Chocolate Strawberry Tart is a decadent dessert featuring a rich chocolate ganache filling nestled in a buttery tart crust, topped with fresh strawberries. This elegant tart is perfect for special occasions or as a delightful treat for chocolate and fruit lovers alike.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Ganache Filling:

• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate (chopped)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional, for added richness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and sliced)
• Mint leaves (for garnish, optional)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)

Timing

Making Chocolate Strawberry Tart takes about 30 minutes for preparation and 25 minutes for baking, plus chilling time.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

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 and 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 cold water (1 tablespoon at a time) until the dough comes together.
5. Chill Dough: Press the dough into a tart pan (9-inch) evenly across the bottom and up the sides. Prick the bottom with a fork. Chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes.
6. Bake Crust: Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely.

Step 2: 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. Melt Chocolate: Place the chopped chocolate in a mixing bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for about 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir Until Smooth: Add the optional butter and vanilla extract, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Assemble the Tart

1. Pour Ganache: Pour the chocolate ganache into the cooled tart crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours to allow the ganache to set.

Step 4: Add Strawberries and Serve

1. Top with Strawberries: Once the ganache is set, arrange the sliced strawberries on top of the tart.
2. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with mint leaves and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
3. Slice and Enjoy: Slice the tart and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chocolate Strawberry Tart (per slice, based on 12 slices):

Nutrient	Amount per Slice
Calories	300
Protein	4g
Fat	20g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	10g

Tips for Customization

• Berry Variations: Substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate crushed nuts (like almonds or hazelnuts) into the crust for added texture.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of orange or almond extract to the ganache for a unique twist.

Conclusion

Chocolate Strawberry Tart is a stunning and delicious dessert that combines the richness of chocolate with the freshness of strawberries. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, and it’s sure to impress your guests. Enjoy this delightful recipe!