Chocolate cream tart

Chocolate cream tart is an elegant and delicious dessert, perfect for any special occasion or simply to indulge yourself at the end of the day. This recipe combines the crunchy texture of the crust with the richness of a fine chocolate cream, offering an unforgettable tasting experience. Let’s discover together how to prepare this wonderful tart!

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 300 g flour
- 150 g cold butter (cut into cubes)
- 150 g sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Zest of one lemon

For the chocolate cream:
- 120 g sugar
- 120 g dark chocolate (70% cocoa, ideal for an intense cream)
- 50 g flour
- 30 g butter
- 500 ml milk (preferably whole for a creamier texture)
- 3 tablespoons of rum or cream liqueur (optional, but recommended for a refined taste)

Step by step to a perfect tart

1. Preparing the crust dough:
Start by making the dough. In a food processor, add the cold butter cubes along with the sugar. Mix on low speed until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. It’s important for the butter to be cold to get a crunchy crust.

Add the egg yolks one by one, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the flour mixed with the baking powder and lemon zest. Mix until you form a ball of dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Once you have the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to allow the gluten to relax, resulting in a less elastic and crunchier crust.

2. Preparing the chocolate cream:
Meanwhile, you can prepare the cream. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, flour, and grated chocolate. This combination will provide a perfect base for your cream. Place over low heat and gradually add the warm milk. Stir constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Once the cream starts to thicken, remove it from the heat and add the butter. Mix well to fully incorporate it. Then, add the rum or liqueur, one tablespoon at a time, mixing after each addition. This step will enhance the flavors of the cream. Let the cream cool.

3. Assembling the tart:
After the dough has rested, take it out of the refrigerator. Reserve a quarter of the dough for decoration and roll out the rest on a lightly floured surface. You can use parchment paper to facilitate the transfer to the pan. Line a buttered tart pan with flour.

Prick the crust with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Cover it with parchment paper and add baking beans or a weight to maintain its shape. Bake the crust in a preheated oven at 180°C for 10 minutes.

4. Filling the tart with cream:
Once the crust is baked, remove the paper and beans. Spread the cooled chocolate cream evenly over the tart base. Using a spatula, smooth the cream, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

Roll out the reserved dough and cut it into thin strips. Arrange them over the cream for an attractive decoration. These strips will not only add a pleasing appearance but also provide an extra crunchy texture.

5. Baking the tart:
Place the tart in the oven and bake for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cream has set. Once the tart is done, let it cool completely before slicing.

6. Serving:
For an elegant finish, dust powdered sugar over the tart before serving. This will not only add a beautiful visual contrast but also an extra touch of sweetness.

Useful tips:
- You can substitute dark chocolate with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk.
- If you want to add a fruity note, you can include some fresh raspberries or banana slices between the chocolate cream and the dough strips.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of chocolate cream tart contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has heart health benefits. Additionally, butter and eggs add healthy fats and proteins.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I make the tart in advance?
Yes, the tart can be prepared a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap.

- How can I avoid cracks in the chocolate cream?
Make sure to stir constantly during cooking and do not overheat the cream.

- What drinks pair well with it?
The chocolate cream tart pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or a glass of red wine, but also with a glass of warm milk.

Now you are ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious tart! Whether you enjoy it plain or with a fruit sauce, this recipe will surely become a favorite. Don’t forget to come back with your impressions and share the result! Bon appétit!