Chocolate Cherry Tart (with Cherry Juice)

Rich, glossy chocolate ganache, juicy cherries, and a crisp cocoa crust — an elegant dessert perfect for Easter tables or any special gathering.

If you love the classic pairing of chocolate and cherries, this tart is pure indulgence. Deep dark chocolate meets bright, jewel-like cherries, while a splash of cherry juice intensifies the flavour and adds a subtle fruitiness that balances the richness beautifully. It looks impressive, tastes luxurious, and can be made ahead — ideal for entertaining.

Ingredients

Chocolate Tart Crust

• 200 g plain flour

• 40 g cocoa powder

• 80 g icing sugar

• 120 g cold butter, cubed

• 1 egg yolk

• 2–3 Tbsp cold water

Chocolate Cherry Filling

• 300 g good-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped

• 250 ml cream

• 60 ml cherry juice

• 30 g butter

• Pinch of salt

Cherry Topping

• 300–400 g fresh cherries, pitted (optional for presentation)

• Extra chocolate shavings (optional)

• Light dusting of icing sugar (optional)

Instructions

Step 1 — Make the Chocolate Tart Shell

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and icing sugar.

2. Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

3. Add egg yolk and cold water, mixing until a dough forms.

4. Shape into a disc, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.

Step 2 — Blind Bake

1. Preheat oven to 180°C (fan 160°C).

2. Roll dough and line a 23–25 cm tart tin.

3. Trim edges and prick base with a fork.

4. Line with baking paper and fill with baking weights or beans.

5. Bake 15 minutes, then remove weights and bake another 8–10 minutes.

6. Cool completely.

Step 3 — Make the Chocolate Cherry Ganache

1. Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.

2. Heat cream and cherry juice in a saucepan until just simmering.

3. Pour over chocolate and let sit 1 minute.

4. Stir gently until smooth and glossy.

5. Add butter and salt, stirring until fully melted.

Step 4 — Assemble the Tart

1. Pour ganache into the cooled tart shell.

2. Smooth the surface with a spatula.

3. Refrigerate for 1–2 hours until just set but still silky.

Step 5 — Decorate

Arrange fresh cherries over the top. Keep them piled generously in the centre for a dramatic look. Finish with chocolate shavings or a light dusting of icing sugar if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled or at cool room temperature for the best texture. This tart pairs beautifully with:

• Whipped cream

• Vanilla ice cream

• Fresh berries

• A small glass of cherry juice on the side

Storage

• Refrigerate up to 3 days

• Bring to room temperature before serving for a softer ganache
  

Perfect for Easter Entertaining

This tart makes a stunning Easter dessert — rich, celebratory, and beautifully seasonal. It’s elegant enough for guests but simple enough to prepare ahead, leaving you free to enjoy the long weekend.