Get ready to transform your dessert game with the most decadent, show-stopping treat that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This Chocolate Ganache Candy Cane Tart is not just a dessert—it's a luxurious experience that combines the rich, velvety smoothness of dark chocolate ganache with the festive crunch of candy canes. Perfect for holiday gatherings, romantic dinners, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary skills and impress even the most discerning dessert lovers.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup crushed candy canes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 pre-baked tart shell
Instructions
- Prepare your pre-baked tart shell by ensuring it is completely cooled and set on a clean, flat serving plate.
- In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar completely dissolves and mixture begins to simmer.
- Remove cream mixture from heat and add chopped dark chocolate, stirring until chocolate is completely melted and mixture is smooth and glossy.
- Whisk in unsalted butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated, creating a rich and silky ganache.
- Allow ganache to cool for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent skin formation and ensure even cooling.
- Carefully pour the ganache into the pre-baked tart shell, ensuring an even distribution and smooth surface.
- Refrigerate the tart for approximately 30 minutes to allow ganache to set and firm up.
- Before serving, generously sprinkle crushed candy canes over the top of the tart, creating a festive and crunchy decoration.
- Slice and serve chilled, garnishing each piece with additional crushed candy canes if desired.
Tips
- Chocolate Quality Matters: Use high-quality dark chocolate for the most luxurious ganache. The better the chocolate, the more incredible your tart will taste.
- Temperature Control: Allow your ganache to cool slightly before pouring to prevent cracking and ensure a smooth, glossy finish.
- Candy Cane Crushing Technique: Place candy canes in a sealed plastic bag and crush with a rolling pin for uniform, fine pieces that distribute evenly.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This tart can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for stress-free entertaining.
- Serving Tip: Let the tart sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before serving to soften the ganache slightly and enhance its rich flavor.
- Garnish Creatively: Consider adding a drizzle of white chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt to complement the candy cane's peppermint flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 80mg
