Strawberry Chocolate Tart Squares

Name: Strawberry Chocolate Tart Squares
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Highlighted under: Bakery-Style Treat Recipes

I absolutely adore making these Strawberry Chocolate Tart Squares whenever I have a sweet craving. The combination of rich chocolate and fresh strawberries creates a delightful balance of flavors. Each square is a bite-sized piece of heaven, perfect for sharing or indulging alone. The crust is buttery and crumbly while the filling offers a luscious, smooth chocolate experience. I can guarantee that these bars will become a favorite in your dessert repertoire, just as they have in mine.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-23T20:54:28.259Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Chocolate Tart Squares, I was amazed by how simple yet impressive they turned out. The key was using high-quality chocolate to create a rich filling that complemented the fresh strawberries perfectly. I learned that allowing the tart to cool completely enhances the flavors, turning each square into a decadent treat.

In my quest for the ideal texture, I discovered that chilling the squares overnight not only sets them properly but also intensifies the chocolate flavor. Watching my friends and family enjoy these squares makes the effort worthwhile, and I feel confident bringing this dessert to gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberries
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for sharing or as a personal indulgence

Crust Creations

The crust for these Strawberry Chocolate Tart Squares is crucial to achieving the right balance between crunch and tenderness. Using graham cracker crumbs gives a delightful sweetness and texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling. Ensure you're using fresh crumbs; stale ones can make for a more soggy crust. An easy way to crush them is to place them in a zip-top bag and roll over them with a rolling pin until fine. This method minimizes mess and yields a consistent texture.

After mixing your crust ingredients, be sure to press the crumb mixture firmly but evenly into the baking dish. This helps prevent it from crumbling when you cut the squares. Bake just until the edges turn a light golden brown, about 10 minutes—watch carefully, as over-baking can lead to a tougher texture. Allow the crust to cool completely before adding the chocolate filling; a hot crust can disturb the filling's consistency, leading to a less-than-perfect layer of chocolate.

Chocolate Filling Tips

The chocolate filling is the heart of the tart squares, so using high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips is imperative. When melting them with heavy cream, keep the heat at medium or lower to prevent the chocolate from seizing. Stir continuously until the mixture is fully combined and glossy; if it begins to clump or toughen, it may be a sign of overheating. If this happens, you can add a bit more warm cream to bring it back to a smooth consistency.

Adding unsweetened cocoa powder not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also deepens the color of the filling, making it visually appealing. This layer sets quite firmly, allowing you to cut the squares easily. For variation, consider substituting some of the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer taste. Make sure to adjust the amount of sugar added if using a sweeter chocolate.

Ingredients

For the Crust

1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar

For the Filling

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

Make sure to wash and slice the strawberries just before serving for freshness!

Instructions

Prepare the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar until combined. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8x8 inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and chocolate chips. Stir continuously until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and mix in cocoa powder and vanilla extract.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the chocolate filling over the cooled crust, spreading it evenly. Top with sliced strawberries, pressing them lightly into the chocolate. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.

Slice and Serve

Once set, cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the decadent flavors!

For best results, refrigerate these squares for a few hours before serving.

Pro Tips

Chilling the tart squares overnight elevates the flavor and texture for a truly delightful dessert experience.

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Chocolate Tart Squares are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a more elegant presentation, consider dusting the top with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving. Fresh mint sprigs can also add a nice color contrast and a fresh aroma. Pairing these squares with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert to a whole new level, adding creaminess that complements the flavors beautifully.

If you're hosting a gathering, cut the squares into smaller bites to allow guests to enjoy multiple desserts. They also pair wonderfully with a glass of dessert wine or a light sparkling rosé, making them perfect for special occasions. For those wanting to add a twist, you could drizzle a bit of melted white chocolate over the top for an additional flavor layer and a visually appealing contrast.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you plan to make these squares in advance, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure they are fully set before transferring them to prevent sticky surfaces. These tart squares can also be frozen for longer storage—cut them into squares and separate layers with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to enjoy; they’ll retain their creamy texture perfectly.

For a faster assembly, you can prepare the crust and filling a day ahead. Refrigerating the filling can help thicken it slightly, making it easier to pour and spread. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for a short while before spreading if it becomes too thick, as the texture should remain smooth and pourable for the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different fruits?

Absolutely! Raspberries, blueberries, or even banana slices work wonderfully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or other gluten-free alternatives for the crust.

→ What if I don't have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free version.