Chocolate tart with cream cheese

Chocolate and cream cheese tart - a decadent delicacy, perfect for any special occasion or simply to indulge yourself. This recipe harmoniously combines the crunchy texture of the cocoa base with the creaminess of the cheese and the rich chocolate glaze, creating a dessert that not only looks good but also delights the taste buds. Moreover, it is a simple, accessible recipe that you can easily prepare, even if you are a beginner in the kitchen. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours (approximately)
Total: 2 hours 50 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 servings

Ingredients

For the base:
- 150 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 100 g sugar (preferably powdered, for a fine texture)
- 1 egg (preferably organic, for better taste)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- a pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons dark cocoa (high quality, for an intense flavor)
- 300 g flour (type 000, for cakes)

For the cream:
- 225 g cream cheese (or another creamy cheese)
- 200 g sweetened condensed milk (for balanced sweetness)
- 1 packet of whipped cream stabilizer (optional, for a firmer texture)

For the glaze:
- 200 g chocolate (dark or milk, according to preference)
- 250 ml heavy cream (with high fat content for good consistency)

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the base
1. In a large bowl, mix flour, cocoa, powdered sugar, baking powder, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. This mixture will form the savory base of the tart.
2. Add the egg and soft butter. Using your hands or a mixer, knead the dough until it becomes compact and no longer sticks to your hands. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
3. Spread the dough in the tart pan, making sure to raise the edges to form a border. This will help keep the filling inside.
4. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
5. Cover with a piece of parchment paper and place a weight on top (such as a pot or beans). Bake in a preheated oven at medium heat (180°C) for 15-20 minutes.
6. Once the base is baked, let it cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Preparing the cream
1. In a bowl, blend the cheese with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. This step is essential for achieving a uniform texture.
2. Add the condensed milk and continue blending until the ingredients are well integrated. If the cream seems too soft, add a packet of whipped cream stabilizer and mix again to improve the consistency.
3. Pour the obtained cream over the cooled base and level the surface with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour to set.

Step 3: Preparing the glaze
1. In a small saucepan, melt the broken chocolate in small pieces together with the heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth. Bring the mixture close to boiling, then remove from heat.
2. Let the glaze cool slightly, then pour it evenly over the cream cheese. This layer of chocolate will add richness and a perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
3. Place the tart back in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours until the glaze sets.

Step 4: Serving
1. Once the glaze is well set, the tart can be removed from the pan and sliced. Use a warm knife to cut the portions for clean cuts.
2. Serving suggestion: Garnish each portion with some fresh fruit (e.g., raspberries or strawberries), which not only looks great but also brings a refreshing contrast to the decadent chocolate.

Practical tips
- Choosing chocolate: Opt for high-quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for a rich and flavorful glaze.
- Seasonal fruits: You can add seasonal fruits or toasted nuts on top for an extra texture and flavor.
- Dairy-free version: If you want to make a vegan version, try using vegan butter and cheese and replace the condensed milk with sweetened plant-based milk.

Nutritional benefits
This chocolate and cream cheese tart is rich in calcium due to the cheese, and dark chocolate brings antioxidants and may contribute to cardiovascular health. Of course, it is a delicacy and should be consumed in moderation, but it can be a better choice than other more processed desserts.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other types of cheese?: Yes, you can experiment with mascarpone or ricotta cheese for different textures.
- How long can the tart be stored?: Decorated and covered, the tart can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Can I freeze it?: It is recommended to freeze only the tart without the glaze, as the chocolate may not have the same texture after thawing.

We conclude with a personal note: every tart we make brings with it pleasant memories and moments of joy shared with loved ones. So, don't hesitate to prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself. Enjoy!