Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

Gingerbread Chocolate Tart is a delightful holiday dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the warm spices of gingerbread. This Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart features a creamy spiced chocolate ganache filling nestled in a crisp gingerbread spiced shortcrust pastry. Perfect for festive gatherings, this dessert is an indulgent treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This tart uses simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it accessible even for novice bakers.
• Nut-Free Option: The recipe avoids nuts, catering to those with nut allergies while still delivering delicious flavor and texture.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to be gluten-free by swapping in gluten-free all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can join in on the fun.
• Perfect for Holidays: With its warm spices and festive presentation, this tart is ideal for Christmas parties and cozy winter gatherings.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of dark chocolate and ginger spice creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart, gather the necessary tools for a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Round 9 tart tin
• Rolling pin
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Makes mixing the dough effortless and ensures all ingredients are blended evenly.
• Tart tin: Provides the perfect shape for your tart, allowing for even baking and easy removal once set.
• Rolling pin: Helps achieve a uniform thickness in the crust, ensuring it bakes evenly and crisps perfectly.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 150 g plain flour (use GF all-purpose flour if required)
– 100 g vegan butter, block style (see note 1)
– 60 g molasses (see note 2)
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon allspice
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon sea salt
– ½ teaspoon orange zest (optional)
– 250 g dark chocolate (OR 170g for a soft filling see note 3)
– 350 g coconut cream (see note 4)
– 60 g pure maple syrup
– 20 g molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– pinch sea salt
– ¼ batch vegan gingerbread cookies
– 2 tablespoons pomegranate seeds (optional)

How to Make Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat your oven to fan-forced 160°C/320°F or conventional 180°C/356°F. Lightly grease the base and sides of a round 9 tart tin with oil or vegan butter and dust with flour. If desired, line the base with parchment paper.
2. Add the flour, vegan butter, molasses, spices, and salt to a food processor. Blitz until mixed into a loose dough.
3. Form the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disc. Wrap in clingfilm or place in an airtight container; refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

1. Roll out the chilled dough until it is an inch larger than your tart tin’s circumference.
2. Carefully lift the pastry over the tin, easing it in gently with your fingers.
3. Trim excess pastry from edges using a knife, letting it rise slightly above the sides of the pan. Pierce several times with a fork.

Step 3: Bake the Crust

1. Cut parchment paper into a circle larger than your tart shell. Place it on top of the pastry; fill with dried beans or baking beads.
2. Parbake in the oven for about 12 minutes. Remove beans/baking beads carefully.
3. Return crust to oven; bake another 10–12 minutes until crisp.

Step 4: Prepare Filling

1. Finely chop dark chocolate; place it in a heat-resistant bowl.
2. In a saucepan, add coconut cream; bring to a simmer (do not boil).
3. Pour hot coconut cream over chocolate; let sit for about five minutes before whisking until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Ganache Ingredients

1. Stir in maple syrup, molasses, ground ginger, and sea salt until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Assemble Tart

1. Pour ganache mixture into baked crust; tap gently on work surface to release air bubbles.
2. Allow cooling for about ten minutes before transferring to fridge to set for at least four hours (or overnight).

Step 7: Garnish

1. Once set, remove tart from tin; place on serving dish.
2. Top with vegan gingerbread cookies, pomegranate seeds, and fresh rosemary if desired.

Enjoy this festive Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart as part of your holiday celebrations!

How to Serve Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

This Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart is a festive delight that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dessert experience.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Add a mix of fresh strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a tart contrast to the rich chocolate.
• Sliced Oranges: Citrus slices brighten up the plate and add a refreshing flavor that complements the spices.

Accompanied by Whipped Coconut Cream

• Coconut Cream: Lighten the tart with a dollop of whipped coconut cream for added richness and creaminess without dairy.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Enhance with vanilla or cinnamon extracts for an aromatic touch.

Garnished with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the smooth ganache.
• Toasted Almonds: Use toasted almonds for an elegant finish and a hint of nuttiness.

Served with Hot Beverages

• Spiced Chai Tea: Pair your tart with a warm spiced chai to enhance the ginger and spice flavors.
• Rich Coffee: A cup of strong coffee balances the sweetness and adds depth to your dessert experience.

How to Perfect Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

Creating the perfect Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for success.

• Chill Your Dough Well: Ensuring your dough is well-chilled helps maintain its structure while baking, resulting in a crisp crust.
• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for the ganache; it significantly impacts flavor and texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the tart shell while baking; overbaking can lead to a dry crust.
• Allow Ganache to Set Properly: Give your tart ample time in the fridge to set; this ensures a smooth, sliceable filling.
• Decorate Just Before Serving: To maintain freshness, add garnishes like fruits and whipped cream right before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

Pairing your Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart with complementary side dishes enhances its flavors. Consider these delightful options:

1. Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon create a warm, sweet side that pairs perfectly with chocolate.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast and balances the rich tart.
3. Roasted Pears: Drizzled with maple syrup, roasted pears add elegance and additional seasonal flavors to your meal.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Serve alongside extra chocolate sauce for those who want even more indulgence on their slice.
5. Ginger Snap Cookies: The crunchy texture complements the softness of the tart while enhancing its ginger flavor.
6. Chai-Spiced Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and spiced notes that tie in beautifully with the dessert’s theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Make sure all ingredients, especially vegan butter, are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth dough and a creamy ganache.
• Overmixing the dough: When combining the ingredients for the tart crust, mix just until it forms a dough. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Don’t skip refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes; this helps the pastry hold its shape during baking.
• Not using parchment paper: Always line your tart tin with parchment paper when baking. This prevents sticking and makes for easier removal.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow the tart to cool completely before transferring it to the fridge. This ensures the filling sets properly without melting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the fridge to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C/300°F. Place tart on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on a microwave-safe plate for 30 seconds intervals until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart.

Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute plain flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour to enjoy this delicious dessert without gluten.

How do I ensure my ganache is smooth?

To achieve a smooth ganache, let the hot coconut cream sit on top of chopped chocolate for about five minutes before whisking it together.

Can I customize the spices used in the tart?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste or even add other flavors like cardamom or cloves for a unique twist.

What can I use instead of coconut cream?

You can use any plant-based cream alternative that is thick and rich, such as cashew cream or almond cream.

How long does it take for the tart to set in the fridge?

The Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart needs at least four hours or overnight in the refrigerator to set properly.

Final Thoughts

The Vegan Gingerbread Chocolate Tart is not only delicious but also versatile enough to cater to various dietary preferences. With its rich chocolate filling and spiced gingerbread crust, it’s perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or spices!