Pear and Chocolate Dessert Tart

This dessert combines the juicy sweetness of ripe pears with the rich, smooth taste of chocolate for a truly delightful treat. It’s perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in.

Ingredients

1 shortcrust pastry crust
6 ½ ounces 70% dark chocolate, chopped
1 ½ cups ground almonds
2 eggs
½ cup superfine sugar
6 ½ tablespoons butter, softened
3 pears - peeled, cored, and quartered

Why This Recipe Is So Good

This dessert combines the natural sweetness of ripe pears with the rich, smooth flavor of chocolate. The contrast of textures—from the crisp tart crust to the soft fruit filling—makes every bite delightful. It’s an elegant yet approachable treat that impresses without much fuss.

Tips For Better Flavor

- Use ripe but firm pears to avoid a mushy filling.
- Chill the dough before rolling to prevent it from shrinking during baking.
- Warm the chocolate slightly for easier spreading and a smoother finish.

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out your pastry to about a quarter-inch thick and gently press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Use a fork to prick the base all over, then pop it into the freezer for about 20 minutes—this helps keep the pastry from puffing up while baking.

Step 2

Once chilled, bake the crust for 10 minutes until it’s just set, then take it out and lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C).

Step 3

While the crust is baking, set up a double boiler by simmering a bit of water in a saucepan. Place a heatproof bowl on top, making sure it doesn’t touch the water, and add the chocolate to melt slowly. Try not to stir too much so the chocolate stays smooth.

Step 4

In a separate bowl, mix together the ground almonds, eggs, sugar, and butter until well combined. Pour in the warm melted chocolate and give it a good stir to bring everything together.

Step 5

Pour this chocolate mixture into your partially baked tart shell. Then, arrange the pear slices on top, gently pressing them into the filling so they stick.

Step 6

Pop the tart back into the oven and bake for about 35 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling feels firm to the touch. Let it cool a bit before serving and enjoy!

Best Serving Ideas

Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty touch. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine for a complete experience.

Food Storage Guide

Store the tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently before serving to bring back the soft texture of the pears and chocolate.

From the Dip Dish Food Team

Recipe Editors