Description
This elegant Cranberry White Chocolate Tart features a luscious white chocolate ganache nestled in a crisp pre-baked tart shell, topped with a vibrant, tangy cranberry compote infused with orange zest and vanilla. Perfectly balanced between sweet and tart, this make-ahead dessert is ideal for festive occasions or indulgent gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cranberry Compote
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 0.5 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Ganache
- 8 oz white chocolate, chopped
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Others
- 1 9-inch tart crust, pre-baked
- Powdered sugar (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the cranberry compote: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, granulated sugar, and orange zest. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Finish the compote: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the compote to cool completely to room temperature.
- Prepare the white chocolate ganache: Chop the white chocolate into small pieces and place in a heatproof bowl for easy melting.
- Heat the cream and butter: In a small saucepan, gently heat the heavy cream and unsalted butter until steaming but not boiling to prevent scorching.
- Combine cream with chocolate: Pour the hot cream and butter mixture over the chopped white chocolate. Let it sit for 1 minute, then stir until the chocolate is fully melted and the ganache is smooth.
- Assemble tart ganache layer: Pour the white chocolate ganache into the pre-baked tart shell and smooth the surface evenly.
- Add cranberry topping: Spoon the cooled cranberry compote over the ganache layer, spreading gently or swirling lightly for an attractive pattern.
- Chill the tart: Refrigerate the assembled tart for at least 2 hours, allowing the ganache to set firmly.
- Final garnish and serving: Just before serving, optionally dust the tart lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Use a pre-baked tart crust to ensure a crisp base without additional baking time.
- If fresh cranberries are not available, frozen cranberries can be used but thaw and drain excess liquid before cooking.
- The tart needs at least 2 hours chilling time, so prepare ahead of time for best results.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of orange liqueur to the cranberry compote after cooking.
- Store leftovers refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
