Soft Chocolate Tart (Crostata Morbida al Cioccolato)
This indulgent Soft Chocolate Tart is a decadent dessert that combines the richness of both dark and milk chocolate, enhanced with a velvety ganache filling and topped with fresh berries and mint. Perfect for chocolate lovers, this tart delivers a soft, moist texture with every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply as a treat to satisfy your sweet cravings, this tart is sure to impress.
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate | 100g |
| Butter (softened) | 100g |
| Eggs | 130g |
| All-purpose flour (00 type) | 85g |
| Sugar | 80g |
| Baking powder | 5g |
| Milk chocolate | 215g |
| Fresh liquid cream (heavy cream) | 120g |
| Extra butter for greasing | As needed |
| Extra flour for dusting | As needed |
| Fresh berries (for decoration) | As needed |
| Fresh mint leaves (for decoration) | As needed |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
Start by removing the butter from the refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature. This will ensure that it incorporates smoothly into the batter later on.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate
Finely chop the dark chocolate and place it in a heatproof bowl. Melt the chocolate by gently heating it over a double boiler (a bowl placed over a pot of simmering water). Stir occasionally until it is fully melted and smooth. Once melted, add the butter (cut into small cubes) to the chocolate and stir until it has fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Whisk the Eggs and Sugar
In a separate mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is crucial as it helps to give the tart its airy texture.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Once the egg mixture is ready, slowly incorporate the melted chocolate and butter mixture. Mix gently until the two are fully combined, ensuring you don’t deflate the batter.
5. Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift the all-purpose flour and baking powder together to ensure they are well combined. Gradually add the sifted flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula until the batter is smooth and uniform.
6. Prepare the Tart Pan
Grease your tart pan with butter and lightly dust it with flour. This will ensure that the cake comes out easily once baked. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while you finish preparing the batter.
7. Bake the Tart
Pour the prepared batter into the prepared tart pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface. Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. The top should be firm and slightly cracked.
8. Cool the Tart
Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the tart onto a serving plate. Gently lift the tart pan off, allowing the cake to cool completely.
9. Make the Chocolate Ganache
While the tart is cooling, prepare the ganache. Pour the fresh cream into a saucepan and heat it over low-medium heat. Stir occasionally until the cream is just about to come to a boil. Remove the pan from heat and add the milk chocolate, stirring until it melts completely into a smooth, glossy ganache.
10. Chill the Ganache
Let the ganache cool slightly, then place it in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes. This will allow the ganache to thicken to the right consistency for pouring and spreading.
11. Assemble the Tart
Once the tart is cool and the ganache has thickened, pour the ganache into the center of the tart. Use a spatula or spoon to gently spread it into the cavity, making sure it fills evenly across the entire surface.
12. Decorate and Serve
Finish the tart by garnishing it with fresh berries (such as raspberries, strawberries, or blueberries) and a few sprigs of fresh mint. The berries add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, while the mint brings a burst of color and aroma to the dessert. Slice the tart and serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips for Success
-
Choose High-Quality Chocolate: The chocolate is the star of this tart, so make sure to use good-quality dark and milk chocolates for the best flavor.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix gently to avoid overworking the batter, which could result in a dense texture.
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Cool the Tart Completely: It’s essential to let the tart cool completely before adding the ganache, as this ensures the filling doesn’t melt into the batter.
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Flavor Variations: You can enhance the flavor of the ganache by adding a splash of vanilla extract, espresso powder, or even a tablespoon of liqueur like Grand Marnier or Chambord.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugars | 35g |
| Fat | 20g |
| Saturated Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 50mg |
This Soft Chocolate Tart is a delightful dessert for any occasion, offering a rich and creamy chocolate experience that is both decadent and comforting. Its smooth texture and flavorful ganache filling make it the ultimate treat for chocolate lovers. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert. Enjoy!
