Mini Chocolate Tarts

Name: Mini Chocolate Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 tarts
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2-3 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These Mini Chocolate Tarts are a delightful treat, perfect for any chocolate lover. Each tart features a rich, velvety chocolate filling nestled in a buttery crust, making them an irresistible dessert option.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-23T04:33:33.839Z

Indulge in the decadence of these Mini Chocolate Tarts, perfect for parties, celebrations, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. The delicate crust combined with the rich chocolate filling creates a heavenly experience with every bite.

        Why You'll Love These Mini Chocolate Tarts
        Decadently rich chocolate filling that satisfies cravings
Buttery, flaky crust that complements the filling perfectly
Perfectly sized for individual servings, making them great for sharing

      

A Chocolate Lover's Dream

If you have a sweet tooth, these Mini Chocolate Tarts will quickly become your go-to dessert. The combination of rich, semi-sweet chocolate and a smooth, creamy filling creates an indulgent experience that you won't want to miss. Each bite offers a satisfying richness that will leave you craving more. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, these tarts are the perfect choice for any chocolate lover.

The versatility of this recipe is another reason you'll adore these Mini Chocolate Tarts. You can easily customize the filling by incorporating different flavors or toppings, such as a sprinkle of sea salt, fresh berries, or even a drizzle of caramel. This adaptability allows you to create a dessert that suits any palate and occasion, making it a truly delightful addition to your dessert repertoire.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Mini Chocolate Tarts are not only delicious but also visually appealing. Their elegant presentation makes them an ideal dessert for gatherings, from casual family dinners to formal celebrations like weddings or anniversaries. You can serve them on a beautiful platter, allowing guests to indulge in these charming little treats, which are sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.

Moreover, their individual sizes make them a convenient option for entertaining. No need for slicing or messy serving; each guest can simply grab a tart and enjoy it at their leisure. This ease of serving, combined with their delectable taste, ensures that these tarts will be a hit at any event, leaving your guests raving about your baking skills.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Mini Chocolate Tarts turn out perfectly, pay attention to the temperature of your ingredients. Using cold butter for the crust will help create a flaky texture, while allowing the chocolate filling to cool slightly before pouring it into the shells will prevent the crust from becoming soggy. These small tips can make a big difference in the final result, ensuring your tarts are as delicious as they are beautiful.

Don’t rush the chilling process! Allowing the crust to chill for 30 minutes before baking helps it maintain its shape in the oven, while refrigerating the filled tarts for at least two hours ensures a perfectly set filling. Patience is key to achieving that ideal texture and flavor that will leave everyone asking for your recipe.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting to ensure even mixing.

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough comes together. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Bake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and cut into circles to fit a muffin tin. Press the dough into the tin and bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool.

Make the Chocolate Filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and salt.

Assemble the Tarts

Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled tart shells. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set before serving.

For best results, let the tarts sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften the filling slightly.

Serving Suggestions

These Mini Chocolate Tarts are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further with a few serving suggestions. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side to enhance the chocolate experience. Fresh fruit, such as raspberries or strawberries, can also add a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate, making for a balanced dessert.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some chocolate shavings or edible gold dust over the tarts just before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also a touch of luxury, perfect for special occasions. Pairing the tarts with a strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine can also create a delightful tasting experience.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), storing your Mini Chocolate Tarts is easy. Simply place them in an airtight container and keep them refrigerated. They can last for up to three days, but be sure to enjoy them within this timeframe for the best taste and texture. The chocolate filling may firm up a bit more as they sit, but they will still be delicious.

For longer storage, you can freeze the tart shells before filling them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to serve, simply thaw the shells, prepare the chocolate filling, and assemble the tarts for a quick and impressive dessert.

Variations to Try

While the classic Mini Chocolate Tart is a crowd-pleaser, experimenting with variations can lead to exciting results. Consider adding a hint of espresso or peppermint extract to the chocolate filling for a unique twist. You can also try using different types of chocolate, such as dark or white chocolate, to create different flavor profiles that cater to your preferences.

For a fun and fruity variation, mix some pureed fruit into the chocolate filling or layer fresh fruit inside the tart shells before adding the filling. This not only adds flavor but also a vibrant appearance that is sure to impress. Let your creativity shine and make these Mini Chocolate Tarts your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tarts a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What type of chocolate should I use?

Semi-sweet chocolate works best for a balanced flavor, but you can also use dark chocolate for a richer taste.

→ Can I freeze these tarts?

Yes, you can freeze the baked tart shells without the filling. Once filled, it's best to enjoy them fresh.

→ How do I know when the chocolate filling is set?

The filling should be firm to the touch but slightly soft in the center after refrigeration.