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Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe

4.6 from 141 reviews

This Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart is an elegant dessert featuring a rich cocoa tart shell, luscious dark chocolate ganache layers, and a creamy pistachio filling. The combination of smooth chocolate with nutty pistachio cream creates a decadent treat perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave an indulgent yet refined dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chocolate Tart Shell

  • 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (30g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 1/3 cup (40g) powdered sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 12 tablespoons cold milk (as needed)
  • Pinch of salt

For the Bottom Ganache Layer

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 100g dark chocolate (at least 60%), chopped
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For the Pistachio Layer

  • 1 cup (130g) shelled unsalted pistachios (plus extra for garnish)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) whole milk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

For the Top Ganache Layer

  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
  • 100g dark chocolate, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Garnish

  • Chopped or whole roasted pistachios

Instructions

  1. Make the Chocolate Tart Shell: In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the cubed cold butter and use your fingertips or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Mix in the egg yolk, then add cold milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Blind Bake the Shell: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim the edges and prick the base with a fork. Line the shell with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then carefully remove the weights and parchment paper, and bake for another 10 minutes. Allow the crust to cool completely before filling.
  3. Prepare the Bottom Ganache Layer: Heat heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it begins to simmer. Pour the hot cream over the chopped dark chocolate in a bowl and let it sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth, then mix in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Pour this ganache into the cooled tart shell and chill for 30 minutes or until set.
  4. Make the Pistachio Cream Layer: In a blender or food processor, blend the shelled pistachios with milk until smooth. Transfer this mixture to a saucepan and add heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a custard-like consistency. Remove from heat and stir in almond extract if using. Let the mixture cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then gently fold in about one-third cup of whole roasted pistachios. Spread this pistachio cream evenly over the set ganache layer. Chill the tart for another 30 to 45 minutes.
  5. Prepare the Top Ganache Layer: Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until it just begins to simmer. Pour it over the chopped dark chocolate and butter in a bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Pour this ganache gently over the pistachio layer and smooth the surface with a spatula.
  6. Garnish and Chill: Sprinkle chopped or whole roasted pistachios around the edges of the tart for decoration. Chill the tart for at least 1 hour before slicing to ensure all layers set properly.

Notes

  • Be sure the butter for the tart shell is cold to create a flaky crust.
  • Use dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for the best rich flavor.
  • The almond extract in the pistachio layer is optional but enhances the nutty flavor.
  • Blind baking the tart shell prevents a soggy bottom when adding the wet fillings.
  • Chilling between layers helps the tart set into distinct layers for a beautiful presentation.
  • To roast your own pistachios, toast them lightly in a dry pan until fragrant.

Keywords: Chocolate tart, pistachio dessert, ganache tart, chocolate pastry, nutty tart, elegant dessert, baked chocolate tart