Description
Chocolate Peanut Tart Recipe
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Ingredients:
Crust:
2 cups crushed chocolate cookies or graham crackers
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling:
1 cup heavy cream
250g (9 oz) dark chocolate, chopped
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Topping:
½ cup roasted peanuts, chopped
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Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Combine the crushed cookies and melted butter in a bowl. Mix until the texture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture evenly into a tart pan, including the sides. Chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
Heat the heavy cream in a saucepan until it starts to simmer.
Pour the hot cream over the chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Add the butter and mix until glossy.
3. Assemble the Tart:
Pour the chocolate filling into the chilled crust. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
4. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the chopped peanuts evenly over the top.
5. Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours or until set.
Slice and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for a perfect tart. First, ensure your tart pan (9-inch with a removable bottom) is ready. For the crust, use a food processor to finely crush the cookies, then pulse with the melted butter. Press the mixture firmly and evenly using the bottom of a measuring cup. Pre-bake the chilled crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8 minutes, then let it cool completely. For the filling, chop the chocolate finely for even melting. When heating the cream, watch for small bubbles around the edge—do not let it boil. After pouring the cream over the chocolate, cover the bowl for 2 minutes before stirring. Stir gently from the center outward to create a smooth ganache.
Serving Suggestions
This rich tart pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a classic touch, serve each slice with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. To elevate the presentation, drizzle individual plates with salted caramel sauce or a raspberry coulis. For a festive garnish, add a few fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving. It’s perfect as a decadent dessert for dinner parties or a special weekend treat.
How-to Summary
In brief: 1) Mix crushed cookies with melted butter and press into a tart pan. Chill. 2) Heat cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth and add butter. 3) Pour the chocolate ganache into the crust. 4) Top with chopped peanuts. 5) Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark? Yes, but the tart will be much sweeter. Reduce the cream by 2 tablespoons as milk chocolate sets softer.
How do I store leftovers? Keep the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust may soften slightly over time.
Can I make this tart nut-free? Absolutely. Simply omit the peanut topping and consider a sprinkle of cocoa nibs or crushed pretzels for crunch.
My ganache split or became grainy. How can I fix it? This happens if the cream was too hot. Try adding a tablespoon of cold cream and whisk vigorously. If it remains split, create a new emulsion by blending in a small amount of hot milk.
Can I freeze this tart? Yes, for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not pressing the crust firmly enough: This leads to a crumbly base. Press it down very firmly.
- Overheating the cream: Boiling cream can cause the chocolate to seize. Aim for a gentle simmer.
- Pouring warm filling into a warm crust: Both the crust and the filling mixture should be at room temperature or cooler to ensure proper setting.
- Under-chilling: Slicing too soon will result in a messy presentation. Ensure a full 2-hour chill, or until completely firm.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Peanut Tart is a stunning yet surprisingly simple dessert that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. The combination of a crisp chocolate crust, a luxuriously smooth ganache, and the salty crunch of peanuts creates a perfect balance in every bite. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can confidently create this show-stopping tart that is sure to impress any guest. Remember, the key lies in quality ingredients and patient chilling. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!