Parisian Chocolate Tart

Parisian Chocolate Tart Recipe - A Decadent French Dessert

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a Parisian Chocolate Tart with this delicious recipe. This classic dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

History

The Parisian Chocolate Tart, also known as Tarte au Chocolat, originated in France and has been a favorite dessert for many years. Its rich chocolate filling and buttery crust make it a popular choice for special occasions and gatherings.

Ingredients

Crust

0.5 cup confectioners' sugar
0.25 cup toasted and cooled walnuts
0.75 cup all-purpose flour
0.25 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
0.25 tsp salt
1 stick (0.5 cup) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Filling

14 oz (397 g) coarsely chopped bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
6 tbsp unsalted butter
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
0.25 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
cocoa powder for dusting

How to prepare

Put the rack in the middle of the oven.
Heat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Coat an 11-inch fluted tart pan with a removable bottom with nonstick spray.

Crust

Process the sugar and walnuts in a food processor until the nuts are finely ground.
Add the flour, cocoa, and salt; pulse to blend.
Add the butter; pulse just until the mixture comes together when pressed between your fingers.
Scatter the crumbs evenly over the bottom of the pan.
Top with plastic wrap.
Using the bottom of a small measuring cup, press the crumbs evenly over the bottom and up the sides of the pan.
Remove the plastic wrap.
Prick the dough all over with a floured fork.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until the crust looks dry and slightly puffed.
Let it cool on a wire rack while making the filling.

Filling

Stir the chocolate and butter in a saucepan over low heat until the mixture is smooth.
Remove from heat; whisk in the eggs and sugar until well blended.
Whisk in the vanilla.
Pour the filling into the warm crust.
Bake for 12 – 15 minutes until the filling is set around the edges but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool for at least 1.5 hours.
To serve, remove the pan rim and lightly dust the tart with cocoa.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
Top the tart with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a fruity twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Be careful not to overbake the tart, as it can result in a dry filling.

- Let the tart cool completely before serving to allow the filling to set properly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Parisian Chocolate Tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously decadent dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor to easily make the crust.

- Whisk the filling ingredients together until smooth for a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almonds or pecans instead of walnuts for the crust.

- Substitute dark chocolate for bittersweet or semisweet chocolate for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The Parisian Chocolate Tart can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply let it come to room temperature before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the tart with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for a beautiful finishing touch. Serve on a decorative platter for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Parisian Chocolate Tart with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee for a sophisticated dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 320 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 22g per serving

Saturated Fat: 12g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 4g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Calcium: 20mg per serving

Alergens

Contains: nuts, eggs, dairy

Summary

This Parisian Chocolate Tart is a rich and indulgent dessert that is high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.

Summary

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of a Parisian Chocolate Tart with this delicious recipe. This classic dessert is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Parisian Chocolate Tart. It was a hot summer day in Paris, and I found myself wandering the bustling streets of the city of love. As I meandered through the narrow cobblestone alleyways, the intoxicating scent of freshly baked pastries wafted through the air, tempting me to follow its delicious trail.

I followed my nose to a quaint little patisserie tucked away in a hidden corner of the city. The display case was filled with an array of delectable treats, each more tempting than the last. But it was the sight of a rich and decadent chocolate tart that caught my eye and captured my heart.

I couldn't resist the urge to try a slice of the tantalizing tart, and as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special. The smooth and velvety chocolate filling melted in my mouth, while the crisp and buttery crust provided the perfect contrast in texture.

I was determined to recreate this masterpiece in my own kitchen, so I mustered up the courage to ask the pastry chef for the recipe. To my surprise, she was more than happy to share her secrets with me, and she even offered to give me a private lesson in the art of Parisian pastry making.

I spent an entire afternoon in the patisserie's kitchen, watching in awe as the chef worked her magic with precision and finesse. She showed me how to make the perfect chocolate ganache, how to blind bake a tart shell to perfection, and how to decorate the finished tart with a delicate dusting of cocoa powder.

As I followed her instructions and tried my hand at creating my own Parisian Chocolate Tart, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The aroma of chocolate filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of that fateful day in Paris.

Over the years, I have made this recipe countless times, each time with a newfound appreciation for the art of French pastry making. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all marveled at the rich and indulgent flavors of the tart.

But it's not just the taste of the tart that keeps me coming back to this recipe. It's the memories of that summer day in Paris, the warmth of the patisserie kitchen, and the generosity of the pastry chef who shared her knowledge with me.

As I sit down to enjoy a slice of Parisian Chocolate Tart, I am transported back to that magical moment in time, when I first discovered the beauty of French cuisine. And for that, I will always be grateful.