Mini Chocolate Tarts

Name: Mini Chocolate Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 tarts
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg yolk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in these delightful Mini Chocolate Tarts, perfect for any occasion. With a rich chocolate filling nestled in a buttery crust, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2025-12-21T04:25:53.436Z

These Mini Chocolate Tarts are not just a dessert; they're a celebration of chocolate! Each tart is a little piece of heaven, combining a crispy crust with a silky smooth chocolate filling. Perfect for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in, these tarts will impress anyone who takes a bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

A Perfect Bite-Sized Delight

Mini Chocolate Tarts are the quintessential dessert for chocolate lovers. These little indulgences pack a powerful punch of flavor while being perfectly portioned for any gathering. Their small size makes them ideal for parties, picnics, or simply enjoying at home. With a rich chocolate filling encased in a buttery, crumbly crust, each bite is a delightful experience that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

These tarts are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Their elegant design makes them a fantastic centerpiece for dessert tables or special occasions. You can customize them with various toppings, such as fresh berries, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of sea salt, adding an extra touch of sophistication. Whether for a birthday, wedding, or holiday celebration, Mini Chocolate Tarts are sure to impress your guests.

The Power of Chocolate and Citrus

The combination of rich chocolate and fresh orange zest in this recipe elevates the flavor profile to new heights. The vibrant orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the deep, luscious chocolate, creating a harmonious balance. This delightful contrast not only tantalizes the taste buds but also enhances the overall experience of enjoying these tarts.

Incorporating citrus into chocolate desserts is a timeless technique that many pastry chefs swear by. The acidity of the orange zest cuts through the richness of the chocolate, preventing it from becoming overwhelming. This thoughtful pairing ensures that each bite is a complex and satisfying treat, making these tarts a standout choice for any dessert lover.

Tips for Perfect Mini Tarts

To achieve the best results with your Mini Chocolate Tarts, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. This is key to creating a flaky, buttery crust that holds its shape. Additionally, don’t skip the chilling step after pressing the dough into the tart pan. This step helps to prevent the crust from shrinking during baking, ensuring that your tarts have a beautiful, uniform appearance.

When preparing the chocolate filling, use high-quality dark chocolate for the richest flavor. Look for chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content for a deep, satisfying taste. Be careful not to overheat the cream; it should just begin to simmer. This will help maintain the creamy texture of the filling, making it smooth and luscious once set.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg yolk
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Chocolate Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch of salt

Make sure to use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk until the dough comes together.

Press the dough into a tart pan and refrigerate for 15 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the tart crust for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Prepare the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Fill the Tarts

Pour the chocolate mixture into the cooled tart crusts, filling them evenly. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.

Serve

Once set, remove the tarts from the pans and serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries if desired!

Storing Your Mini Chocolate Tarts

These Mini Chocolate Tarts can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy bakers. Once set, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to prepare them in advance and focus on other aspects of your event or gathering.

If you're planning to serve them later, consider waiting to add any toppings until just before serving. Fresh fruits or whipped cream are best when added closer to serving time to maintain their freshness and visual appeal.

Perfect Pairings

Pair your Mini Chocolate Tarts with a variety of beverages to enhance the tasting experience. A rich cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine complements the chocolate beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving them with a chilled glass of milk or a refreshing herbal tea.

For those who enjoy a touch of decadence, serve these tarts alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly balances the rich chocolate filling, creating a delightful contrast that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, you can use milk chocolate, but keep in mind it will be sweeter.

→ How long can I store these tarts?

These tarts can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the crust a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.