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Dark Chocolate Orange Tart Recipe

4.6 from 121 reviews

This Dark Chocolate Orange Tart combines the richness of 70% cocoa dark chocolate with the bright, citrusy notes of fresh orange zest and juice, all nestled in a tender cocoa-infused tart crust. Perfectly balanced and elegant, this dessert is ideal for chocolate lovers seeking a sophisticated treat with a hint of fruity zest.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Tart Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 23 tablespoons ice water

For the Chocolate Filling:

  • 8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • Juice of 1 orange

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Tart Crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a dough forms. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Roll Out and Bake Crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Press the dough evenly into the pan and trim any excess from the edges. Prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbling. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then remove and allow to cool slightly.
  3. Prepare the Chocolate Filling: In a heatproof bowl, combine chopped dark chocolate and heavy cream. Melt gently over a double boiler or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring frequently until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Gradually stir the melted chocolate cream mixture into the egg mixture, then add vanilla extract, orange zest, and fresh orange juice. Mix well until smoothly combined.
  4. Assemble and Bake Tart: Pour the chocolate filling evenly into the pre-baked tart crust. Return the tart to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the filling is mostly set but still slightly jiggles in the center.
  5. Cool and Serve: Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Garnish with fresh orange slices or chocolate shavings if desired, and enjoy this indulgent, citrus-kissed chocolate dessert.

Notes

  • Be careful not to overmix the tart dough to keep it tender.
  • Using cold butter helps achieve a flaky crust texture.
  • If the filling cracks during baking, it’s usually due to overbaking; the slight jiggle indicates the perfect set.
  • Refrigerate the tart fully before serving to let the flavors meld and texture firm up.
  • For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream upon serving.

Keywords: Dark Chocolate Orange Tart, chocolate tart, citrus dessert, chocolate dessert, orange zest, baking, tart crust