Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma wafting through the kitchen as the chocolate tart cools is enough to make anyone’s mouth water! I believe in reinventing classic desserts, and this Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries is a delightful twist on the beloved Black Forest Cake. Imagine a crisp chocolate shell embracing a rich, fudgy filling seamlessly paired with luscious black cherry jam and a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Not only is this dessert a feast for the senses, but it’s also straightforward enough for any home chef to master—making it perfect for impressing your guests or enjoying a cozy evening at home. Ready to indulge in this chocolatey bliss? Let’s dive into the recipe and create something truly special! Why is this tart simply irresistible? Decadence, this Black Forest Chocolate Tart is a true celebration of flavors, merging rich chocolate and sweet cherries in every bite. Simplicity shines through as it requires only basic skills yet delivers impressive results, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Versatile and adaptable, feel free to experiment with different jams or replace mascarpone with a lighter topping. Appealing to all, it’s a dessert that leaves everyone wanting more, ideal for dinner parties or cozy nights in. If you’re craving something equally delightful, check out these Double Chocolate Peanut cookies for another irresistible treat! Black Forest Chocolate Tart Ingredients • Indulge in this dessert delight! For the Tart Shell All-purpose Flour – Provides structure to the tart shell. No need for specialized pastry flour; plain flour suffices. Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder – Enhances the chocolate flavor of the tart shell, contributing to its rich color and taste. Powdered Sugar – Adds sweetness and ensures the tart shell has a fine crumb with no gritty texture. Unsalted Butter – Cold and cubed, it creates flakiness in the dough; chilling helps develop a crisp tart shell. Eggs and Egg Yolks – Act as binding agents, enriching the flavor and contributing to the texture of the dough and filling. For the Filling Caster Sugar – Dissolves quickly in the egg mixture, preventing the risk of over-whisking. Granulated sugar can be used but may take longer. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and a fragrant aroma to the entire Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries filling. Cherry Jam – A sweet and fruity layer that complements the tart’s rich chocolate filling. Any jam can be substituted if cherry jam isn’t available. Pitted Cherries – Fresh when in season, these add juiciness; canned or jarred variants can be used if fresh are unavailable. Heavy Cream – Must have at least 30% fat content for a stable, whipped topping. For the Whipped Cream Topping Crème Fraiche – Enhances the flavor and helps stabilize whipped cream, allowing for make-ahead opportunities. Mascarpone Cheese – Adds richness and thickness to the whipped cream topping. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shell In a food processor, combine all-purpose flour, Dutch processed cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pulse in cold, cubed unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, about 10 seconds. Add one egg and blend until the dough starts to come together. Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill it in the refrigerator for 40–60 minutes. Step 2: Blind Bake the Tart Shell Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 10-inch tart tin. Carefully transfer it to the tin and trim any excess. Refrigerate for another 30 minutes to firm up. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the dough with parchment paper and fill with pie weights; bake for 20 minutes. Remove the weights and parchment, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until crisped and set. Step 3: Prepare the Filling Over a double boiler, gently melt together the chopped chocolates and cubed butter, stirring until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly. In a bowl, whisk whole eggs, an egg yolk, and caster sugar until pale and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the melted chocolate mixture, mixing until fully combined, then fold in flour and cocoa until just incorporated. Step 4: Assemble and Bake the Tart Spread a layer of cherry jam evenly over the baked chocolate tart shell. Pour the chocolate filling on top, smoothing it out. Bake the Black Forest Chocolate Tart in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the filling is set but slightly wobbly in the center. Remove from the oven and let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours. Step 5: Prepare the Whipped Cream In a mixing bowl, beat mascarpone cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract, whipping on medium speed until stiff peaks form, which takes about 3–5 minutes. This luscious cream will top your tart perfectly, adding a delightful creamy layer. Step 6: Assemble the Tart Once the tart has chilled and set, gently release it from the tart tin. Generously dollop the prepared whipped cream on top of the tart, spreading it evenly. Dust with cocoa powder for a finishing touch, and then top with fresh, pitted cherries, arranging them to your liking for a vibrant presentation. Expert Tips for Black Forest Chocolate Tart Dough Handling: Avoid overworking the dough to maintain a tender, flaky texture; mix just until combined for best results. Chilling Time: Allow the tart to chill for at least 2 hours before serving. This ensures the filling sets properly, enhancing the flavors. Jam Layer: If using canned cherries, drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from making the tart soggy. Whipped Cream Stability: Incorporate crème fraiche with the mascarpone to keep your whipped cream stable and luscious, even after a day or two in the fridge. Taste Test: Always taste the chocolate filling before baking; adjust sweetness as necessary to achieve your preferred flavor depth in the Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries. What to Serve with Indulgent Black Forest Chocolate Tart The perfect meal deserves unforgettable accompaniments to elevate your dessert experience to heavenly heights. Fresh Berries: A medley of strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries adds a burst of freshness and vibrancy that beautifully complements the tart’s richness. Espresso: The deep, bold flavors of a good espresso create a delightful contrast, balancing the sweet elements of the tart. Chocolate Ice Cream: Creamy and indulgent, this chilled treat enhances the chocolate notes, making each bite even more decadent. Whipped Cream with a Twist: Infuse your whipped cream with a splash of cherry liqueur for an adult-friendly twist that harmonizes marvelously with the tart. Mint Tea: An aromatic and soothing option, mint tea’s refreshing qualities cleanse the palate and provide a lovely digestif after the chocolate. Dark Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling a little warm dark chocolate sauce over the tart adds an extra layer of indulgence, enhancing its chocolatey flavor. Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta: This silky dessert offers a light texture and a creamy finish, making it a sophisticated partner to the rich tart. Coconut Macaroons: Chewy and sweet, these delightful cookies would provide a satisfying textural contrast, perfect for sharing alongside the tart. Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay balances the sweetness beautifully, making it a lovely pairing for this chocolate delight. Black Forest Chocolate Tart Variations Explore these delightful variations to make your Black Forest Chocolate Tart uniquely yours! Almond Extract: Substitute almond extract for vanilla in the filling for a nutty, aromatic twist. It brings a delightful depth of flavor that harmonizes beautifully with chocolate. Jam Variety: Create a unique topping by using a mix of raspberry or blueberry jam instead of cherry. Each fruit adds its own complex sweetness to the chocolate. Lower-Fat Option: For a lighter dessert, replace mascarpone with a lower-fat whipped topping. This ensures you can enjoy dessert without sacrificing taste or texture. Dark Chocolate Delight: Substitute dark chocolate for semi-sweet to elevate the tart’s richness. The deeper cocoa flavor adds an extra layer of indulgence. Nut Base: Use almond flour or crushed walnuts in the tart shell for a nutty crunch. This switch enhances the flavor while adding a lovely texture contrast. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon to your filling for a surprising hint of heat. This will tantalize the senses with an unexpected warmth. Coconut Cream Topping: Swap out the regular whipped cream for coconut whipped cream. This vegan alternative adds a tropical flair and pairs well with dark chocolate. For more tempting treats, consider these Flourless Dark Chocolate cookies or the delightful Chocolate Chip Crumble muffins! Each brings something deliciously unique to your dessert table. How to Store and Freeze Black Forest Chocolate Tart Airtight Container: Store the tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the crust from becoming soggy. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving. Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave a portion for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the chocolate filling smooth and creamy. Whipped Cream Stability: To maintain the texture, whip fresh cream as needed, as pre-whipped cream may deflate when stored with the tart. Make Ahead Options Making the Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries ahead of time is a fantastic way to save you precious minutes on busy days! You can prepare the tart shell and fill it with the chocolate mixture up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply follow the instructions to make the tart shell, fill it with the chocolate filling, and bake it as directed. Allow it to cool completely before covering it with cling wrap and refrigerating it. The whipped cream topping can also be made ahead—just whip it up and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the freshest flavor, add the whipped cream just before serving, and top it with the cherries to ensure they remain vibrant and juicy. This way, you’ll have a decadent dessert ready to impress without any last-minute stress! Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right cherries for the tart? Absolutely! When selecting cherries, look for fresh, dark red cherries that are plump and firm, with no blemishes or dark spots. If fresh cherries are not in season, frozen pitted cherries can work well. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the tart. How should I store the Black Forest Chocolate Tart? To keep your tart fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the crust’s flakiness and prevents it from becoming soggy. I often use parchment paper between the tart and the container for extra protection. Can I freeze the Black Forest Chocolate Tart? Certainly! To freeze, wrap the entire tart tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the tart in the fridge overnight before serving. What should I do if my tart shell is too tough? If you find your tart shell is tough, it may have been overworked. To avoid this in the future, mix the dough just until combined and chill it adequately before rolling out. If it happens, try rolling it thinner next time, allowing for a more tender finish. Can I adjust the sweetness of the chocolate filling? Very much so! The sweetness can be adjusted by adding more or less caster sugar during the filling preparation. I suggest a taste test after mixing your sugars with the eggs—this way, you can achieve the desired sweetness before baking! Is this tart safe for pets or those with allergies? Always check for allergy considerations, as the tart contains common allergens like chocolate (cacao), dairy (cream and mascarpone), and eggs. For pets, especially dogs, keep the tart away, as chocolate is toxic to them. If you have allergies, consider substitute ingredients like dairy-free cream or gluten-free flour. Decadent Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries Delight This Black Forest Chocolate Tart with Fresh Cherries is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring a rich filling and fresh cherries. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 1 hour hrCook Time 30 minutes minsChilling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: GermanCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Tart Shell1 cup All-purpose Flour Provides structure1/3 cup Dutch Processed Cocoa Powder Enhances chocolate flavor1/4 cup Powdered Sugar Adds sweetness1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Cold and cubed1 whole Egg Binding agent2 large Egg Yolks Enriches flavorFor the Filling1 cup Caster Sugar Dissolves quickly1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Adds depth1/2 cup Cherry Jam Sweet and fruity layer1 cup Pitted Cherries Fresh when in season1 cup Heavy Cream At least 30% fat contentFor the Whipped Cream Topping1/2 cup Crème Fraiche Enhances flavor1/2 cup Mascarpone Cheese Adds richness Equipment Food processortart tinMixing BowlsDouble boilerElectric Mixer Method Step 1: Prepare the Tart ShellIn a food processor, combine flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Pulse in cubed butter until coarse crumbs form. Add egg, blend until dough comes together. Shape into a disk, wrap, and chill for 40-60 minutes.Step 2: Blind Bake the Tart ShellRoll out dough to fit a 10-inch tart tin. Transfer to tin, trim excess. Refrigerate for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line dough with parchment and fill with weights; bake for 20 minutes, then remove weights and bake for another 5 minutes.Step 3: Prepare the FillingMelt chocolates and butter in a double boiler. Cool slightly. Whisk eggs and sugar until pale. Gradually mix in melted chocolate, fold in flour and cocoa until combined.Step 4: Assemble and Bake the TartSpread cherry jam on baked tart shell. Pour the chocolate filling on top and bake for 20-25 minutes. Remove from oven, cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.Step 5: Prepare the Whipped CreamBeat mascarpone until smooth. Gradually add in heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla, whipping until stiff peaks form.Step 6: Assemble the TartRelease tart from tin, dollop whipped cream on top, dust with cocoa powder, and garnish with fresh cherries. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 4gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg NotesAvoid overworking the dough. Chill the tart for at least 2 hours for best flavor. Drain canned cherries to prevent sogginess. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
