Description
Chocolate Pomegranate Tart
A true holiday delight, this Chocolate Pomegranate Tart combines the decadence of chocolate with the tart sweetness of pomegranate. Inspired by Molly’s love for pomegranate chocolates, this tart is not just delicious but visually stunning, making it perfect for festive gatherings. The filling features a delightful pomegranate curd that brings a punch of flavor, all held together by a rich Oreo cookie crust. The addition of pomegranate ganache elevates it to a dreamy, chocolatey indulgence. Serve this beauty at your next celebration for a truly unforgettable dessert!
24 Oreo cookies
Pinch of salt
3 tbsp butter, melted
1 cup pomegranate juice
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 cup sugar
1 stick butter, diced
3 whole eggs + 2 egg yolks
1/4 cup pomegranate juice (ganache)
1/2 cup heavy cream
12 oz bittersweet chocolate
Directions:
1. Prepare the crust, make the pomegranate curd, and finish with a pomegranate ganache.
Prep Time: 3 hours
Kcal: 380 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Make the Crust: Preheat oven to 350°F. In a food processor, pulse Oreos with a pinch of salt into fine crumbs. Add melted butter and pulse until combined. Press firmly into a 9-inch tart pan. Bake for 10 minutes, then cool completely.
2. Prepare the Pomegranate Curd: In a saucepan, combine 1 cup pomegranate juice, lemon zest, lemon juice, and sugar. Simmer until reduced by half. Whisk eggs and yolks in a bowl. Slowly whisk the hot juice into the eggs. Return mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat, whisk in diced butter until smooth. Strain into the cooled crust and refrigerate for 2 hours.
3. Create the Ganache: Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Heat 1/4 cup pomegranate juice and heavy cream until simmering. Pour over chocolate, let sit for 5 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Pour over the set curd, tilting the pan to cover evenly. Chill for 1 hour until set.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled. For a stunning presentation, garnish with fresh pomegranate arils, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. Pair with a glass of sparkling wine or a bold coffee to complement the rich, tart flavors. Slice with a warm, clean knife for perfect pieces.
How-to Summary
- Process Oreos with butter for the crust, bake, and cool.
- Reduce pomegranate juice with lemon and sugar, then temper into eggs.
- Cook into a thick curd, whisk in butter, strain into crust, and chill.
- Pour hot pomegranate-cream mixture over chocolate to make ganache.
- Spread ganache over set curd and chill until firm before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this tart ahead of time? Absolutely. The tart can be assembled and refrigerated up to 2 days in advance. Add fresh garnishes just before serving.
What can I use instead of fresh pomegranate juice? High-quality, 100% pure bottled pomegranate juice works perfectly. Avoid blends with added sugars.
My curd is too runny. What happened? The curd must be cooked slowly until it thickens noticeably. If undercooked, it won’t set. Ensure it coats a spoon before removing from heat.
Can I use a different cookie for the crust? Yes. Graham crackers or chocolate wafer cookies are excellent substitutes. Use the same weight and butter ratio.
How do I store leftovers? Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The crust may soften slightly but will remain delicious.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not cooling the crust before adding the curd, which can cause it to become soggy.
- Adding hot juice too quickly to the eggs, risking scrambled eggs. Whisk constantly and pour slowly.
- Overheating the ganache, which can cause it to seize or become oily. Just simmer the cream mixture.
- Skipping the straining step for the curd, leaving behind bits of cooked egg or zest.
Conclusion
This Chocolate Pomegranate Tart is a show-stopping dessert that masterfully balances rich chocolate and vibrant fruit. While it requires careful steps, the process is straightforward and the result is profoundly rewarding. Its elegant appearance and complex flavor profile make it worthy of any special occasion. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a memorable, gourmet treat that will impress every guest at your table.