Chestnut and Chocolate Tart Recipe
Category: Desserts | Servings: 8
This Chestnut and Chocolate Tart is a deliciously rich dessert that combines the earthy sweetness of chestnuts with the deep, indulgent flavor of dark chocolate. A perfect treat for those who appreciate the combination of flavors that create a cozy and comforting dessert. Below are the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of making this luscious tart at home. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe will be sure to impress your friends and family with its delicate textures and incredible taste.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 380g |
| Eggs | 110g |
| Butter | 90g |
| Brown sugar | 150g |
| Fine salt | 1 pinch |
| Chestnuts | 500g |
| Brown sugar (for chestnuts) | 40g |
| Rice milk | 160g |
| Dark chocolate | 135g |
| Cow’s milk ricotta | 60g |
| Powdered sugar | to taste |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry (Frolla)
To begin, prepare the shortcrust pastry, or frolla. This can be done using a food processor, but if you prefer, you can also do it by hand as shown in the video recipe. Start by placing the brown sugar, cold butter (cut into small pieces), and a pinch of salt into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Pulse the mixture until it starts to come together.
Next, add the eggs to the bowl and pulse again until the mixture is well incorporated. Gradually add the flour, continuing to work the dough for about 3 minutes. Once the dough is smooth and uniform, transfer it to a clean surface or a worktop and shape it into a flat disc. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Chestnuts
While the dough chills, prepare the chestnuts. First, cook them by boiling them in water until they soften. Once cooked, drain them and allow them to cool slightly. Peel the chestnuts, removing both the outer shell and the thin skin underneath. You should end up with around 400g of peeled chestnuts.
Once peeled, place the chestnuts in a food processor and pulse until they are coarsely chopped. This will give the filling a nice texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Chestnut Cream Filling
Now it’s time to make the chestnut filling. In a small saucepan, combine the rice milk and brown sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the chopped chestnuts and mix to combine. Continue to stir the mixture until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
Next, add the ricotta cheese and whisk until fully incorporated. Once the cream is smooth, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly before placing it in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to chill and set.
Step 4: Assemble the Tart
Once the pastry dough has chilled, divide it into two portions: one slightly larger than the other. Roll out the larger portion of dough on a lightly floured surface to about 4-5mm thickness. Use this to line the base of a 20cm tart pan. Press the dough into the corners and trim the excess with a knife to create a neat edge.
Spoon the chestnut cream filling into the tart shell, spreading it evenly across the surface.
Step 5: Top the Tart
Roll out the remaining dough to the same thickness (4-5mm). Lay it over the filled tart, trimming the edges to match the size of the pan. Using a pastry scraper, gently press the edges together to seal the top and bottom layers of dough. Use your fingers to crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
Step 6: Bake the Tart
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and place the tart on the middle rack. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. Keep an eye on the tart as it bakes, and if the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once the tart is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool completely. After cooling, dust the top of the tart with powdered sugar for a final touch of sweetness and elegance.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the tart into 8 generous pieces and serve. The chestnut and chocolate tart is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special holiday celebration. The rich combination of chestnuts and dark chocolate will delight your taste buds and leave everyone asking for more.
This recipe not only offers a mouthwatering flavor but also highlights the versatility of chestnuts, a traditional ingredient often overlooked in desserts. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving something delicious, this chestnut and chocolate tart is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Enjoy baking and savoring every bite of this delightful tart!
