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Dessert

Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Tart Recipe

October 23, 2020|By Carolyn Cohen
Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Tart - dessert recipe by Carolyn Cohen

This is the best pecan tart you will ever make. Make sure you use the best quality chocolate for the chocolate base.

Ingredients

  • For the Shortbread Base
  • Cooking spray
  • 14 Tbs. (200 grams/7oz.) melted unsalted
  • butter (cooled to warm) (note: 1 stick is 8 Tbs.
  • so you need 2 sticks minus 2 Tbs.)
  • ½ cup light brown sugar
  • ½ tsp. salt
  • 2 cups plus 2 Tbs. (270 grams/9 ½ oz.) all
  • purpose flour
  • 2 tsp. cinnamon
  • Heaping ¾ cup (85 grams/3 oz), finely grated
  • bittersweet chocolate
  • For the Pecan Topping
  • 3 cups (285 grams/ 10 oz) pecans, toasted
  • (toast at 350˚F for 10 minutes)
  • ½ cup (113 grams/4 oz) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar (I like dark brown
  • for this)
  • ⅓ cup honey
  • 2 Tbs. heavy cream, 35%
  • ½ tsp. fine grain sea salt (regular table salt is
  • also ok)

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 325ºF.

  2. 2

    Spray the sides and bottom of an 11-inch removable bottom tart pan of the tart pan with cooking spray.

  3. 3

    In a mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, sugar, and salt. Stir in flour and cinnamon to make a heavy dough. Press the dough into the bottom of the pan, evenly. Prick the dough all over with a fork. Place in the freezer for 5 minutes (or fridge for 30 minutes).

  4. 4

    Position the rack in the centre of the oven. Bake the chilled dough for 30 minutes; crust will be golden. While the crust is baking, make the pecan topping.

  5. 5

    Pulse the pecans in a food processor until coarsely chopped.

  6. 6

    In a medium size saucepan, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar, honey, cream and salt. Simmer for 1 minute, stirring occasionally. Stir in the pecans.

  7. 7

    When cookie base comes out of the oven immediately sprinkle with the chocolate evenly AND TURN UP THE HEAT TO 350˚F.

  8. 8

    Pour mixture over the chocolate covered cookie base, spreading evenly.

  9. 9

    Bake (350˚F.) until bubbling, 16-18 minutes.

  10. 10

    Let cool completely in pan before lifting the bottom of the tart pan from the outer ring. Serve on the bottom of the pan,

  11. 11

    Eat immediately or store tightly covered at room temperature for about 5 days, or freeze. Serves 10-12

Tips & Storage

How to Store
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week depending on the ingredients.
Can I Freeze This?
Many baked desserts freeze well for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
Baking Tip
Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature before starting unless the recipe specifies otherwise. This ensures better mixing and a more even bake.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Tart?

This Chocolate Pecan Shortbread Tart recipe by Carolyn Cohen includes step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. You'll need 22 ingredients and the recipe is designed for home cooks of all skill levels.

Can I make this chocolate pecan shortbread tart in advance?

Yes, many desserts can be prepared a day ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.