Chocolate Raspberry Tartlets are delightful mini desserts that combine a rich chocolate ganache filling with fresh raspberries in a buttery tart shell. These elegant treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence any time of year.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Chocolate Ganache Filling:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 ounces semisweet chocolate (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish:

• Fresh raspberries
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Mint leaves (optional, for decoration)

Timing

Making Chocolate Raspberry Tartlets takes about 30 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking, plus chilling time.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shells

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Egg Yolk and Water: Stir in the egg yolk and enough ice water (1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough comes together.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Bake the Tart Shells

1. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thick. Cut into circles to fit your tartlet pans (about 3 inches in diameter).
2. Press into Pans: Gently press the dough circles into the tartlet pans. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer.
2. Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the chopped semisweet chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth.
3. Add Butter and Vanilla: Stir in the softened butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets

1. Fill Tart Shells: Once the tart shells are completely cool, pour the chocolate ganache into each shell, filling them almost to the top.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the filled tartlets for at least 1 hour to set the ganache.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Before serving, top each tartlet with fresh raspberries and dust with powdered sugar. Add mint leaves for an extra touch if desired.
2. Enjoy: Serve chilled or at room temperature and enjoy these delicious chocolate raspberry tartlets!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chocolate Raspberry Tartlets (per tartlet, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	220
Protein	3g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	8g

Tips for Customization

• Fruit Variations: Substitute raspberries with other berries like strawberries or blueberries for a different flavor.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of raspberry liqueur to the ganache for an extra kick.
• Nut Crust: For a different texture, consider using ground nuts (like almonds) in the tart shell instead of some of the flour.

Conclusion

Chocolate Raspberry Tartlets are a decadent and visually stunning dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the tartness of fresh raspberries. They are perfect for any celebration or as a special treat to enjoy at home. Enjoy this delightful recipe!