Summer Berry Compote Tart

Name: Summer Berry Compote Tart
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2-4 tablespoons ice water; 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1/4 cup water; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I absolutely love making this Summer Berry Compote Tart during the warmer months. The vibrant medley of fresh berries combined with a buttery tart crust creates a delightful treat that brightens any gathering. Not only is it visually stunning, but the balance of sweetness from the berries and the creamy filling is simply irresistible. As we dive into summer, this tart quickly becomes a go-to dessert that everyone raves about. It's the perfect way to showcase seasonal fruits while indulging in a deliciously satisfying dessert.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-02-04T15:33:27.318Z

During the first summer I made this tart, I experimented with an array of berries, finally landing on a combination of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries that stole the show. The tart shell is made from scratch, but I often use chilled butter to ensure a flaky texture that crumbles perfectly with each bite. The addition of a touch of vanilla enhances the flavor, making each forkful a delightful experience.

This recipe taught me the importance of balancing sweetness and acidity; the tangy berries contrast beautifully with the rich, creamy filling. I also learned that a little patience while chilling the tart before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it a standout dessert at every summer barbecue.

Why You'll Love This Tart
A vibrant mix of fresh summer berries bursting with flavor
Creamy filling that complements the crunch of the tart crust
Versatile recipe for both casual gatherings and elegant occasions

The Art of Tart Crust

Creating the perfect tart crust is crucial for a successful Summer Berry Compote Tart. The key lies in keeping the butter chilled, which ensures a flaky, tender texture. When mixing the ingredients, stop when the mixture resembles coarse crumbs; overworking the dough can lead to a dense crust. I recommend using a pastry cutter or your fingertips for a quick mix to avoid warming the butter too much.

Another essential tip is to properly chill the dough after shaping it into a disk. This not only helps the crust maintain its shape during baking but also allows the gluten to relax, which results in a tender crust. Don’t skip this step! If you're in a hurry, about 20 minutes in the freezer can work in a pinch.

Crafting the Berry Compote

The berry compote is the star of this tart, and using fresh, ripe berries is essential for the best flavor. Choose a variety, like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, to create a depth of taste; mixing different berries yields a beautiful color contrast, too. If fresh berries aren’t available, you can substitute frozen berries, but be prepared for a slightly juicier texture in the compote.

Cooking the compote requires careful attention to the heat level. A medium heat is ideal, allowing the berries to break down while releasing their juices without burning. Stir gently to maintain the shape of the berries; you want them to remain intact enough to feel their burst of freshness when you bite into the tart.

Whipping Cream to Perfection

Whipping the cream for the filling should be done carefully. Start with cold heavy cream and a chilled bowl to achieve the best volume. Beat the cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you reach soft peaks—this process usually takes around 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Stop once the peaks form; overbeating can lead to a butter-like texture, which isn’t ideal for this silky filling.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, coconut cream can be a great substitute. Refrigerate a can of full-fat coconut milk overnight, then scoop out the solid cream at the top and whip it just like you would with heavy cream. This addition not only provides a creamy texture but also adds a subtle coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with the berry compote.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Summer Berry Compote Tart:

For the Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-4 tablespoons ice water

For the Berry Compote

2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1/4 cup water

For the Cream Filling

1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor in your tart.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Summer Berry Compote Tart:

Make the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and ice water until dough forms. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prebake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough to fit a tart pan. Place it in the pan, poke with a fork, and bake for 15 minutes until golden. Let it cool.

Prepare the Berry Compote

In a saucepan, combine berries, sugar, lemon juice, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring gently until the mixture thickens. Let it cool.

Make the Cream Filling

In a bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Spread this over the cooled tart shell.

Assemble the Tart

Pour the berry compote over the cream filling, spreading it evenly. Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving.

Slice and serve the tart chilled for a refreshing dessert.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider garnishing the tart with fresh mint leaves before serving.

Storage Tips

To keep the tart fresh, store it in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to wait until just before serving to add the berry compote on top to maintain the crispness of the tart crust. If you have leftover compote, store it separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week; it also makes a delightful topping for pancakes or yogurt.

For longer storage, the tart crust can be made in advance. After baking and cooling the crust completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it at room temperature, then fill with the whipped cream and berry compote for a quick assembly.

Serving Suggestions

This tart is stunning on its own, but you can elevate it further by garnishing with fresh mint leaves or a dusting of extra powdered sugar right before serving. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.

For an added flavor twist, consider drizzling a homemade berry coulis or a light lemon glaze over the assembled tart for an extra zing. A sprinkle of crushed pistachios or almonds also adds a wonderful crunch and a nice visual contrast against the vibrant berries.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different berry combinations based on what's in season. Cherries, blackberries, and even peaches can make excellent substitutes or additions to your berry medley. Each fruit will impart its unique flavor profile and sweetness level, creating a personalized touch to your tart.

If you're looking to incorporate a bit more zing, add lemon or orange zest to the cream filling for a citrusy kick. This brightens the flavor and pairs beautifully with the sweet, juicy berries, balancing the sweetness and adding a refreshing twist to every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries for the compote?

Yes, but thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess moisture in the compote.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the tart crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart crust a day ahead and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ What's the best way to serve the tart?

Serve the tart chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.