Name: Dark Chocolate Tart Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 25 min
Cuisine: French-inspired
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, with filling removed); 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup whole milk; 8 oz bittersweet or dark chocolate (60–70%), chopped; 1 tbsp sugar (optional); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Flaky sea salt or berries for garnish (optional)

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If you’re searching for a sophisticated showstopper dessert that’s surprisingly effortless to make, this Dark Chocolate Tart is a true gem. With its deeply chocolatey, silky-smooth filling nestled in a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, every bite is pure bliss for chocoholics and casual dessert lovers alike. Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner party or just treating yourself to something special, this easy recipe promises rich flavor and beautiful presentation—no pastry chef skills required. If you love desserts that look fancy but are low-stress, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Dark Chocolate Tart.

Dark Chocolate Tart Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of everyday ingredients for this Dark Chocolate Tart, but each one plays an essential role in creating the luscious layers and bold flavors you crave. The quality and combination of these ingredients transform simple staples into something truly memorable.

Chocolate cookie crumbs: Choose a dark, crispy cookie (like Oreo, with the filling removed) for that irresistible base and bittersweet crunch.
Unsalted butter, melted: Holds your crust together while adding a rich, buttery flavor to every bite.
Heavy cream: Brings that signature, decadent silkiness to the chocolate filling.
Whole milk: Helps lighten the filling just enough, keeping the tart creamy but not too dense.
Bittersweet or dark chocolate (60–70%), chopped: This is the star! Use a high-quality chocolate for the ultimate flavor payoff.
Sugar (optional): Gives the tart a touch of sweetness if your chocolate is extra intense.
Vanilla extract: A tiny bit elevates and rounds out the chocolatey flavor.
Pinch of salt: Accentuates the deep chocolate notes and keeps the tart from tasting flat.
Flaky sea salt or berries for garnish (optional): These make your finished Dark Chocolate Tart look stunning and add a burst of flavor and flair.

How to Make Dark Chocolate Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cookie Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grab a medium mixing bowl. Combine your chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter, mixing thoroughly until it resembles wet sand—this is your shortcut to a crispy, chocolatey base. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan. Give it a little extra love to make sure it’s compact. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, just until it smells toasty and sets in place. Let it cool completely while you move on to the fabulous filling.

Step 2: Make the Silky Dark Chocolate Filling

Heat the heavy cream and whole milk together in a saucepan over medium heat until the edges start to gently simmer—don’t let it boil, or the mixture can separate. Remove the pan from the heat and sprinkle in your chopped chocolate. Let it stand for a couple of minutes so the chocolate starts to melt, then whisk vigorously until the filling is smooth and glossy. If you like a slightly sweeter tart, stir in the sugar now, as well as the vanilla extract and a healthy pinch of salt. The filling should look thick, luscious, and tempting.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

Pour the warm chocolate filling into your fully cooled tart crust. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it’s perfectly level and shiny. This step is where everything comes together—and the anticipation really sets in!

Step 4: Chill Until Set

Now for the hardest part: waiting while your Dark Chocolate Tart works its magic in the fridge. Chill the assembled tart for at least three hours, or until the filling is firm and slices cleanly. You can easily make it a day ahead, which is perfect for entertaining.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving, adorn your tart with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or decorate with fresh, vibrant berries. This final touch makes your Dark Chocolate Tart truly eye-catching and irresistible.

How to Serve Dark Chocolate Tart

Garnishes

Never underestimate the power of a great garnish! A generous pinch of flaky sea salt scattered over the top brings out the complexity of the chocolate, while fresh raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries add a burst of color and sweet-tart juiciness. A dollop of lightly whipped cream is also pure bliss with every slice.

Side Dishes

The richness of Dark Chocolate Tart pairs beautifully with light accompaniments. Try serving it with a fresh fruit salad, a scoop of tangy sorbet, or even just a hot cup of coffee or espresso to balance out the decadence of the dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

Individualize your Dark Chocolate Tart by cutting it into elegant bars or mini tartlets for a buffet or party platter. For a more dramatic effect, drizzle each slice with a raspberry coulis or plate with a swipe of caramel sauce. Edible flowers or gold leaf are also fun if you’re feeling extra fancy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Dark Chocolate Tart keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Cover any leftover slices with plastic wrap or pop the whole tart (pan and all) into an airtight container. It will taste just as rich and delicious on day three as it did fresh.

Freezing

If you want to make a Dark Chocolate Tart even further in advance, you can freeze it! Place the tart (whole or in slices) on a sheet tray until solid, then wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

This tart is best served chilled or at cool room temperature. If you prefer, take it out of the refrigerator about 20 minutes before serving to soften slightly. There’s no need to reheat in the oven or microwave, which could melt the filling and change its texture.

FAQs

Can I use milk chocolate or semi-sweet chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Absolutely! Milk or semi-sweet chocolate will make the tart sweeter and milder, so feel free to experiment based on your taste. Keep in mind that you may want to adjust or omit the added sugar if using a sweeter chocolate.

Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute your favorite gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust. The rest of the ingredients in Dark Chocolate Tart are naturally gluten-free, so this swap makes it safe for everyone to enjoy!

How do I know when the tart is set and ready to serve?

The chocolate filling should be completely firm and hold its shape when you gently press or slice it. A minimum of three hours in the fridge is usually spot-on, but a little longer won’t hurt, especially if you’re serving perfect slices.

Do I have to use a tart pan with a removable bottom?

While a pan with a removable bottom makes serving a breeze, you can also use a springform pan or even a regular pie dish. Just slice and serve directly from the pan if needed—it will still look gorgeous!

What’s the best way to get really clean slices?

For picture-perfect slices, run a sharp knife under hot water, dry it, and then cut. Wipe the blade between each cut for extra sharp, neat presentation—it makes all the difference for your beautiful Dark Chocolate Tart.

Final Thoughts

This Dark Chocolate Tart is one of those special desserts that surprises you with both its simplicity and its wow factor. If you’re ready to impress at your next gathering (or just want an excuse to indulge!), give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it. Can’t wait for you to savor every blissful bite!

Dark Chocolate Tart Recipe

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4.7 from 32 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the rich decadence of this Dark Chocolate Tart. A velvety chocolate filling nestled in a buttery cookie crust, topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Crust:

1 1/4 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (such as Oreo, with filling removed)
5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Filling:

1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup whole milk
8 oz bittersweet or dark chocolate (60–70%), chopped
1 tbsp sugar (optional)
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Flaky sea salt or berries for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F.
Prepare the Crust: Mix chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter, press into a tart pan, and bake.
Make the Filling: Heat cream and milk, add chocolate, sugar, vanilla, and salt. Pour into crust.
Chill: Refrigerate for at least 3 hours until set.
Garnish and Serve: Top with sea salt or berries before serving.