Mini Valentine Tartlets

Name: Mini Valentine Tartlets
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 tartlets
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons raspberry puree; Fresh raspberries for garnish

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Collection

I absolutely adore making these Mini Valentine Tartlets for special occasions. With their delicate crusts and luscious fillings, they are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Each bite feels like a celebration, especially when shared with loved ones. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with a hint of chocolate, makes these tartlets irresistible. Trust me, once you try them, you'll want to make them for every holiday!

Created by

Natalie Evans

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:18:47.296Z

During my last Valentine's Day, I decided to experiment with tartlets, and it was a game-changer! The buttery crust paired with a creamy chocolate filling and a hint of raspberry was pure magic. I learned that blind baking the crust is vital to get that perfect crunch. It also helps prevent sogginess, ensuring each tartlet is delightful from start to finish.

As I assembled these delicate treats, I made sure to incorporate fresh raspberries for extra flavor. This simple addition elevated the tartlets and made them a hit among friends. Remember to chill your filling before adding it to the shells for a smoother consistency.

        Why You'll Love These Tartlets
        Decadent chocolate filling that is rich yet balanced with fruity notes
Delicate crust that crumbles just right with every bite
Visually stunning, perfect for impressing guests during celebrations

      

The Importance of Chilling the Dough

Chilling the dough is crucial for creating that perfect flaky texture in the tartlet shells. When you mix the butter with the flour, the goal is to keep the butter cold. This helps develop layers as the butter melts during baking. By refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes, you allow the gluten to relax, which prevents the shells from puffing up and losing their shape while baking. If you're pressed for time, chilling for as little as 15 minutes can still yield satisfactory results, but more time often means a more tender crust.

When rolling out the dough, ensure your work surface and rolling pin are lightly floured to prevent sticking. If you notice the edges tearing while you're cutting the dough, simply patch them with scraps—this won’t affect the final product. If your dough becomes too warm and difficult to handle, place it back in the refrigerator for a few minutes before continuing.

Perfecting the Chocolate Filling

The balance of flavors in the chocolate filling is what truly makes these tartlets shine. To achieve a rich yet balanced filling, use high-quality bittersweet chocolate with a cacao percentage around 60-70%. This will allow the sweetness of the raspberry puree to shine through while giving the chocolate an intense depth. If you don't have bittersweet chocolate, semisweet can be substituted, but it may result in a sweeter filling. Just keep the sugar content in mind while mixing in the raspberry puree.

When melting the chocolate with the heated cream, do this off the heat to avoid scorching. Stirring until the mixture is completely smooth and shiny is important; any unmelted chocolate could lead to a gritty texture in your tartlets. This step should only take a few minutes, and if the mixture seems too thick, a splash more cream can help achieve a pourable consistency.

Ingredients

For the Tartlet Shells

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons raspberry puree
Fresh raspberries for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Prepare your ingredients before you begin assembling the tartlets.

Instructions

Prepare the Tartlet Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine flour and powdered sugar. Add chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and water until the dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Blind Bake the Tartlet Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut it into circles to fit mini tartlet pans. Press the dough into the pans and pierce the bottoms with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium heat until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth. Add vanilla extract and raspberry puree, mixing well.

Assemble the Tartlets

Once the tartlet shells have cooled, fill each shell with the chocolate filling. Let them chill for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator. Before serving, garnish with fresh raspberries.

These tartlets can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making them easy to prepare ahead of time.

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a splash of orange liqueur to the chocolate filling for added depth.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Valentine Tartlets are not just delicious; they can also be dressed up for presentation. For an extra special touch, dust each tartlet with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or powdered sugar just before serving. Adding a sprig of mint or a dollop of whipped cream alongside the fresh raspberries can elevate their visual appeal, making them look as delightful as they taste.

If you're serving these during a special occasion, consider pairing them with a dessert wine or sparkling beverage that complements the chocolate and raspberry flavors. A glass of port or a berry-infused sparkling water can enhance the overall tasting experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These tartlets are an excellent make-ahead option, especially for busy celebrations. You can prepare the tartlet shells up to three days in advance; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This allows you to save time on the day of your event, leaving just the filling and assembly to tackle.

The chocolate filling can also be made a day ahead. Once cooled and stirred to a glossy finish, store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Just give it a gentle reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave at a low power level before filling the tartlet shells to restore the smooth texture. Avoid letting it get too hot, as this could change the consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fillings?

Absolutely! You can use pastry cream, lemon curd, or even a nut filling for a different taste.

→ How do I prevent the tartlet shells from getting soggy?

Blind baking the shells is essential. It helps set the crust, so it stays crisp even with moist fillings.

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, the tartlet dough can be made and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before using.

→ What chocolate should I use?

Opt for high-quality bittersweet chocolate for the best flavor and smooth consistency in the filling.