Chocolate Ganache Tart Recipe

There’s something irresistibly decadent about a slice of chocolate ganache tart. The rich, velvety filling melts on your tongue, while the crisp, buttery crust offers the perfect contrast – a match made in dessert heaven.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe years ago while searching for a show-stopping dessert for a dinner party. It’s since become my go-to for any special occasion. Not only is it stunning to serve, but it’s also surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients and minimal effort.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a celebration, or just because you’re craving chocolate, this tart delivers every time. Let’s dive into what makes it such a beloved treat.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Ganache Tart

It’s hard not to fall in love with this chocolate ganache tart from the very first bite. Whether you’re a chocolate connoisseur or a casual dessert lover, this recipe is bound to impress.

First and foremost, it’s decadently delicious. The silky ganache filling is pure chocolate bliss, with a rich, intense flavor that’s beautifully balanced by a touch of cream. Every bite feels like a luxurious indulgence.

It’s shockingly simple to make. You only need a handful of pantry staples – no complicated techniques or fancy equipment required. If you can warm cream and stir, you can make this tart.

It’s an elegant dessert that’s perfect for entertaining. Its glossy, dark surface and neatly crimped crust look like something from a bakery window, making it ideal for dinner parties, holidays, or anytime you want to impress.

And don’t forget – it’s incredibly versatile. You can use different types of chocolate to adjust the flavor, add toppings like sea salt or berries, or even switch up the crust. This tart adapts beautifully to your taste and creativity.

Once you try it, you’ll see why this chocolate ganache tart earns rave reviews every time.

Ingredients Notes

What makes this tart truly special is how just a few carefully chosen ingredients come together to create something spectacular. Each component adds its own unique contribution to the final dish.

The crust is your buttery foundation. I usually go for a classic graham cracker crust or a chocolate cookie crust, depending on how indulgent I’m feeling. It provides just the right amount of crunch to offset the creamy filling and is so easy to press into the tart pan.

The chocolate is the star of the show. Use high-quality semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate, depending on your preference. I recommend at least 60% cacao for a rich, smooth flavor that’s not overly sweet. The better the chocolate, the better your tart will taste.

Heavy cream transforms the chocolate into silky ganache. When gently warmed and poured over chopped chocolate, it melts it perfectly, resulting in a smooth, glossy filling. Avoid boiling the cream – you want it just hot enough to melt the chocolate.

A touch of butter adds extra richness. It also helps the ganache set with a beautiful sheen and creamy texture. Just a tablespoon or two is all you need for that luxurious mouthfeel.

Optional add-ins like vanilla, espresso powder, or a splash of liqueur (like Grand Marnier or Chambord) can elevate the flavor even more. These aren’t necessary but can take your tart to the next level.

To make this tart, you’ll need a 9-inch tart pan (preferably with a removable bottom), a mixing bowl, a saucepan, and a whisk or spatula.

How To Make This Chocolate Ganache Tart

Creating this elegant dessert is much simpler than it looks. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a bakery-worthy tart in no time.

Start by making your crust. If using graham crackers or chocolate cookies, pulse them in a food processor until fine. Mix with melted butter until the texture resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your tart pan, making sure it’s compact and even. Bake for about 10 minutes at 350°F, then let it cool completely.

While the crust is cooling, prepare your ganache filling. Chop your chocolate finely and place it in a heatproof bowl. Heat your heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to simmer – don’t let it boil.

Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate and let it sit undisturbed for about 2 minutes. Then, slowly whisk from the center outward until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated.

Once your crust is cool and your ganache is ready, pour the filling into the crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top. At this point, you can sprinkle on toppings like flaky sea salt, toasted nuts, or raspberries if desired.

Chill the tart in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or until set. The ganache should be firm but creamy when sliced. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes of active prep and 2 hours of chill time. You’ll be amazed at how little work it takes to make something so impressive.

Storage Options

This tart stores beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert. Cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It maintains its silky texture and rich flavor perfectly.

For longer storage, you can freeze the tart. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the fridge, then let it come to room temperature before slicing.

If you’re storing leftovers, consider slicing the tart first and storing individual slices in airtight containers. This makes grabbing a quick dessert even easier.

To reheat (if you prefer a softer texture), warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat or the ganache may melt too much.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this chocolate ganache tart is how flexible it is. Once you’ve nailed the base recipe, you can easily tailor it to suit different tastes and occasions.

Try using different types of chocolate. Milk chocolate creates a sweeter, creamier tart, while extra-dark chocolate (70% or higher) adds bold, bittersweet intensity. You can even combine chocolates for a more complex flavor.

Change up the crust to suit your mood. Chocolate wafer cookies, Biscoff cookies, or even shortbread all work wonderfully. You can also make a traditional tart crust (pâte sucrée) if you prefer a more pastry-like texture.

Add flavor infusions to the ganache. Stir in espresso powder for a mocha twist, or a teaspoon of peppermint extract for a holiday version. A splash of bourbon or raspberry liqueur adds a grown-up touch that’s great for dinner parties.

Top it off with creative garnishes. Fresh berries, candied orange peel, whipped cream, or even edible flowers turn this tart into a show-stopper. For texture, try sprinkling with crushed nuts or cocoa nibs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with dairy-free versions, too. Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use vegan chocolate to create a plant-based option that’s just as indulgent.

This chocolate ganache tart is the kind of dessert that turns heads and earns compliments – all without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking it for a crowd or savoring a slice on your own, it’s sure to become a staple in your dessert rotation.

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