Name: Chocolate Cherry Tart With a Rich Ganache Layer
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 2 h 35 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 24 chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate wafers, crushed; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for ganache); 2 cups fresh or jarred cherries, pitted and halved; 1/4 cup cherry preserves (optional)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tart has everything you want in a dessert—rich chocolate, fresh fruit, and a sophisticated presentation. The buttery chocolate crust provides the perfect base, while the smooth ganache melts in your mouth. The cherries add just the right amount of brightness and balance to the deep chocolate flavor. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare but looks like it came straight from a bakery.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chocolate sandwich cookies or chocolate wafers, crushed
Unsalted butter, melted
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
Heavy cream
Unsalted butter (for ganache)
Fresh or jarred cherries, pitted and halved
Cherry preserves (optional, for added cherry flavor)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter and press firmly into a tart pan with a removable bottom. Bake for 8 minutes, then cool completely.
Heat heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over chopped chocolate and butter, letting it sit for 2–3 minutes. Stir until smooth to form ganache.
Spread a thin layer of cherry preserves (if using) over the cooled crust.
Pour the ganache over the crust and smooth the top.
Arrange cherries over the ganache while it’s still soft, gently pressing them in.
Refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours or until the ganache is set.
Slice and serve chilled or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This tart serves 8–10 people. Preparation takes about 25 minutes, baking time is 8 minutes for the crust, and chilling time is at least 2 hours.

Variations

Use white chocolate ganache for a sweeter, creamier tart.
Add a splash of kirsch (cherry liqueur) to the ganache for a boozy twist.
Top with whipped cream or mascarpone for extra richness.
Replace cherries with raspberries or strawberries for a different fruity balance.
Make a nutty variation by sprinkling chopped pistachios or almonds on top.

Storage/Reheating

Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze (without cherries on top) for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge and add fresh fruit before serving. This tart does not require reheating and is best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance and keep it chilled until serving.

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before adding to the tart.

Do I need a tart pan with a removable bottom?

It’s recommended for easy removal, but you can use a pie dish instead.

Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, though the tart will be sweeter and less intense.

Can I make the crust without cookies?

Yes, you can use a traditional shortcrust pastry instead of a cookie crust.

What’s the best way to slice the tart cleanly?

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Can I add nuts to the crust?

Yes, finely ground almonds or hazelnuts can be added to the crust mixture.

Will the ganache harden too much in the fridge?

It firms up but stays creamy; let the tart sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing.

Can I use cherry pie filling instead of fresh cherries?

Yes, but it will be sweeter and more jam-like. Fresh or jarred cherries give the best balance.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply make it in two tart pans if serving a larger group.

Conclusion

Chocolate Cherry Tart with a Rich Ganache Layer is a sophisticated yet approachable dessert that combines the decadence of chocolate with the brightness of cherries. With its glossy ganache and jewel-like fruit topping, it’s as stunning to look at as it is delicious to eat. Ideal for special occasions, this tart is sure to impress guests and satisfy any chocolate lover.