This easy strawberry pretzel tart combines a buttery, crunchy pretzel crust with a creamy whipped mascarpone filling and fresh strawberries for a delightful balance of sweet and salty. Perfect for brunch, summer gatherings, or as a refreshing dessert, this recipe adds a modern twist to the traditional Southern classic.
Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Make the Crust: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, beaten egg, melted butter, and 3 tablespoons of honey. Stir until the mixture is evenly combined. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and press it down firmly to create an even layer about ¼ inch thick. Place the crust in the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until it becomes golden and slightly crisp. Once baked, let the crust cool completely, which should take around 10–15 minutes.
Prepare the Whipped Mascarpone: In another medium bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the mascarpone cheese and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while continuing to mix until soft peaks form, which should take 2–3 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of honey and the lemon zest, stirring just enough to incorporate them evenly. Spread this whipped mascarpone mixture over the fully cooled crust.
Assemble the Tart: Evenly layer the sliced strawberries across the top of the mascarpone filling, ensuring good coverage.For a touch of added sweetness, drizzle extra honey over the strawberries. If desired, garnish the tart with chamomile flowers for a decorative and fresh finish.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the tart into portions and serve immediately. If you need to store it, refrigerate the assembled tart and consume it within one day to preserve the texture of the crust.
Notes
Make Ahead Tip: The crust can be baked up to 3 days in advance and stored at room temperature in plastic wrap. The whipped mascarpone can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and refrigerated separately.Storage: Once assembled, the tart should be consumed within 1 day as the pretzel crust will soften.Variations: Substitute mascarpone with cream cheese for a tangier flavor or add a drizzle of chocolate for a richer dessert.