Chocolate cake

Chocolate Tart – Crostata al Cioccolato

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

When you think of a classic Italian dessert, your mind immediately drifts to the rich flavors and delicate texture of a chocolate tart. Crostata al Cioccolato is a simple yet elegant recipe that will bring a touch of happiness to any moment of the day. This tart is perfect not only for special occasions but also for enjoying a quiet afternoon with tea or coffee.

Ingredients

For the tart dough:
- 250 g flour
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 80 g sugar
- Zest of half a lemon (organic, for an intense flavor)
- 3 egg yolks
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

For the filling:
- 200 g dark chocolate (minimum 70% cocoa for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 cup of milk
- 30 g peeled almonds (optional, for added texture)
- 3-4 plain biscuits (to add crunch)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (for a more aromatic taste)

History of the Crostata

This chocolate tart has deep roots in Italian culinary tradition, often associated with family meals and celebrations. Its origins lie in the old practices of using available ingredients to create delicious desserts. Crostata al Cioccolato is a perfect combination of crisp dough and soft chocolate filling, offering an unforgettable taste experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough:
Start by sifting the flour onto a clean surface. Add the lemon zest, a pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, and butter. Use your fingers to crumble the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles wet sand. This will ensure a tender and pleasant dough.

2. Adding the Egg Yolks:
Add the sugar and egg yolks. Begin mixing with a spatula or your hands, but do not overwork the dough – you want to keep it airy. Once the ingredients are combined, form a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap.

3. Resting the Dough:
Place the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture when baking.

4. Preparing the Filling:
While the dough rests, prepare the filling. In a saucepan over medium heat, add the milk, chocolate, and sugar. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the ingredients are well combined. Allow the cream to cool slightly.

5. Rolling Out the Dough:
After 30 minutes, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 5 mm. Transfer the dough to a well-greased or floured tart pan.

6. Preparing the Tart:
Prick the dough with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking. Pour the chocolate cream over the dough, then sprinkle the peeled almonds and crushed biscuits on top for a crunchy texture.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the tart for 30 minutes, or until the dough turns golden. Wait for it to cool completely before removing it from the pan.

8. Finishing:
Once cooled, sprinkle vanilla sugar on top for an elegant and aromatic finish.

Serving Suggestions

Crostata al Cioccolato can be served plain, but you can also add a dollop of cream or vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast. Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. Additionally, a cup of espresso is the perfect companion to complete this culinary experience.

Delicious Variations

- With fruit: Add fresh strawberries or raspberries on top of the filling for a fresh taste.
- With nuts: Replace the almonds with roasted hazelnuts for a different flavor.
- With spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of rum essence to the chocolate cream for a more sophisticated taste.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Crostata al Cioccolato (approximately 1/8 of the tart) contains about 350 calories, making it an indulgent yet flavorful choice. Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and contributes to heart health, while almonds add fiber and healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, but keep in mind that the tart will be much sweeter, so you may want to reduce the sugar in the recipe.

2. How can I make the dough healthier?
You can replace part of the butter with coconut oil or use whole wheat flour for a higher fiber content.

3. How long can the tart be stored?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

Crostata al Cioccolato is not just a dessert, but a culinary experience that blends tradition with refinement. With simple preparation and accessible ingredients, you can bring a touch of Italy into your kitchen. Whether you make it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this chocolate tart will surely be appreciated by all who taste it. So, put on your apron and get ready to impress!