MAMMA’S CHOCOLATE AND PEAR TART

Delicate shortcrust pastry wraps a delicious chocolate cream, embellished with tender, flavorful pears, all baked to perfection.

This timeless dessert is a symphony of rich flavors and textures, a true masterpiece that will captivate your senses and elevate any occasion.

Transport yourself to the enchanting streets of Italy with every bite of this divine creation.

Why Love This Dessert?

• Timeless Elegance: Perfectly balances sweet, fruity, and rich chocolate flavors.
• Versatile Delight: Great for special occasions or a casual family treat.
• Homemade Charm: Every step brings authentic Italian flavors into your kitchen.

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 45 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

• 1 cup (227 g) butter, softened
• 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
• 6 egg yolks
• 1 1/4 cups (250 g) sugar
• Zest of 1 lemon or 1 tsp lemon extract
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tsp baking powder

For the Filling:

• 2 cups (500 ml) milk
• 3/4 cup (160 g) sugar
• 4 egg yolks
• 1/2 cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• A pinch of salt
• 5.6 oz (160 g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 pears, peeled and diced
• 1/3 cup (80 ml) Grappa or rum (or water with 1/2 tsp rum extract)
• Powdered sugar for dusting

Step-by-Step Method

For the Shortcrust Pastry:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Create a well in the center.
2. Add the softened butter, egg yolks, lemon zest, and salt to the well. Using your hands, mix until a dough forms.
3. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Chocolate Custard:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it just begins to boil.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, flour, and salt until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking continuously. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring until it thickens.
4. Remove from heat, add the chopped dark chocolate, and stir until fully melted. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Pears:

1. In a skillet, cook the diced pears with Grappa or flavored water over medium heat for 10 minutes. Drain well and set aside.

Assemble the Tart:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan.
2. Roll out two-thirds of the chilled dough into a circle and fit it into the tart pan, covering the bottom and sides.
3. Pour the chocolate custard into the crust and spread evenly. Scatter the drained pears over the custard.
4. Roll out the remaining dough into a circle and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and trim any excess. Cut small slits in the top for steam to escape.

Bake the Tart:

1. Bake on the second rack from the bottom for 30 minutes, using the convection setting. If the top browns too quickly, cover with parchment paper.
2. Remove from the oven and let the tart cool completely before unmolding.

Finish:

1. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Tips and Suggestions

• Customizable Filling: Swap pears for apples or berries for a seasonal twist.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Serving Suggestion: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla gelato.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Enjoy the decadent combination of pears and chocolate, wrapped in a golden crust that embodies the very essence of Italian pastry perfection. Buon appetito! 🍐🍫