Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart

Indulge your senses with this luscious Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart, a delightful blend of creamy, sweet, and crunchy textures that come together in perfect harmony. This tart is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of fresh strawberries nestled atop a smooth cream cheese layer, all encased in a buttery crust and topped with a crunchy almond crumble. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat, this tart promises to impress with its vibrant flavors and elegant presentation.

Why This Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart Stands Out

What makes this Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart truly special is the balance of textures and flavors. The buttery crust provides a sturdy yet tender base, while the cream cheese filling offers a silky tang that beautifully complements the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries. The crumble topping, enriched with slivered almonds and a hint of cinnamon, adds a delightful crunch and warmth. Unlike other strawberry desserts, this tart combines multiple layers that each deliver a unique taste experience. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it an accessible yet impressive dessert to create.

What to Buy

• Fresh Strawberries (16 ounces / 453.59g) – Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
• Cream Cheese (16 ounces / 453.59g) – Ensure it is at room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Unsalted Butter (Cold for crust: 1/2 cup / 113.5g; Melted for crumble: 1/2 cup / 113.5g) – Use quality butter for richness.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup + 1 cup / 156.25g each) – For the crust and crumble topping.
• Powdered Sugar (Sifted: 6 tablespoons + 1 cup / 120g) – For sweetness and smooth texture.
• Granulated Sugar (1/3 cup / 66.67g) – Adds a subtle sweetness to the crumble.
• Slivered Almonds (2 tablespoons for garnish + 1/3 cup / 27g chopped for crumble) – Adds crunch and nutty flavor.
• Egg Yolk (1) – Helps bind the crust.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons total) – For aromatic sweetness.
• Baking Powder (1/4 teaspoon) – To lighten the crumble topping.
• Ground Cinnamon (1/4 teaspoon) – Adds warmth to the crumble.
• Pinch of Salt – Enhances all flavors.

Equipment & Tools

• 9-inch Tart Pan – Preferably with a removable bottom for easy serving.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining crust, filling, and crumble ingredients separately.
• Electric Mixer or Stand Mixer – To create a smooth cream cheese filling.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – For precise ingredient amounts.
• Spatula – For folding and smoothing layers.
• Food Processor or Pastry Cutter – Helpful for cutting butter into the flour for the crust (optional).
• Baking Sheet – For toasting almonds if desired.

Mastering Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart: How-To

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup (156.25g) all-purpose flour, 6 tablespoons sifted powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and sides of the tart pan. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the chilled crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans to prevent puffing. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden. Let cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces (453.59g) cream cheese until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add 1 cup (120g) sifted powdered sugar and 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract, continuing to beat until creamy. Spread this filling evenly over the cooled crust.

Step 4: Arrange the Strawberries

Rinse, hull, and halve the strawberries (quarter if very large). Arrange them neatly over the cream cheese layer, covering the surface completely for a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Prepare the Almond Crumble Topping

In a bowl, combine 1 cup (156.25g) all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup (66.67g) granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, a pinch of salt, and 1/3 cup (27g) coarsely chopped slivered almonds. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture forms clumps. Sprinkle the crumble evenly over the strawberries. Top with 2 tablespoons of whole slivered almonds for an extra crunch and pretty finish.

Step 6: Bake the Tart

Return the tart to the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the crumble is golden brown and crisp. Remove and let cool completely before slicing.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

• Add a layer of Homemade Strawberry Sauce beneath the cream cheese for extra fruity intensity.
• Mix fresh mint leaves into the cream cheese filling for a refreshing twist.
• Swap half of the slivered almonds in the crumble with chopped pistachios for a vibrant color and unique flavor.
• Incorporate a teaspoon of lemon zest into the crust or filling for a bright citrus note.

Troubles You Can Avoid

• Soggy Crust: Make sure to prebake the crust with pie weights to prevent it from becoming soggy once the filling is added.
• Runny Filling: Use full-fat cream cheese and thoroughly beat it to avoid lumps and maintain a firm texture.
• Uneven Baking: Ensure the crumble topping is spread evenly and the tart is baked at the right temperature to avoid burnt edges.
• Fruit Sliding Off: Arrange the strawberries firmly and consider chilling the tart before serving to help the layers set well.

Prep Ahead & Store

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart can be made a day in advance. After baking and cooling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight. For best texture, allow the tart to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before serving. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also prepare the crust and crumble topping separately ahead of time and assemble just before baking for a fresher finish.

Quick Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries for this tart?

Fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and flavor in this tart. If you must use frozen, thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the crust soggy.

Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, you can create a gluten-free version. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly.

How do I toast slivered almonds for the topping?

Place slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Let cool before using in the crumble.

Can I substitute the cream cheese with mascarpone?

Mascarpone can be used, but it has a higher fat content and a softer texture, which might make the filling less firm. You may want to chill the tart longer to help it set.

Explore More

• Try a twist on creamy desserts with these Apple Pie Cheesecake Bars for a cozy treat.
• If you love strawberries, the Strawberry Crunch Cake With Strawberry Drizzle is a must-bake for your collection.
• Enhance your strawberry creations by making your own Homemade Strawberry Sauce to drizzle or layer.

Bring It Home

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Crumble Tart is a showstopper dessert that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Its harmonious layers of buttery crust, smooth cream cheese filling, fresh strawberries, and crunchy almond topping make it a perfect choice for celebrations or weekend indulgences. With simple pantry staples and a handful of fresh berries, you can create a dessert that tastes as though it took hours to perfect. Bake it for your next gathering and watch it disappear in no time!

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