Decadent Chocolate and Peanut Butter Tart Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of chocolate and peanut butter—it’s a match made in dessert heaven! This chocolate and peanut butter tart has become my go-to recipe for celebrations and cozy nights in. The rich, velvety chocolate filling pairs perfectly with the creamy, nutty peanut butter layer, all nestled in a crisp, buttery crust. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or treating yourself to a quick indulgence, chocolate and peanut butter tart is sure to impress. It’s simple to make yet tastes like it came straight from a fancy bakery—pure bliss in every bite!

Ingredients for chocolate and peanut butter tart

For the Crust:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (best quality, such as Ghirardelli)
• 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (from Oreo baking crumbs, Dewey’s Brownie Crisp Cookies, or Nabisco Chocolate Wafers)

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 cup smooth peanut butter (recommendation: Skippy Natural)
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup cold heavy cream

For the Chocolate Topping:

• 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped (best quality, such as Ghirardelli)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup salted roasted peanuts, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

For the Crust:

• Prepare the Oven and Equipment:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Have a 10-inch tart pan with a removable bottom ready.
• Process the Cookies:
  • In a food processor, pulse 2 cups of chocolate cookie crumbs until finely ground.

• Melt Butter and Chocolate:
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
  • Add 4 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate to the melted butter and stir until smooth. If necessary, microwave in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until fully melted.

• Combine and Form the Crust:
  • Mix the cookie crumbs into the melted butter and chocolate mixture until well combined.
  • Press the mixture evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the tart pan to form a crust.
• Bake the Crust:
  • Place the tart pan on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven and let the crust cool completely on a wire rack.

For the Peanut Butter Filling:

• Prepare the Filling Mixture:
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of room temperature cream cheese, 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
  • Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until smooth and well combined.
• Whip the Cream:
  • In a separate bowl, whip 1 cup of cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

• Incorporate the Whipped Cream:
  • Gently fold one-third of the whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture to lighten it.
  • Carefully fold in the remaining whipped cream until the filling is smooth and uniform.

• Fill the Crust:
  • Spoon the peanut butter filling into the cooled crust, spreading it evenly.
  • Smooth the top with a spatula to create an even surface.

For the Chocolate Topping:

• Prepare the Ganache:
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, combine 4 ounces of chopped semisweet chocolate and ½ cup of heavy cream.
  • Heat in the microwave on high for 30 seconds, then stir. Repeat in 10-second intervals until the mixture is smooth and fully melted.

• Top the Tart:
  • Pour the chocolate ganache over the peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
• Garnish (Optional):
  • Sprinkle ¼ cup of chopped salted roasted peanuts over the top for added texture and flavor.
• Chill the Tart:
  • Refrigerate the tart for at least 3 hours, or until the filling and ganache are set.
• Serve:
  • Once set, remove the tart from the refrigerator.
  • Carefully remove the outer ring of the tart pan.
  • Slice and serve chilled.

Tips and FAQs

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality chocolate and peanut butter for the best flavor. Brands like Ghirardelli and Skippy Natural work well.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
• Gentle Folding: When incorporating whipped cream into the peanut butter mixture, fold gently to retain a light, airy texture.
• Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerate the tart for at least 3 hours to allow the layers to set properly.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I use a different type of crust?
A: Absolutely! You can swap the chocolate cookie crust for a graham cracker or shortbread crust if you prefer. Adjust the amount of butter as needed to hold the crust together.

Q: How should I store the tart?
A: Store the chocolate and peanut butter tart in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will keep for up to 4 days.

Q: Can I freeze the tart?
A: Yes, you can freeze the tart. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Q: What can I substitute for cream cheese?
A: For a slightly lighter filling, you can use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese. Note that it may alter the flavor slightly.

Q: What if my ganache doesn’t set?
A: If the ganache remains runny, it might need more chocolate. Reheat it gently and whisk in an additional ounce of chocolate until thickened.

Q: Can I make this tart ahead of time?
A: Yes! This chocolate and peanut butter tart is an excellent make-ahead dessert. Prepare it up to a day in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Q: How do I prevent the crust from crumbling?
A: Be sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the tart pan, using the bottom of a glass or measuring cup for an even surface. Baking the crust also helps it hold its shape.

Q: Can I make this tart without a tart pan?
A: If you don’t have a tart pan, a springform pan works as a great substitute. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Serving and Occasion Tips

This chocolate and peanut butter tart is perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner party to a festive holiday gathering. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra-special touch. It’s especially delightful as a Christmas dessert centerpiece or a summer treat when no-bake options save the day.

You Can Try Also This : Swiss Chocolate Chalet Cake or this Perfect Rhodes Cinnamon Rolls

Closing Thoughts

This chocolate and peanut butter tart is the perfect dessert to impress guests or treat yourself to a little indulgence. Its rich, creamy layers and effortless preparation make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. If you give chocolate and peanut butter tart recipe a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below, rate the recipe, or share your creation on social media with your friends. Don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious chocolate and peanut butter tarts!