Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe
If you’re looking for a dessert that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen, then this Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe is exactly what you need! This tart is a showstopper, combining the rich flavors of chocolate with the delightful crunch of pistachios. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or even just a cozy night in.
What I love most about this recipe is how each layer works harmoniously together. The cocoa pastry shell provides a lovely base, while the creamy ganache and smooth pistachio filling are absolute bliss. Trust me; once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Decadent Layers: Each layer from the cocoa crust to the glossy ganache offers a unique taste experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal fuss, this tart will make you feel like a pro in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: The delightful combination of chocolate and pistachios is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it ahead of time and let it chill; it’s perfect for busy days.
- Beautiful Presentation: Garnished with roasted pistachios, it’s not just tasty but also stunning on any dessert table.

Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients will be a breeze with this simple list! Each component is wholesome and easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for this delightful Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart.
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
- 1–2 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
Variations
This Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- Add Some Spice: Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or cardamom to the ganache for an exotic twist.
- Nut Alternative: If you’re not a fan of pistachios, try using almonds or hazelnuts instead!
- Fruit Layer: Add a layer of raspberry or cherry jam under the ganache for an extra fruity touch.
- Vegan Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
How to Make Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe
Step 1: Make the Chocolate Tart Shell
Start by whisking together your flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt in a bowl. This step combines these dry ingredients so that each bite has that incredible chocolate flavor. Next, add in your cold cubed butter and blend until it resembles coarse crumbs—this is key for achieving that flaky texture we all love! Mix in your egg yolk and add cold milk gradually until the dough comes together. Wrap your dough in plastic wrap and chill it; this helps it firm up before baking.
Step 2: Blind Bake the Shell
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out your chilled dough and press it evenly into your tart pan. Pricking the base with a fork helps steam escape during baking so that your tart cooks evenly. By lining it with parchment paper and filling it with weights or dried beans, you’re ensuring that it keeps its shape. Bake for about 25 minutes until it’s firm but still lovely and tender inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Bottom Ganache Layer
In a small saucepan, heat up your heavy cream just until it simmers—this step is important as it melts the chocolate perfectly! Pour this over your chopped dark chocolate and allow it to sit; this helps soften the chocolate before stirring. Mixing in vanilla extract adds depth to this luscious layer. Once smooth, pour it into your cooled tart shell and let it chill until set.
Step 4: Make the Pistachio Cream Layer
Blend those beautiful shelled pistachios with milk until smooth—this creates such a lovely nutty flavor! Cook this mixture along with heavy cream, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat while stirring constantly. This thickening process gives you that custard-like consistency that’s so dreamy! After cooling slightly, fold in some roasted pistachios before spreading even layers over your ganache.
Step 5: Prepare the Top Ganache Layer
Heat more cream until it’s just simmering again; pour over chopped chocolate and butter as before. Stir until everything melds into a glossy finish—how satisfying is that? Gently spoon this over your pistachio layer and smooth out with a spatula for an elegant look.
Step 6: Garnish and Chill
Sprinkle those gorgeous roasted pistachios around the edge for decoration—this not only looks stunning but adds extra crunch too! Allow your tart to chill for at least an hour before slicing; letting all those layers meld together creates pure magic when served!
Enjoy creating this delightful dessert—it’s sure to bring smiles all around!
Pro Tips for Making Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe
Creating the perfect Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart is all about attention to detail and a bit of patience. Here are some tips to help you master this delightful dessert!
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Use cold ingredients: Starting with cold butter and cream helps achieve a flaky tart shell and a smooth ganache. It ensures that the butter stays solid until baking, which prevents the crust from becoming greasy.
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Chill between layers: Allow each layer to set in the refrigerator before adding the next. This not only helps maintain distinct layers but also makes slicing the tart easier and neater.
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Don’t rush the ganache: When making ganache, let the chocolate sit in hot cream before stirring. This allows the chocolate to melt evenly, resulting in a silky texture without any lumps.
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Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices or extracts to enhance flavor! A pinch of cinnamon or a hint of cardamom can elevate your tart to new heights.
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Serve at room temperature: While it might be tempting to dig in straight from the fridge, letting your tart sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving allows flavors to bloom and creates a more pleasant texture.
How to Serve Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe
Presentation can make all the difference when serving your Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart! Here are some ideas on how to showcase this stunning dessert for your guests.
Garnishes
- Chopped pistachios: Sprinkle some chopped roasted pistachios around the edge or on top for added crunch and color.
- Fresh mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness that beautifully complements the richness of the tart.
- Cocoa powder dusting: Lightly dusting cocoa powder over the top adds an elegant touch while enhancing the chocolate flavor.
Side Dishes
- Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light, airy contrast to the rich tart. It’s vegan-friendly and perfectly complements the flavors.
- Fresh berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries like raspberries or strawberries for a burst of acidity that balances out sweetness.
- Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy, cool accompaniment that pairs beautifully with chocolate and pistachio.
- Coffee or herbal tea: Offering coffee or herbal tea alongside your tart not only enhances its flavors but also provides a cozy finish to your dessert experience.
With these serving suggestions, your Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart will not only taste divine but also look stunning on any dessert table! Enjoy every decadent bite!

Make Ahead and Storage
This Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe is perfect for meal prep! It can be made in advance, allowing you to enjoy a delightful dessert whenever the craving strikes.
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover tart slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
- If you want to freeze the tart, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe container.
- Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating
- To rewarm, let the tart sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Alternatively, heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds on low power.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about this delicious tart!
Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios in the Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts. Just ensure they are unsalted and finely chopped for a smooth texture.
How long does the Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe take to prepare?
The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour and 5 minutes, which includes preparation, cooking, and chilling time. It’s worth every minute!
Is there a dairy-free option for the ganache layers?
Yes! You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream alternative to make both ganache layers dairy-free. Just ensure your chocolate is also dairy-free.
What type of chocolate should I use for this recipe?
For the best flavor, opt for dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa content. This will give you rich depth without overwhelming sweetness.
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in creating this Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe! With its elegant layers and delightful flavors, it’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy making it as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy baking!
Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart
Indulge in the decadence of our Chocolate Pistachio Ganache Tart Recipe, a dessert that marries rich chocolate with the delightful crunch of pistachios. Ideal for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy nights at home, this tart features a cocoa pastry shell filled with creamy ganache and a smooth pistachio layer. Each bite is an exquisite blend of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more. Plus, with its straightforward preparation and make-ahead convenience, you can impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Adorned with roasted pistachios, this stunning tart is as beautiful as it is delicious!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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
- 1–2 tablespoons cold milk (as needed)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 100g dark chocolate (at least 60%), chopped
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 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)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 100g dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Chopped or whole roasted pistachios
Instructions
- Make the cocoa pastry shell by combining flour, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt; add cold butter until crumbly. Mix in egg yolk and milk to form dough; chill.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough, press it into a tart pan, prick the base, and blind bake for 25 minutes.
- Prepare the bottom ganache layer by heating cream, pouring over chopped chocolate, and mixing until smooth; pour into the cooled tart shell.
- For the pistachio layer, blend pistachios with milk; cook with cream and sugar until thickened. Fold in chopped pistachios before spreading on ganache.
- For the top ganache layer, heat cream again and combine with chocolate and butter until glossy; pour over the pistachio layer.
- Garnish with roasted pistachios and chill for at least an hour before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 85g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
