Peach Melba Tart with Strawberries

Name: Peach Melba Tart with Strawberries
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup almond meal; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; ¼ cup powdered sugar; 1 egg yolk; 2-4 tablespoons cold water; 3 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced; 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon almond extract; Fresh mint leaves (optional); Whipped cream (optional)

Highlighted under: French Bistro

I absolutely love making this Peach Melba Tart with Strawberries for summer gatherings. Each slice is a perfect combination of juicy peaches and sweet strawberries nestled in a buttery tart shell. The freshness of the fruits paired with a hint of almond extract elevates this dessert to a new level. Whether it’s a picnic or a family dinner, this tart always steals the show, and it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Join me in creating this delightful treat that celebrates the best flavors of the season!

Created by

The Chefbenbakes Team

Last updated on 2026-02-11T14:41:27.754Z

When I first attempted this Peach Melba Tart, I was delightfully surprised by how easily it came together. The tart shell, made with a blend of butter and almond meal, has an irresistible golden crunch that perfectly complements the soft peaches. I recommend using ripe, in-season fruits for the best flavor. A dash of freshly squeezed lemon juice really brings out the sweetness!

While preparing the tart, I learned that letting it cool for a bit before serving helps the filling set slightly, giving it a beautiful slice when served. I sometimes throw on some fresh mint for an added touch of freshness, and I can't get enough of how vibrant and inviting it looks on the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Bursting with fresh fruit flavors
Buttery tart crust that melts in your mouth
A stunning centerpiece for any occasion

Understanding the Tart Shell

The tart shell is the foundation of your Peach Melba Tart, and understanding its components is vital for achieving the perfect texture. The combination of all-purpose flour and almond meal provides a buttery flavor and a hint of nuttiness, which complements the fruity filling beautifully. Make sure to keep the butter chilled, as this is crucial for creating a flaky crust. If you use room temperature butter, the crust will spread too much while baking, leading to a less appealing texture.

When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This thickness ensures that the crust bakes evenly and avoids any undercooked spots. Use a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking, and consider using a rolling pin that distributes your pressure evenly. After placing the dough into the tart pan, be sure to trim any excess carefully, leaving a slight overhang, which can be tucked inwards to create a thicker edge that holds the filling well.

Filling Techniques for Perfect Fruit

To enhance the flavors of the filling, consider choosing slightly firmer peaches, as they will hold their shape better during baking. Ripe but not overly soft peaches will give you the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. The maceration process with sugar, lemon juice, and almond extract not only draws out moisture from the fruits but also intensifies their flavors. Allowing the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes helps develop a lovely syrup that will soak into the crust, preventing it from becoming soggy.

Strawberries also benefit from this process, as they become sweeter and more flavorful. If you'd like, you can substitute other berries such as raspberries or blueberries to create a mixed berry filling different from traditional peach-melba flavors. When preparing the filling, be mindful of the fruit size; uniform slices ensure even distribution throughout the tart, making every bite delightful.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your delicious Peach Melba Tart with Strawberries:

For the Tart Shell

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup almond meal
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 egg yolk
2-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Filling

3 ripe peaches, peeled and sliced
1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon almond extract

For Garnish

Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Whipped cream (optional)

Make sure to have your ingredients measured and ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Peach Melba Tart:

Make the Tart Shell

In a large bowl, combine the flour, almond meal, and powdered sugar. Add the cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Fruit Filling

In a bowl, toss the sliced peaches and strawberries with granulated sugar, lemon juice, and almond extract. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to macerate.

Bake the Tart

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface, and place it in a tart pan. Trim the edges and prick the bottom with a fork. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool.

Assemble the Tart

Once the tart shell is cooled, arrange the macerated fruit mixture on top. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serve

Garnish with fresh mint leaves and whipped cream if desired. Slice and enjoy your beautiful Peach Melba Tart with Strawberries!

Enjoy every bite of this delightful tart!

Pro Tips

For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to check the measurements, as they can vary.

Making Ahead and Storage Tips

This Peach Melba Tart can be made ahead, making it an ideal choice for gatherings. You can prepare the tart shell up to a day in advance. Once baked and cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. When you're ready to serve, prepare the fruit filling and assemble the tart. The filling is best made on the day of serving to maintain the freshness of the fruit.

If you're looking to store leftover tart, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Be mindful that the texture may soften over time due to the moisture in the fruit, so it’s ideal for enjoying fresh or within the first couple of days.

Creative Serving Suggestions

For an additional layer of flavor, consider drizzling your Peach Melba Tart with a homemade berry sauce or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice before serving. This adds a vibrant touch and enhances the visual appeal of the tart. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts like toasted almonds or pistachios for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the smooth fruit filling and buttery crust.

Serving this tart with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the dessert experience. You might also consider a scoop of almond-flavored ice cream to echo the almond extract used in the tart. These additions transform a beautiful dessert into a truly memorable finale for any summer meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen peaches and strawberries?

Yes, just ensure you thaw and drain them properly before using to avoid excess moisture in the tart.

→ How long can I store the tart?

The tart is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

→ Can I make the tart shell in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tart shell a day ahead and keep it covered in the refrigerator.

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

To achieve clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it before each cut for a cleaner edge.