Oh, chocolate pecan tarts – where do I even begin? These delightful little bites of joy remind me of cozy gatherings, evenings spent with friends, and laughter that fills the room while the delicious aroma wafts through the air. I distinctly remember the first time I had a chocolate pecan tart. It was during a family holiday, and my aunt had made a batch that was so good, I couldn’t resist sneaking a slice… or two! The combination of rich chocolate and nutty pecans in a buttery crust is simply heavenly. There’s something about indulging in these tarts that feels special, almost like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Now, whether it’s a festive gathering or just a treat for yourself, these tarts are surprisingly simple to whip up and sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into the good stuff!
What’s in Chocolate Pecan Tarts?
All-Purpose Flour: The base of our tart crust, providing that delightful flaky texture. I usually grab a brand that’s unbleached for the best flavor.
Unsalted Butter: The heart of the tart crust; it adds richness and flavor. Make sure to use cold butter to get that lovely flakiness.
Granulated Sugar: Just a touch to sweeten the crust. It’s amazing how a little sugar can enhance flavors!
Pecans: These are the star of the show! Toasted pecans add a beautiful nutty flavor and delightful crunch. If you can find fresh ones, grab them – they make a world of difference!
Dark Chocolate: The richer, the better! I love using at least 70% cocoa dark chocolate for its deep taste. It balances perfectly with the sweetness of the tarts.
Heavy Cream: This creates a luscious filling, making every bite oh-so-smooth.
Eggs: They give the filling structure while also adding a bit of richness. Farm-fresh eggs are my go-to!
Is Chocolate Pecan Tarts Good for You?
Let’s be honest, while chocolate pecan tarts are certainly a treat, they do have some perks!
Pecans: These nuts are a good source of heart-healthy fats and packed with antioxidants. They might not help you with your diet, but they sure do add a delightful crunch and creamy richness!
Dark Chocolate: This indulgent ingredient is loaded with antioxidants and can even boost heart health. Plus, a little chocolate can go a long way toward satisfying your sweet tooth.
Just remember, moderation is key! These tarts are loaded with sugar and fat, so savoring one (or maybe two) every now and then is the way to go. I promise they’re worth every bite!
Ingredients
– 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup pecans, chopped
– 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Serves: 12 tarts
How to Make Chocolate Pecan Tarts?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). You want to get it nice and toasty!
2. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Press the mixture into tart pans, covering the bottoms and sides evenly. Place in the fridge for about 15 minutes to chill.
4. Bake the tart shells for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
5. While the shells are cooling, melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (or in the microwave in 30-second intervals). Stir until smooth.
6. In another bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
7. Stir the melted chocolate into the cream mixture until it’s all combined and glossy.
8. Add the chopped pecans to the chocolate filling, and mix gently.
9. Pour the pecan-chocolate mixture into the cooled tart shells, filling them almost to the top.
10. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the filling is set (but slightly jiggly in the center). Let them cool before serving.
11. Optional: top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch!
Delicious Extras for Your Tarts!
– You can experiment with different nuts! Walnuts or hazelnuts are wonderful substitutes if you’re feeling adventurous.
– Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce on top before serving for an extra layer of indulgence.
– Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience.
I just know you’re going to love these Chocolate Pecan Tarts as much as I do! There’s something so rewarding about baking something from scratch, and these little beauties are a crowd-pleaser no matter the occasion. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try! I can’t wait to hear about your baking adventures and how your tarts turn out!