🛒 Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 🌾 1 1/2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs (like Oreo, without filling)
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Chocolate Filling:
- 🍫 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
- 🥛 1 cup heavy cream
- 🧈 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 🌿 1 tsp peppermint extract
For the Peppermint Whipped Topping:
- 🥛 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 🍬 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 🌿 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
For Decoration:
- 🍬 Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- 🍫 Shaved chocolate or chocolate curls
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Make the Crust Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix the chocolate cookie crumbs and melted butter until evenly combined.
- Press and Bake:
- Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan. Bake for 8–10 minutes. Let cool completely.
Make the Chocolate Filling
- Heat the Cream:
- In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream until it just begins to simmer.
- Melt the Chocolate:
- Place the chopped chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Mix in the peppermint extract.
- Assemble the Tart:
- Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until set.
Make the Peppermint Whipped Topping
- Whip the Cream:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and peppermint extract until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate the Tart:
- Pipe or spread the whipped topping over the tart. Garnish with crushed peppermint candies and chocolate curls.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🍫 Extra Layer: Add a thin layer of caramel or chocolate ganache beneath the filling for added richness.
- 🌿 Mint Chocolate: Use mint-flavored chocolate for a stronger peppermint kick.
- 🥥 Coconut Crust: Substitute the cookie crumbs with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- 🍬 Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free chocolate cookies for the crust.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Serve this tart chilled, paired with a hot cup of peppermint mocha or spiced tea. It’s a festive and indulgent dessert that’s perfect for holiday gatherings or as a stunning centerpiece for your Christmas dinner table.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Festive Chocolate Peppermint Tart is a holiday favorite that combines rich, creamy chocolate with the refreshing zing of peppermint. The buttery chocolate crust and crushed candy garnish make it both decadent and visually stunning—a treat that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
