CHOCOLATE PEAR TART

Chocolate Pear Tart is an elegant dessert that beautifully combines the rich flavors of dark chocolate with the subtle sweetness of ripe pears. This luscious tart features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a smooth chocolate ganache, perfectly complemented by slices of tender pear that add a delightful fruitiness and visual appeal. It’s a show-stopping dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a dinner party, holiday gathering, or a special treat for yourself. Serve it warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence. This Chocolate Pear Tart is not just a feast for the eyes but also a deliciously satisfying way to enjoy the classic pairing of chocolate and fruit.

Ingredients:

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Chocolate Filling:

• 8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa), chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to toss the pears)

Instructions:

1. Make the Tart Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the egg yolk and add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Press the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch tart pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the tart pan, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom with a fork and refrigerate for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Pre-bake the Crust: Line the tart crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment. Bake for another 10 minutes until set. Let it cool.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Filling: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate, stirring until melted and smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar. Gradually add the chocolate mixture to the egg mixture, whisking until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Assemble the Tart: Arrange the sliced pears evenly over the cooled tart crust. Pour the chocolate filling over the pears, ensuring they are covered.
7. Bake the Tart: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Let the tart cool to room temperature before slicing.
8. Serve: Slice and serve the tart with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.

This Chocolate Pear Tart is a delightful dessert that will impress your guests with its sophisticated flavors and beautiful presentation. Each bite is a perfect harmony of rich chocolate and sweet, juicy pears, making it a truly indulgent treat!