Ingredients

Dough:

• Butter: 150 g (10 ½ tbsp)
• Powdered sugar: 90 g (¾ cup)
• All-purpose flour: 260 g (2 cups + 1 tbsp)
• Salt: 1 pinch
• Egg yolks: 2
• Instant coffee: 10 g (1 tbsp)

Cream:

• Milk: 300 ml (1 ¼ cups)
• Sugar: 70 g (⅓ cup)
• Instant coffee: 20 g (2 tbsp)
• Egg yolks: 2
• Vanilla sugar: 1 tbsp
• Vanilla pudding powder or cornstarch: 40 g (5 tbsp)
• Butter: 250 g (1 cup + 2 tbsp)
• Powdered sugar: 70 g (½ cup + 1 tbsp)

Chocolate Icing:

• Dark chocolate: 200 g (7 oz)
• Coffee beans for decoration (optional)

Baking:

• Temperature: 160 °C (fan oven) / 325 °F
• Time: 10 minutes

Steps to Make Coffee Cream Tart

1. Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolks and instant coffee, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Gradually sift in the flour and salt, mixing just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
4. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the Oven and Roll Out the Dough

1. Preheat your fan oven to 160 °C (325 °F).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a tart pan (approximately 9 inches in diameter).
3. Carefully transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess. Prick the base with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.

3. Bake the Tart Shell

1. Bake the prepared tart shell in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
2. Remove from the oven and let it cool completely before adding the filling.

4. Prepare the Coffee Cream Filling

1. In a saucepan, heat the milk and instant coffee over medium heat, stirring until the coffee dissolves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, vanilla sugar, and vanilla pudding powder (or cornstarch) until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the hot coffee-infused milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring continuously, until it thickens into a custard.
5. Remove the custard from the heat and let it cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.

5. Make the Coffee Buttercream

1. Beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until fluffy and pale.
2. Gradually add the cooled coffee custard to the butter mixture, beating until smooth and creamy.

6. Assemble the Tart

1. Spread the coffee cream evenly over the cooled tart shell, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the cream to set.

7. Prepare the Chocolate Icing

1. Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
2. Pour the melted chocolate over the chilled tart, spreading it evenly to cover the coffee cream layer.
3. Decorate with coffee beans if desired.

8. Chill and Serve

1. Return the tart to the refrigerator to set the chocolate layer.
2. Slice and serve chilled.

Prep and Cooking Times

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 ½ hours
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Servings: 10

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 22g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Sodium: 80mg

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Coffee Cream Tart with Chocolate Icing is a timeless dessert because it balances nostalgia with sophistication. The buttery tart shell reminds us of traditional European pastries, while the coffee-infused cream and chocolate icing bring modern flair.

This dessert also caters to a wide audience. Coffee enthusiasts will love the bold flavors, while those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the harmonious blend of bitter and sweet. Its versatility makes it suitable for both casual gatherings and formal celebrations.

Moreover, the recipe offers a sensory experience—each bite delivers layers of contrasting textures and complementary flavors. It’s a dessert that stands the test of time, appealing to generations of bakers and dessert lovers.

FAQs

1. Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, this tart can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

2. Can I use decaffeinated coffee?
Absolutely! Decaffeinated instant coffee works just as well, making it suitable for those avoiding caffeine.

3. What can I substitute for dark chocolate?
You can use milk chocolate or a mix of milk and dark chocolate if you prefer a sweeter icing.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Making the Perfect Coffee Cream Tart

1. Use High-Quality Ingredients: The flavors of butter, coffee, and chocolate are the stars of this tart, so opt for high-quality versions.
2. Chill the Dough: Cold dough is easier to handle and results in a flakier crust.
3. Prevent Overheating Chocolate: Melt chocolate gently to avoid scorching.
4. Smooth Custard: Strain the custard through a sieve if it appears lumpy.
5. Decorate Thoughtfully: Coffee beans or a dusting of cocoa powder can add a professional touch.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Keep the tart in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover it to prevent the chocolate from absorbing fridge odors.
• Freezing: This tart can be frozen without the chocolate topping. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before adding the chocolate layer and serving.

Conclusion

The Coffee Cream Tart with Chocolate Icing is more than a dessert—it’s a culinary masterpiece that blends tradition with creativity. Its elegant appearance and complex flavors make it a showstopper for any occasion, while its approachable steps ensure anyone can succeed in making it.

From the rich coffee cream to the luxurious chocolate topping, every element of this tart works together in perfect harmony. It’s a dessert that invites you to savor each bite and makes even ordinary days feel special.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is a delightful challenge that yields impressive results. Share it with loved ones or enjoy a slice yourself—it’s guaranteed to brighten your day.