Description
This Dark Chocolate Tart features a crisp cookie crumb crust filled with a velvety dark chocolate ganache. The rich and creamy filling is perfectly balanced with a hint of sea salt and optional dulce de leche drizzle, making it an elegant dessert ideal for chocolate lovers. With a simple preparation and a short baking time for the crust, this tart is a delightful treat to serve at gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cookie Crust
- 1 1/2 cups cookie crumbs (sugar cookie, graham cracker, digestive, etc.)
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Dark Chocolate Ganache Filling
- 12 oz good quality dark chocolate (340g), finely chopped
- 8.5 oz heavy whipping cream (1 cup, 240g)
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature, broken up
Topping
- Maldon Sea Salt Flakes
- Dulce de Leche (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cookie Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a medium bowl, combine the cookie crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar until the mixture is crumbly and holds together when pressed. Firmly press the mixture into a 9-inch tart pan, starting with the sides and then the bottom. Bake for 7 to 8 minutes until set. Remove and let the crust cool completely in the pan.
- Make the Dark Chocolate Ganache Filling: Place the finely chopped dark chocolate and 4 tablespoons of room temperature butter into a large mixing bowl. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it reaches a simmer, not boiling. Immediately pour the hot cream over the chocolate and butter, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Let it stand for 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt gently.
- Combine the Ganache Smoothly: After the resting period, use a spatula to stir the chocolate and cream mixture until it is completely smooth and glossy with no lumps remaining.
- Assemble the Tart: Pour the smooth ganache filling into the cooled tart crust, spreading it evenly. Allow the tart to set at room temperature overnight or refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours until the ganache is firm.
- Finish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle Maldon Sea Salt Flakes over the ganache surface. Optionally, drizzle with dulce de leche or any other desired sauce. Serve the tart at room temperature for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- Using high-quality dark chocolate significantly enhances the richness and flavor of the ganache.
- Allowing the tart to set overnight at room temperature results in a smooth, creamy texture, but refrigeration can speed this process.
- The cookie crumb base can be varied — graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or sugar cookies all work well.
- Sprinkling sea salt flakes balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.
- The dulce de leche drizzle adds a lovely caramel note but can be omitted or substituted based on preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
