Tired of heavy, overly-sweet summer desserts? Say hello to your new favorite! This Strawberry Basil Tart is the perfect marriage of light, flaky pastry and the bright, unexpected flavor of strawberry-basil sauce. It’s incredibly easy to make, beautifully refreshing, and, most importantly, not overly sugary. It’s the elegant dessert you’ve been waiting for, and it comes together faster than you think. Get ready for a delicious, fresh take on classic summertime baking!
-Simply Enjoy
Strawberry Basil Tart
Description
Strawberry Basil Tart
Strawberry Basil Tart
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C / Gas Mark 6).
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Take 2 1/2 cups (590 ml) of strawberries and 1/3 cup (80 ml) of basil. Place in a food processor/blender. Blend until smooth. Set aside.
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Place puff pastry sheet on a piece of parchment paper. Lightly roll out.
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Lightly cut a thin border on each puff pastry square, making a window. Roughly 2 cm (3/4 inch) from the edge. Do not fully cut the pastry; make an impression with the knife.
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Using a fork, poke holes in the middle, avoid the edges.
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Whisk the egg in a small bowl. Using a basting brush, lightly brush the puff pastry edges with the egg. Place in the oven for 13-15 minutes.
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While the pastry is baking, put the honey and lemon juice in a sauce pan on medium-low heat. Add the strawberry basil mixture. Bring to a light boil.
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Add the sugar. Boil for 1 minute, stir occasionally. Reduce to a simmer and let simmer for 5 minutes. Let cool for 5-10 minutes.
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Next using a stand mixer or mixing bowl, place the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract into the bowl. Whisk on high until you get stiff peaks. This will take a few minutes.
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While the whipped cream is being made, cut up the remaining strawberries and basil, however you prefer them to be cut. Both will be placed on top of the whipped cream. Set aside.
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Once you remove the puff pastry from the oven, using a fork, immediately press down the center and up to the sides. Do not press down on the sides.
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Take the strawberry basil sauce and spread evenly on the puff pastry, avoid the edges.
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Next spread the whipped cream evenly over the sauce.
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Place the strawberries and chopped basil on top of the cream, however many you prefer but I recommend covering the top.
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Cut into squares, serve and enjoy!
Notes
Simple Alterations (One-for-One Substitutions)
As promised, here are simple swaps that can be made without altering the 15-step cooking instructions, allowing you to easily customize the recipe for different flavors or pantry needs.
- Fresh Berries: Swap Strawberries for an equal amount of Fresh Raspberries, Blackberries, or a Mixed Berry blend. (Note: Raspberries may require light straining if seeds are undesirable.)
- Fresh Herb: Replace Basil with Fresh Mint (for a brighter flavor) or Fresh Thyme (for a subtle, savory contrast). The amount (1/2 cup) remains the same.
- Liquid Sweetener: Use Maple Syrup or Agave Nectar instead of Honey. This is a simple 1:1 swap (2 tbsp).
- Acid: Use Lime Juice or Orange Juice instead of Lemon Juice for a slightly different citrus profile.
- Egg Wash: If you can't use an egg, brush the pastry edges with a splash of Heavy Cream/Milk or a small amount of Melted Butter to achieve a golden crust.
- Vanilla Extract: Swap for Almond Extract or Bourbon/Rum Extract for a deeper, more complex flavor in the whipped cream.
These simple alterations are a great way to start making the recipe your very own!
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