Valentines Treats Strawberry Almond Tartlets

Name: Valentines Treats Strawberry Almond Tartlets
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 cup almond flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 egg yolk; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love creating special treats for Valentine's Day, and these Strawberry Almond Tartlets are one of my absolute favorites! With a buttery almond crust filled with luscious strawberries, each bite is a sweet delight that feels both elegant and comforting. The combination of almond and fresh fruit creates a wonderful balance of flavors that never fails to impress. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying during a cozy night in, these tartlets are a heartfelt way to celebrate love and sweetness.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:43:11.518Z

When I first made these Strawberry Almond Tartlets, I wanted to create a dessert that was both simple and delicious. I experimented with different crusts and fillings until I settled on this almond blend that complements the strawberries beautifully. The trick is to use fresh, ripe strawberries, as they bring a burst of flavor that elevates the tartlets.

One of my favorite tips is to slightly toast the almond flour in the crust. This small step enhances the nutty flavor and adds depth to the overall dish. I always find joy in baking these for my friends; they never fail to bring smiles at gatherings!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Delicate almond crust that perfectly hugs the strawberries.
A burst of fresh flavors with every bite.
Easy to prepare and a stunning dessert for any occasion.

      

Ingredient Insights

The choice of almond flour in this recipe contributes to the tartlet's delicate yet flavorful crust. Almond flour is not only gluten-free but also adds a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh strawberries. If you don't have almond flour, you can substitute it with finely ground oats or all-purpose flour; however, you may lose some of that characteristic almond essence. Be mindful that using all-purpose flour will alter the texture, giving it a denser crust.

Using fresh strawberries is key to achieving the right balance in flavor. Look for strawberries that are ripe, fragrant, and free from blemishes. For a variation, consider adding a few tablespoons of fruit preserves or sliced peaches to the filling for a twist. Additionally, the cornstarch helps thicken the strawberry juices as they bake, so don’t skip this ingredient, as it prevents the tartlets from becoming soggy.

Techniques for Perfect Tartlets

When making the almond crust, be cautious not to overwork the dough. Mixing until just combined will yield a tender crust that crisps nicely during baking. If the dough feels too crumbly, a teaspoon of cold water can be added, but do this sparingly to maintain the right texture. Press the dough gently into the tartlet pans, ensuring an even thickness for uniform baking—this will help avoid undercooked spots.

While baking, keep an eye on the crust; it should turn golden around the edges after about 10-12 minutes. If your oven has hot spots, consider rotating the tartlet pans halfway through baking. After filling with strawberries, the additional 15 minutes in the oven will make the strawberries tender and juicy while helping the crust hold its shape. The tartlet is done when they look slightly bubbling and fragrant, indicating that the filling is perfectly set.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your tartlets.

For the Almond Crust

1 cup almond flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 egg yolk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

For the Strawberry Filling

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delectable tartlets.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Make the Almond Crust

In a bowl, mix the almond flour, sugar, melted butter, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt until a dough forms. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of tartlet pans.

Bake the Crust

Bake the crusts for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let them cool slightly.

Prepare the Filling

In a separate bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice. Mix gently until the strawberries are coated.

Fill the Crusts

Spoon the strawberry mixture into the cooled almond crusts, distributing evenly.

Bake Again

Return the tartlets to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until the strawberries are soft.

Cool and Serve

Let the tartlets cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

These tartlets can be served warm or cold; enjoy them with a dollop of whipped cream!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute with your favorite fruits if strawberries aren't in season!

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Almond Tartlets can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature. If you're serving them for a special occasion, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side can elevate the dessert to a whole new level. For an added touch of elegance, sprinkle some chopped mint leaves over the top before serving; not only does it look beautiful, but it also adds a refreshing flavor contrast.

If you're planning to impress at a gathering, serve the tartlets on a beautifully arranged platters with edible flowers and some additional strawberries for color. This not only enhances visual appeal but provides guests with extra fruit to enjoy. These presentations can make your dessert feel even more luxurious—perfect for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Storage Tips

These tartlets can be made a day in advance, making them an excellent choice for busy schedules. Once cooled completely, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, consume them within 2-3 days, as the crust may soften over time due to moisture from the strawberries. If you want to prepare them well ahead of time, you can freeze the baked tartlet shells without the filling; just ensure they're well-wrapped.

To freeze, place the cooled tartlet shells on a baking sheet to harden individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply fill them with fresh strawberries and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked tartlets any time with minimal effort, simply adding a quick assembly step when you're ready to serve.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the tartlet crust ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to add the filling.

→ Are there alternatives to almond flour?

You can try using gluten-free flour blends or all-purpose flour if you're not concerned about gluten.

→ How do I store leftover tartlets?

Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the tartlets?

Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.