Strawberry Coconut Tarts

Strawberry Coconut Tarts are the perfect mini dessert to brighten any party table. With a rich coconut filling and sweet strawberry jam nestled in crisp tart shells, these treats are as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, afternoon tea, or holiday gathering, this quick and easy recipe is a go-to crowd-pleaser that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish.

ingredients

½ cup salted butter, softened
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup strawberry jam
12 frozen tart shells, thawed

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350℉ (175℃).
2. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, sugar, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
3. Stir in the shredded sweetened coconut and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Arrange the thawed tart shells on a baking sheet.
5. Spoon 1 teaspoon of strawberry jam into each tart shell.
6. Top each with 1 tablespoon of the coconut mixture.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.

serving and storage tips

Serve the tarts at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with tea, coffee, or a light fruit salad. These bite-sized desserts are perfect for parties, brunches, or as a sweet afternoon snack.

To store, place the cooled tarts in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the tarts in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

variations

raspberry coconut tarts
Swap the strawberry jam with raspberry jam for a tart, fruity twist. The combination of sweet coconut and tangy raspberry creates a vibrant flavor contrast.

lemon coconut tarts
Use lemon curd instead of jam to add a bright citrus note. The rich coconut topping pairs beautifully with the zing of lemon, making these ideal for spring or summer gatherings.

chocolate coconut tarts
Replace the jam with a teaspoon of chocolate hazelnut spread for a decadent version. The chocolate and coconut combo offers a rich, dessert-like experience similar to a candy bar.

pineapple coconut tarts
Substitute strawberry jam with crushed pineapple (well-drained). This tropical variation enhances the coconut flavor and adds a juicy texture to each bite.

nutty coconut tarts
Before baking, sprinkle finely chopped pecans or almonds on top of the coconut mixture for added crunch and a hint of nuttiness that complements the sweet filling.

blueberry coconut tarts
Use blueberry preserves for a sweet, berry-forward flavor that pairs well with the coconut’s tropical richness. Perfect for summer picnics or brunch.

apricot almond coconut tarts
Spread a layer of apricot jam and top with sliced almonds before baking. The subtle sweetness of apricot and crunch of almonds make this variation both elegant and flavorful.

spiced coconut tarts
Add ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the coconut mixture for a warm, spiced flavor—great for fall gatherings or holiday parties.

FAQs

1. can i use homemade tart shells instead of frozen?
Yes, homemade tart shells work perfectly. Just be sure to pre-bake them slightly if your recipe calls for it, to avoid a soggy bottom.

2. can i use unsweetened coconut instead of sweetened?
You can, but the filling will be less sweet. Consider adding a little extra sugar to balance the flavor.

3. can i make these tarts ahead of time?
Absolutely. These tarts can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to serve.

4. do these tarts need to be refrigerated?
They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, but refrigerating them will extend their freshness up to 5 days.

5. can i freeze strawberry coconut tarts?
Yes, they freeze well. Freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a sealed bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

6. what kind of jam works best?
Strawberry jam is traditional, but any thick fruit preserve like raspberry, blueberry, or apricot will work just as well.

7. can i add other ingredients to the coconut mixture?
Yes, you can add extras like chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or citrus zest for added flavor and texture.

8. how do i prevent the tart shells from getting soggy?
Make sure your jam isn’t too runny. You can also pre-bake the shells for a few minutes before filling them to help maintain crispness.

9. are these tarts gluten-free?
They are not gluten-free if using regular tart shells. You can substitute gluten-free tart shells to make them suitable for a gluten-free diet.

10. can i double or triple the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this recipe scales easily. Just adjust ingredient quantities and ensure you have enough tart shells and baking trays.

Strawberry Coconut Tarts are a sweet and simple treat that deliver big on flavor with minimal effort. Perfectly portioned and visually appealing, they’re ideal for entertaining or enjoying as a quick homemade indulgence. With a buttery crust, fruity filling, and golden coconut topping, these mini tarts will quickly become a staple in your dessert rotation.

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