Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Ganache Tart
Highlighted under: Family Baking Recipes
I absolutely love making this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Ganache Tart for special occasions. The combination of rich chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries never fails to impress friends and family. Every time I slice into this tart, I’m greeted by layers of indulgent flavors and textures. Plus, the whole preparation is surprisingly simple! Whether for a birthday party or a romantic dinner, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and it's the perfect way to enjoy those divine strawberries.
When I first made this tart, I was amazed at how easily everything came together. I carefully blended the chocolate and cream, watching as they melded into a smooth ganache. Not only did this impress my guests, but the aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible. I learned to temper the heat when melting the chocolate, which ensured a glossy finish that made the tart look professional.
An important detail I discovered is to let the tart cool completely before adding the strawberries on top. If you rush this step, the berries can start to lose their shape and juice, which could create a soggier tart. This simple tip really elevated the final presentation and taste!
Why You Will Love This Tart
- Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh strawberry sweetness
- Elegant presentation, perfect for special occasions
- Creamy, smooth ganache that melts in your mouth
Mastering the Tart Crust
The tart crust serves as the backbone for this indulgent Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Ganache Tart, providing both texture and flavor. When mixing the butter into the dry ingredients, aim for a crumbly texture similar to coarse sand. This helps create a flaky crust when baked. Use cold butter straight from the fridge, as warmth can melt the fat, resulting in a dense rather than a tender crust.
Pressing the dough into the tart pan should be done gently but firmly; you want it to be even without overworking it. After pricking the bottom, refrigerating the crust is essential. This step helps prevent shrinkage during baking. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s cool to the touch, which typically takes about 15 minutes.
Creating Luxurious Ganache
For the ganache filling, choose high-quality dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 60% to ensure a rich flavor that complements the sweetness of the strawberries. I recommend chopping the chocolate into small, uniform pieces to facilitate even melting. Once you pour the hot cream over the chocolate, allow it to sit without stirring for at least three minutes; this resting time is crucial for achieving a smooth texture without graininess.
Incorporating butter into the ganache not only enhances the richness but also helps create a glossy finish. To achieve this, gently stir until the butter is completely melted and integrated. If the ganache looks too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a few tablespoons of warm cream until you reach your desired texture.
Final Touches and Serving Suggestions
When topping the tart with strawberries, consider arranging them in a circular pattern for an elegant look. Make sure they are dry after washing to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the ganache. For added flair, you can melt some extra chocolate and drizzle it over the berries just before serving, creating an eye-catching finish that enhances the overall presentation.
This tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, but be cautious not to wrap it tightly, as this can affect the texture of the ganache. If you want to make it a day ahead, assemble the tart but wait to add the strawberries until just before serving. This way, they remain fresh and vibrant, making your dessert look even more inviting.
Ingredients
For the Tart Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the Ganache Filling
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Topping
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Tart Crust
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and cold water until a dough forms.
Bake the Tart Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled tart crust for 20 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
Make the Ganache
In a saucepan, heat the cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a mixing bowl and let it sit for 3 minutes. Stir until smooth and add the butter, mixing until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Tart
Pour the ganache into the cooled tart shell, spreading it evenly. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes until fully firm.
Add the Strawberries
Top the tart with halved strawberries, arranging them artfully. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate shavings or sprinkles over the top for added decoration.
Serve
Slice and serve the tart chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this decadent dessert with friends and family!
Pro Tips
- For best results, use high-quality chocolate for the ganache. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the cream.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you're looking for a lighter alternative to heavy cream, you can use full-fat coconut milk for the ganache. This swap not only caters to dairy-free diets but also adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the chocolate and strawberries beautifully. Just remember to whisk it thoroughly before incorporating it with the chocolate.
For those with specific dietary restrictions, consider using a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the tart crust. Opt for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour that includes xanthan gum to help bind the crust, so it maintains its structure without crumbling.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your ganache turns out grainy, it may be that the chocolate seized up due to overheating. This can easily be fixed by warming the mixture gently over a double boiler while stirring until it becomes smooth. Keeping the cream at a simmer rather than a boil will help prevent this issue in the first place.
Should your tart crust puff up while baking, placing a piece of parchment paper over the crust and adding baking weights can help maintain its shape. This method prevents air bubbles from forming during baking, resulting in an even, flat surface ready for the luscious ganache.
Serving Variations
You can elevate your tart by serving it with a side of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. The cool creaminess complements the richness of the tart wonderfully, providing a balanced dessert experience.
For a seasonal twist, try incorporating different fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, alongside the strawberries. Mixing berry types offers not only colorful visual appeal but also a variety of flavors that enhance the overall richness of the tart, making it a delightful treat for any celebration.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate, but the tart will be sweeter. Adjust the sugar accordingly if you prefer less sweetness.
→ How can I store leftover tart?
The tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make the tart crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bake the tart crust a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store at room temperature.
→ Is there a gluten-free option for this tart?
You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Ganache Tart
I absolutely love making this Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Ganache Tart for special occasions. The combination of rich chocolate ganache and fresh strawberries never fails to impress friends and family. Every time I slice into this tart, I’m greeted by layers of indulgent flavors and textures. Plus, the whole preparation is surprisingly simple! Whether for a birthday party or a romantic dinner, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and it's the perfect way to enjoy those divine strawberries.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Family Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tart Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For the Ganache Filling
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
For Topping
- 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- Chocolate shavings or sprinkles (optional)
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in egg yolk and cold water until a dough forms. Press the dough into a tart pan and prick the bottom with a fork. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the chilled tart crust for 20 minutes, then remove and let it cool completely.
In a saucepan, heat the cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped chocolate in a mixing bowl and let it sit for 3 minutes. Stir until smooth and add the butter, mixing until fully incorporated.
Pour the ganache into the cooled tart shell, spreading it evenly. Let it set at room temperature or refrigerate for about 30 minutes until fully firm.
Top the tart with halved strawberries, arranging them artfully. Optionally, sprinkle chocolate shavings or sprinkles over the top for added decoration.
Slice and serve the tart chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this decadent dessert with friends and family!
Extra Tips
- For best results, use high-quality chocolate for the ganache. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the cream.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g