Chocolate Tart Recipe
If you’re searching for something to satisfy both your sweet tooth and your inner chocoholic, this Chocolate Tart is your ticket to bliss. Imagine a buttery crumb crust embracing a silky, rich chocolate ganache, all coming together in a dessert that’s equal parts stunning and unbelievably simple. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or an ordinary Tuesday night craving, this tart proves that luxurious desserts don’t need to be complicated. From your first bite, you’ll understand why the Chocolate Tart has a permanent place in my personal favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chocolate Tart recipe shines with just a handful of essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in making every bite unforgettable. Their simplicity is part of the charm; together, they create pure magic!
- Graham cracker crumbs (1½ cups): These provide a crunchy, buttery foundation, but you can switch them for crushed chocolate cookies for an even deeper chocolate flavor.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Butter binds the crumb crust together and delivers irresistible richness in every slice.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Just enough sweetness to perk up the crust without letting it outshine the chocolate filling.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth ganache texture we all swoon over.
- Semisweet or bittersweet chocolate (8 oz, finely chopped): Quality chocolate makes all the difference, as it’s the heart and soul of the tart’s filling.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, room temperature): This extra touch of butter at the end gives the ganache its glossy finish and smooth richness.
- Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla beautifully rounds out the deep chocolate notes.
- Pinch of salt: Just a pinch elevates the sweetness and makes the chocolate flavor pop.
How to Make Chocolate Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Stir everything together with a fork until all the crumbs are evenly moistened, and the mixture resembles wet sand. Next, pour the mixture into a 9-inch tart pan and press it firmly along the bottom and up the sides, making sure everything is evenly packed. This base is what supports your Chocolate Tart and delivers that delightful crunch!
Step 2: Bake the Crust
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a light golden hue and a delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the crust cool completely. This will guarantee a sturdy shell that doesn’t crumble when you add the creamy filling.
Step 3: Make the Ganache Filling
In a small saucepan over medium heat, gently bring the heavy cream to a simmer. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t boil over; you just want to see bubbles forming at the edges. Once ready, pour the hot cream over the finely chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit undisturbed for 2 minutes—this allows the chocolate to soften. Then, whisk slowly from the center outward until the mixture becomes silky and smooth.
Step 4: Finish the Ganache
Stir the room temperature butter, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into your glossy ganache. This step adds even more creaminess, a subtle depth from the vanilla, and just the right balance of flavor to make the Chocolate Tart feel special every time.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill the Tart
Pour the smooth chocolate ganache into your cooled crust, using a spatula to spread it evenly. The tart will look beautifully shiny and tempting, but patience is key! Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, letting the ganache set until sliceable. Once fully chilled, you can slice and serve your masterpiece—you’re officially moments away from pure chocolate heaven.
How to Serve Chocolate Tart

Garnishes
Give your Chocolate Tart the finishing touch it deserves! A cloud of freshly whipped cream, a tumble of juicy berries, or a poetic sprinkle of flaky sea salt takes every bite to the next level. These garnishes not only add pops of color, but also bring out the tart’s depth and complexity.
Side Dishes
This tart shines solo, but pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of tangy crème fraîche creates an irresistible contrast. For an extra elegant presentation, serve with a fresh berry salad or even a drizzle of raspberry coulis; the brightness will balance out the tart’s rich, chocolatey decadence.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Chocolate Tart into an eye-catching centerpiece by dusting with powdered sugar in a pretty pattern, or decorate with chocolate curls and edible gold leaf for a special occasion. For mini indulgences, use a muffin tin to create single-serving tarts—perfect for parties or gifting. However you present it, you’re guaranteed to gather a crowd of eager dessert-lovers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, cover the Chocolate Tart tightly with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. It will stay fabulously fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it perfect for lingering late-night snacks or a next-day treat with your morning coffee.
Freezing
This Chocolate Tart freezes beautifully! Once set, wrap the entire tart or individual slices in a double layer of plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to two months. To serve, let it thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
While this tart is dreamy chilled or at room temperature, if you want a softer, meltier filling, let your slice rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Avoid microwaving—you want the ganache smooth, not separated. For a gently warm slice, a quick five minutes in a low oven will do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use milk chocolate instead of semisweet or bittersweet?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter flavor, milk chocolate is a delicious substitute. Just note that the ganache will be a bit softer, so you may want to reduce the cream by a couple of tablespoons. For best results, stick to high-quality chocolate bars rather than chocolate chips.
How can I make the tart gluten-free?
It’s easier than you think! Simply substitute the graham cracker crumbs with your favorite gluten-free cookie crumbs or gluten-free graham crackers. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice worry-free.
Is it possible to make the Chocolate Tart ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the tart benefits from being made a day ahead, as the flavors mellow and the texture becomes ultra luscious. Just keep it refrigerated and garnish right before serving. It’s a stellar make-ahead dessert for entertaining.
What’s the best way to get a clean slice?
To achieve those picture-perfect slices, use a sharp, thin-bladed knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between each cut. This helps glide through the ganache without dragging crumbs along or smudging the glossy surface.
How can I give the tart a deeper chocolate flavor?
Reach for the highest-quality chocolate you can find—one with at least 60–70% cocoa content if you prefer a truly intense, less-sweet Chocolate Tart. You can also add a tablespoon of espresso powder to the ganache to enhance the chocolate’s complexity.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited to try this Chocolate Tart as I am to share it with you! There’s something magical about a simple, elegant dessert that never fails to impress. Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, this tart is bound to become your new go-to for any chocolate craving. Gather your ingredients, dive in, and savor every decadent bite!
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Chocolate Tart Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this easy-to-make Chocolate Tart. A buttery crust filled with silky chocolate ganache, this dessert is a perfect combination of sweet and creamy.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed chocolate cookies)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press into a tart pan and bake for 8–10 minutes. Cool completely.
- Make the Filling: Heat heavy cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Whisk until smooth. Add butter, vanilla, and salt. Pour into crust.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours until set. Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Top with whipped cream, berries, or a sprinkle of sea salt for added flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free cookie crumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (filling), Baking (crust)
- Cuisine: French-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg