Mini Chocolate Tarts (made in a muffin pan!)

Name: Mini Chocolate Tarts (made in a muffin pan!)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 tarts
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 egg yolk; 2 tablespoons cold water; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These delightful Mini Chocolate Tarts are the perfect bite-sized dessert that will impress your guests! Made effortlessly in a muffin pan, these luscious tarts have a rich chocolate filling nestled in a flaky crust. Ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply indulging yourself, these treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Elevate your dessert game with these easy-to-make tarts that deliver big flavor in a petite package.

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2025-12-12T03:21:12.783Z

These delightful Mini Chocolate Tarts are the perfect bite-sized dessert that will impress your guests!

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Mini Chocolate Tarts are an excellent dessert to serve at celebrations, from birthday parties to holiday gatherings. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to enjoy, allowing guests to indulge without feeling overwhelmed by a large slice of cake. Moreover, the combination of the rich chocolate filling and flaky crust creates a sophisticated flavor profile that can impress even the most discerning dessert connoisseurs.

Furthermore, these tarts can be made ahead of time, saving you precious moments in the kitchen during busy event preparations. Refrigerate the tarts after filling them with chocolate for a refreshing treat. Serve them chilled for a delightful combination of creamy and crispy textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Tips for Perfect Mini Tarts

To achieve the best results with your Mini Chocolate Tarts, it’s crucial to handle the pastry dough with care. Make sure your butter is chilled before mixing it with the dry ingredients, as this helps to create a flaky crust. Additionally, be sure not to overwork the dough; mixing just until combined will yield the best texture.

When preparing the chocolate filling, use high-quality semi-sweet chocolate to enhance the overall flavor of the tarts. If you prefer a darker chocolate experience, opt for bittersweet or dark chocolate varieties. Adjusting the chocolate type can provide a personalized touch to suit your taste preferences or those of your guests.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once you have made your Mini Chocolate Tarts, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes them a fantastic make-ahead dessert option for your upcoming events. To serve, consider garnishing each tart with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra layer of flavor.

For a fun twist, experiment with different toppings. Fresh fruits like raspberries or strawberries not only add a burst of color but also complement the rich chocolate filling beautifully. You can also drizzle some caramel or raspberry sauce over the tarts for an elegant presentation that will wow your guests.

Ingredients

For the crust

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg yolk
2 tablespoons cold water

For the filling

1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to measure all ingredients accurately for the best results.

Instructions

Make the crust

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Add butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in egg yolk and cold water until the dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.

Prepare the filling

In a saucepan, heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth. Mix in vanilla and salt.

Assemble the tarts

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles to fit the muffin pan. Press the dough into each muffin cup.

Bake for 10 minutes, then fill with chocolate filling and bake for an additional 5 minutes.

Let the tarts cool before removing them from the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about Mini Chocolate Tarts is whether they can be frozen. Yes, they can! After baking, allow the tarts to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When you're ready to serve them, simply thaw in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving.

Another frequently asked question is about making the crust gluten-free. You can easily substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to follow any additional guidelines on the flour package, as gluten-free flours may behave differently in baking.

Pairing Suggestions

Mini Chocolate Tarts pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve them with a rich cup of coffee or espresso; the bitterness of the coffee contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate. For a lighter option, consider pairing the tarts with a cup of Earl Grey tea, as its floral notes enhance the chocolate flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, serve your tarts with dessert wine or port. These sweet wines can elevate the tasting experience, bringing out the nuances in the chocolate and creating a harmony of flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of chocolate?

Yes, you can use dark or milk chocolate according to your preference.