Mini Chocolate Tarts

Name: Mini Chocolate Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12.0
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 cold egg yolk; 2 to 4 tablespoons ice water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Heavenly Dessert Creations

These delightful Mini Chocolate Tarts are the perfect festive treat to add to your holiday baking repertoire. With a rich, velvety chocolate filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust, these tarts are not only easy to make but also irresistibly delicious. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these charming bites will satisfy any sweet tooth and impress your friends and family with their elegant presentation.

Created by

Tom

Last updated on 2025-10-27T04:24:25.452Z

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Mini Chocolate Tarts are versatile enough to be enjoyed at any event, from holiday gatherings to birthday celebrations. Their elegant presentation makes them perfect for impressing guests, while their bite-sized portion allows everyone to indulge without guilt. Whether served on a dessert table or as an after-dinner treat, these tarts are sure to be the star of the show.

These delightful tarts can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate for the filling or add a hint of spice with cinnamon or orange zest. You can even make them more festive by incorporating seasonal flavors like peppermint or eggnog during the holidays.

Make Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of Mini Chocolate Tarts is that you can make them ahead of time. The crust can be prepared, rolled out, and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days or even frozen for longer storage. Once baked, allow the tarts to cool completely before filling them with the chocolate mixture, ensuring a perfect texture every time.

After assembling, these tarts can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you plan to serve them at a later date, it's best to store the filling separately and assemble them just before serving to maintain their freshness and crispiness. This makes them an ideal choice for busy holiday seasons.

Tips for Perfecting Your Tarts

To achieve a flaky and buttery crust, be careful not to overwork the dough. Mixing just until combined ensures that the crust remains tender. Additionally, chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a flaky texture. Using ice-cold water truly helps in achieving the desired crust consistency.

When it comes to the filling, using high-quality dark chocolate makes a significant difference in flavor. Choose chocolate with a cocoa content of 60% or higher for a rich and decadent filling. Don't forget to let the filling cool slightly before pouring it into the baked crusts to prevent them from losing their shape.

Ingredients

For the 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 cold egg yolk
2 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before beginning.

Instructions

Make the crust

In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter and mix until crumbly. Mix in the egg yolk and enough ice water to form a dough. Chill for 30 minutes.

Prepare the filling

Heat the cream in a saucepan until just boiling. Remove from heat and add chopped chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth. Add sugar, vanilla, and salt.

Assemble the tarts

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut to fit your tart tins. Blind bake for 10-12 minutes. Remove weights, fill with chocolate filling, and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes.

Cool and serve

Let the tarts cool before serving. Garnish with whipped cream or berries if desired.

Enjoy your Mini Chocolate Tarts!

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Chocolate Tarts can be garnished in a variety of creative ways to enhance their look and flavor. A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a delightful contrast to the rich chocolate, while fresh berries bring a touch of brightness and acidity that complements the sweetness. Consider sprinkling some sea salt on top for a modern twist that elevates the flavor profile.

For serving, arrange the tarts on a beautiful platter and sprinkle them with a dusting of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for added elegance. You could also consider drizzling a bit of caramel or chocolate sauce over the top to make them even more decadent and visually appealing.

Pairing Ideas

Pair your Mini Chocolate Tarts with various beverages to create a delightful experience for your guests. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a rich espresso serves as a perfect companion, balancing the sweetness of the tarts while enhancing their chocolatey flavor. For a non-caffeinated option, consider serving them with a chilled glass of milk or a creamy hot chocolate.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try pairing these tarts with dessert wines? A sweet port or a late-harvest Riesling beautifully complements the richness of the chocolate, making for a truly indulgent dessert experience. Remember, the right pairing can enhance the overall enjoyment of the tarts!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate for a sweeter filling.

→ How do I store the tarts?

Store the tarts in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.