fan them out in circles or layer them however you like—get artsy with it.

5. Glaze for Shine (Optional)

If you’re going for that glossy finish, brush the tops with a little warmed strawberry jam or neutral fruit glaze.

6. Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the tartlets for at least 30 minutes to set. Serve chilled and enjoy every dreamy bite.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6 tartlets
Calories per serving: 290
Total Fat: 13g

• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
  Cholesterol: 85mg
  Sodium: 90mg
  Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 25g
  Protein: 5g
  Vitamin A: 10%
  Vitamin C: 45%
  Calcium: 15%
  Iron: 6%

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

How to Serve Brazilian Strawberry Tartlets

With Coffee or Espresso: These tartlets are perfection with a rich cup of Brazilian coffee or espresso.

On a Dessert Platter: Great for tea parties, showers, or brunch. They’re small, dainty, and easy to eat with your hands.

Topped with Mint or Powdered Sugar: For a little extra flair before serving.

Alongside Other Fruit Tarts: Make a mini tart buffet with different fruits—blueberries, kiwis, or mango add beautiful variety.

Additional Tips

Don’t Skip the Chill: Giving the tartlets time to set in the fridge really helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up.

Make Ahead: You can make the tartlet shells and filling a day in advance. Assemble and top with strawberries just before serving for best freshness.

Use Ripe Strawberries: Choose strawberries that are bright red, juicy, and sweet—they’re the star here.

Glaze Smart: If using jam, warm it slightly with a splash of water for a thin, easy-to-brush glaze.

Mini Muffin Tin Hack: Don’t have tartlet pans? Use a mini muffin tin to bake small shells!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?

A1: Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, sliced kiwi, or even mango all work beautifully.

Q2: Can I make these tartlets ahead of time?

A2: Yes—assemble the day before, but add the strawberries and glaze shortly before serving to keep them fresh.

Q3: What if I don’t have tart pans?

A3: Use a mini muffin tin with cupcake liners, or buy pre-made mini tart shells from the store.

Q4: Can I use a different type of cheese or cream filling?

A4: You can substitute with pastry cream, whipped mascarpone, or even vanilla pudding for a shortcut.

Q5: Are these freezer-friendly?

A5: You can freeze the shells, but it’s best not to freeze the assembled tartlets—they don’t thaw well.

Q6: How long do they last in the fridge?

A6: Up to 3 days. Keep them covered to prevent the strawberries from drying out.

Q7: Can I make this gluten-free?

A7: Yes! Use a gluten-free shortcrust pastry or almond flour crust instead.

Q8: Do I have to glaze the strawberries?

A8: Not at all. The glaze adds shine and keeps the fruit fresh, but it’s optional.

Q9: Can I double the filling for larger tarts?

A9: Absolutely—just scale up your ingredients and use standard-size tart pans.

Q10: What pairs well with these tartlets for dessert spreads?

A10: They go great with coconut flan, brigadeiros, or light fruit sorbets for a Brazilian-inspired dessert spread.

Conclusion

Brazilian Strawberry Tartlets are sweet little bites of sunshine—bright, creamy, and bursting with fresh flavor. They’re easy enough for beginners but elegant enough to impress, and once you make them, they’ll quickly become your go-to dessert. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just craving a taste of something sweet and beautiful, these tartlets deliver every time.

Print