My husband and I don't get into the Valentine's hype. On that note: I subscribed to UC Baking's text message when I discovered their, on point and will visit their stands every other weekend, spot at the Davis's Farmers' Market on Saturday. They sent a text about these picture perfect heart shaped tarts. I sent it to my husband and he was able to snag a whipped chocolate ganache and strawberries and cream. When I say my heart sang a song and this ray of light hit the spectacular tarts, it happened (yes. I turned the lights on). I wasn't fully convinced yet. I have, time and time again, been disappointed by the flavor although the presentation was intricately made to be too perfect to eat.
I'm not a big chocolate fan so that was the first one I tried. Well, the chocolate was rich but balanced perfectly with the perfect amount of caramel and the pastry that held everything together. I made coffee to reach a different level of richness and bold flavor.
The strawberry... I was so thankful I was sitting down. The way my spoon cut through the ganache, the subtle sweet paired soooo well with the white chocolate curls and the strawberry mousse on top of the compote. There were so many textures. It wasn't pudding. It wasn't grainy. It was a beautiful orchestrated symphony of flavors and texture.
I know that Valentine's Day is one of the Hallmark celebrations that can lead to lover's quarrel but it has never reached my household. Until February 14, 2026 when these tarts entered my house. I was fending off my husband and my son. Needless to say, get some before they leave for the season. read more