Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter (cold, cubed)
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2–3 tbsp cold water
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cherry pie filling or fresh cherries
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) to prepare for baking the tart shells.
- Prepare Crust Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly and sandy in texture.
- Form Dough: Slowly add 2 to 3 tablespoons of cold water, mixing gently until a dough forms that can be rolled out without sticking.
- Shape and Bake Crusts: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cutter to cut the dough, then press each shape into tart molds. Place the molds on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crusts turn a golden brown.
- Prepare Chocolate Filling: While the crusts bake, heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over low heat until just simmering. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl and stir until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth and glossy, creating a ganache.
- Assemble Tarts: Remove the baked tart shells from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Fill each tart shell with the warm chocolate ganache, then top with cherry pie filling or fresh cherries.
- Set and Serve: Let the tarts set at room temperature or chill briefly in the refrigerator to firm up before serving for cleaner slices and enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Use dark chocolate chips for a richer, deeper chocolate flavor.
- Chilling the tarts before serving helps achieve cleaner, neater slices.
- Fresh cherries can be used as an alternative to cherry pie filling for a fresher taste.
- Ensure butter is cold when cutting into flour to create a flaky crust texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French / American
- Diet: Vegetarian
