Elegant Chocolate Berry Tart

Name: Elegant Chocolate Berry Tart
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries); Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

I absolutely adore this Elegant Chocolate Berry Tart! The combination of rich chocolate and vibrant berries makes it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Every time I prepare this tart, the kitchen fills with an enchanting aroma that lures everyone in. It's perfect for celebrations or simply as a sweet indulgence for myself. Whether topped with fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, each bite is a delightful experience that balances sweetness and richness beautifully. It’s a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:10:28.975Z

When I first experimented with this Elegant Chocolate Berry Tart, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a stunning dessert. The method involved making a buttery tart crust, a silky chocolate ganache filling, and topping it with the freshest seasonal berries. I learned that allowing the ganache to set slightly before adding the berries helps to keep them from sinking, creating a perfectly layered look.

One specific detail I love is using a mix of berries for a vibrant color contrast and varied flavors. The tart has become a go-to recipe for dinner parties, and I often receive compliments on its beautiful appearance and rich taste. It's a showstopper that never fails to impress!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh berries
Gorgeous presentation that wows guests
Perfect for any celebration or a sweet night in

Understanding the Perfect Tart Crust

Achieving a flaky tart crust is all about the right balance of ingredients. The combination of all-purpose flour and powdered sugar creates a tender base with a hint of sweetness. Make sure your butter is just softened but not melted; this helps maintain the structure of the crust. Using your fingers to mix the butter with the dry ingredients until crumbly ensures minimal gluten formation, resulting in a light and crisp texture once baked.

Chilling is a crucial step in the tart crust preparation. After pressing the dough into the tart pan, refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This rest allows the gluten to relax, preventing shrinkage during baking. When you bake the crust at 350°F (175°C), keep an eye on it and remove it from the oven once you see golden edges, which usually takes about 20 minutes. A properly baked crust will have a light golden color and a firm texture.

Crafting a Luxurious Chocolate Ganache

The chocolate filling of this tart is comprised of dark chocolate and heavy cream, creating a rich and velvety ganache. I recommend using chocolate that's at least 70% cacao for a deep flavor that balances well with the sweetness of the berries. When heating the cream, be cautious not to boil it aggressively; a gentle heat allows the chocolate to melt smoothly and incorporate seamlessly, leading to that luscious, glossy finish we all desire.

After combining the ingredients, let the ganache cool for around 10 minutes before pouring it into the crust. This waiting time is essential for the ganache to thicken slightly, ensuring it'll set properly in the tart crust without spilling over. If you prefer to make this in advance, the ganache can be prepared a day ahead; just cover it with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming and refrigerate. When ready to use, gently reheat if needed to loosen it.

Ingredients

For the Tart Crust

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Filling

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

1 cup mixed fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries)
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparation Steps

Instructions

Prepare the Tart Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the egg yolk and cold water until the dough forms. Press it into a tart pan and refrigerate for 15 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the crust for 20 minutes or until golden. Allow to cool completely.

Make the Chocolate Ganache

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just boiling. Remove from heat and add the chopped dark chocolate, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and let it cool for 10 minutes before pouring it into the cooled tart crust.

Top with Berries

Once the ganache is set, arrange the fresh berries on top in a decorative pattern. You can either lay them out in rows or create a more casual scatter, depending on your preference.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the tart chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with mint leaves if desired and slice into wedges to serve.

Enjoy Your Tart!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top before serving. This adds a beautiful contrast and a delightful sweetness that complements the dark chocolate and berries.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Elegant Chocolate Berry Tart can be dressed up or down, making it versatile for any occasion. Besides using mixed berries, consider adding slices of fresh peach or kiwi for a vibrant color contrast. You can also incorporate a drizzle of white chocolate over the top for an extra touch of elegance. To elevate the flavors further, a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving brings out the richness of the chocolate beautifully.

For a twist on flavors, you could infuse the cream with a splash of orange liqueur or espresso before mixing it with the chocolate. These additions add depth and complexity, transforming the tart into something uniquely your own. Don't hesitate to experiment with different berry combinations; each offers its own sweet and tangy profile, enhancing the overall dessert experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This tart is an excellent candidate for make-ahead preparation. You can bake the crust a day in advance and store it wrapped at room temperature. The ganache can also be made the day before; just make sure to allow it to come to room temperature before pouring it into the crust. Once assembled with the berries, the tart is best enjoyed within a day or two; refrigerate it to keep everything fresh while preventing the crust from becoming soggy.

If you have leftovers, store them covered in the refrigerator. The tart can last up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the berries may lose their luster over time. If you anticipate longer storage, it's recommended to add the berries on the day of serving for that fresh, vibrant look. If you're looking to serve the tart later, consider preparing components separately and assembling just before serving to maintain the best texture and appearance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen berries instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen berries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftover tart?

Store the tart 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 the tart crust a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator.

→ What type of chocolate is best for the ganache?

I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for the best flavor.