Mini Chocolate Tarts

Name: Mini Chocolate Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 tarts
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 egg yolk; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the rich, velvety goodness of these Mini Chocolate Tarts, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:45:55.354Z

These Mini Chocolate Tarts are a perfect blend of crunch and creaminess, making them a favorite dessert for chocolate lovers. The buttery tart shell is filled with a luscious chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. Serve them at parties, or enjoy them as a special treat.

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

      

The Perfect Treat for Any Occasion

Mini Chocolate Tarts are not only a delight for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. Their elegant presentation makes them an ideal choice for parties, holidays, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these tarts will impress your guests and elevate any occasion.

These tarts are incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different toppings such as fresh berries, a sprinkle of sea salt, or a dollop of whipped cream. The rich chocolate filling can also be enhanced with flavors like mint or coffee, making every batch unique and perfectly suited to your taste preferences.

A Simple Yet Impressive Dessert

Don’t let the exquisite taste of these Mini Chocolate Tarts fool you; they are surprisingly easy to make! With a short list of ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve bakery-quality results. The tart shells can be prepared in advance and filled just before serving, making them a practical choice for busy hosts.

The key to success lies in using quality ingredients. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet chocolate and fresh heavy cream for a rich and creamy filling. The addition of orange zest adds a refreshing citrus note that perfectly complements the chocolate, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your Mini Chocolate Tarts are set and ready to serve, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead dessert option. If you have any leftovers, simply cover them with plastic wrap to keep them fresh. They can be enjoyed cold, but if you prefer, let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for a softer texture.

For a stunning presentation, consider serving these tarts on a decorative platter, garnished with seasonal fruits or edible flowers. A light dusting of cocoa powder or powdered sugar can also add an appealing touch. Pair them with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a truly indulgent experience.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells

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

For the Chocolate Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange (optional)

Make sure to use quality chocolate for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Shells

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the softened butter and egg yolk, and mix until the dough comes together. Press the dough into the tartlet pans and prick the bottoms with a fork. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Let them cool.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate and butter. Stir until melted and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest if using.

Assemble the Tarts

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart shells, filling them just to the top. Allow the tarts to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours to set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once set, remove the tarts from the pans, garnish with whipped cream or fresh berries if desired, and serve chilled.

Enjoy your delicious Mini Chocolate Tarts!

Tips for Perfecting Your Tarts

To achieve the perfect tart shell, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted, as this helps create a flaky texture. When pressing the dough into the pans, make sure to evenly distribute it to avoid uneven baking. Pricking the bottoms allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess.

If you're short on time, you can use store-bought tart shells. However, the homemade version offers a freshness that elevates the overall taste. Feel free to experiment with different fillings as well; the chocolate can be swapped with fruit curds or custards for a delightful twist.

Pairing Ideas

To complement the rich chocolate flavor of these tarts, consider serving them with a side of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy textures and mild flavors will balance the intensity of the chocolate, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

For a more sophisticated pairing, serve your Mini Chocolate Tarts with a glass of port or a rich red wine. The tannins and fruity notes in the wine will enhance the chocolate flavors, making each bite even more indulgent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tarts in advance?

Yes, these tarts can be made a day ahead. Just keep them refrigerated until you're ready to serve.

→ What can I use if I don't have tartlet pans?

You can use a muffin tin as an alternative, though the tarts will be slightly larger.

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Absolutely! Dark chocolate will give a richer flavor to the filling.

→ How should I store the leftover tarts?

Store any leftover tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.