Decadent Chocolate Espresso Tart – A Luxurious Dessert for Coffee and Chocolate Lovers
If you crave a dessert that combines rich chocolate and bold espresso, this Chocolate Espresso Tart is the perfect indulgence. With a crisp, buttery crust and a silky, intense chocolate filling infused with espresso, this tart delivers a luxurious flavor experience that’s ideal for special occasions, dinner parties, or anytime you want to treat yourself.
Elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, this tart will impress both your eyes and your taste buds.
Ingredients
Serves 8–10
Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2–3 tablespoons cold water
Chocolate Espresso Filling:
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso or finely ground espresso
- 200g dark chocolate, chopped
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Whipped cream
- Cocoa powder or chocolate shavings
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 25 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Chilling time: 2–3 hours
- Total time: Approximately 3 hours 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a food processor, pulse together flour, cocoa powder, and sugar.
- Add cold butter and pulse until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add egg yolk and cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together.
- Press the dough into a 9-inch tart pan with removable bottom, ensuring even thickness.
- Prick the base with a fork and chill for 15 minutes.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until firm. Let cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Chocolate Espresso Filling
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream, milk, and espresso over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and pour over chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
- Whisk in eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until fully combined.
Step 3: Assemble and Chill
- Pour the chocolate espresso filling into the cooled tart shell.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for 2–3 hours or until set.
Step 4: Serve
- Optionally, garnish with whipped cream, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings before serving.
- Slice and enjoy this rich, indulgent tart with a cup of coffee or espresso.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve chilled for a clean slice and creamy texture.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added decadence.
- Great for dinner parties, brunches, or as a special treat after meals.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 slice, approx. 1/10 tart) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 |
| Protein | 5 grams |
| Total Fat | 22 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Sugars | 18 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 120 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Dark chocolate provides antioxidants and deep cocoa flavor.
- Espresso enhances the chocolate taste and adds a subtle bitterness to balance sweetness.
- Heavy cream and butter create a smooth, luxurious texture but increase fat content.
Tips for Perfect Chocolate Espresso Tart
- Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor.
- Ensure eggs are tempered by slightly cooling the cream before whisking to avoid curdling.
- Chill thoroughly for clean slices and set texture.
- Dust lightly with cocoa powder for a professional finish.
Variations to Try
- Add a hazelnut or almond crust for extra crunch.
- Mix in orange zest into the filling for a chocolate-orange twist.
- Top with caramel drizzle or espresso whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Use gluten-free flour in the crust for a gluten-free version.
The Chocolate Espresso Tart is a show-stopping dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the boldness of coffee in a creamy, elegant tart. Easy to assemble and customizable, it’s perfect for impressing guests or indulging in a personal treat.
With this recipe, you can enjoy a luxurious café-quality dessert right in your own kitchen.
