Decadent Black Forest Heart Tarts
Indulge in a romantic twist on the classic Black Forest cake with these Decadent Black Forest Heart Tarts. Perfect for special occasions or just to impress your loved ones, these heart-shaped tarts combine rich chocolate cake or brownies with luscious whipped cream and a sweet cherry topping, all while being garnished with delicate chocolate curls and sliced almonds for an added crunch. Whether you choose to cut your dessert into charming hearts or keep it in simple squares, the delightful flavors and textures will transport you to a world of chocolate and cherry bliss.
8
Servings
270
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
chocolate cake or brownies
8 slices (prepared about 1 inch thick and cut into 2x2 squares or hearts)
heavy whipping cream
1 cup (fresh)
powdered sugar
1/4 cup (sifted)
vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure)
cherry pie filling
1 (8 ounce) can (canned)
almond extract
1/2 teaspoon (pure)
chocolate curls
to taste (optional for garnish)
sliced almonds
to taste (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1
Begin by preheating your oven if you're making the cake or brownies from scratch.
2
Prepare the chocolate cake or brownies, allowing them to cool completely before cutting into heart shapes with a cookie cutter, or simply cut them into squares.
3
In a mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and sifted powdered sugar together until stiff peaks form, then gently fold in the vanilla extract.
4
In a separate bowl, mix the cherry pie filling with the almond extract until well combined.
5
To assemble each tart, place a heart-shaped slice of cake or brownie on a serving plate and generously spread the cherry pie filling on top.
6
Next, pipe or spoon the whipped cream over the cherry layer.
7
For a finishing touch, garnish with optional chocolate curls and sliced almonds for added texture and elegance.
8
Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors!
Nutrition Information
16.25g
Fat
27.5g
Carbs
2.5g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Decadent Black Forest Heart Tarts?
They are a romantic dessert featuring heart-shaped chocolate cake or brownies topped with cherry pie filling and fresh whipped cream.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to yield 8 servings.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include chocolate cake or brownies, heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, cherry pie filling, almond extract, and optional chocolate curls and almonds.
How many calories are in one tart?
Each serving contains approximately 270 calories.
Can I use brownies instead of chocolate cake?
Yes, you can use either chocolate cake or brownies prepared to about 1 inch thick.
How do I create the heart shapes?
Allow the cake or brownies to cool completely and then use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the portions.
What type of cherry filling is used?
The recipe calls for one 8-ounce can of cherry pie filling.
How do I prepare the whipped cream?
Beat heavy whipping cream and sifted powdered sugar until stiff peaks form, then fold in the vanilla extract.
Is store-bought whipped cream acceptable?
While the recipe suggests fresh whipped cream, you could use store-bought as a shortcut.
Why is almond extract added to the cherries?
Almond extract is mixed with the cherry pie filling to provide a depth of flavor that complements the chocolate and fruit.
Should the powdered sugar be sifted?
Yes, sifting the powdered sugar ensures a smooth texture in the homemade whipped cream.
How thick should the cake or brownie base be?
The base should be prepared to be approximately 1 inch thick.
Can these tarts be made ahead of time?
It is recommended to serve them immediately, but you can prepare the components in advance.
What are the optional garnishes?
Optional garnishes include chocolate curls and sliced almonds for added texture and elegance.
Is this recipe suitable for Valentine's Day?
Yes, the heart shapes and decadent flavors make it a perfect romantic choice for Valentine's Day.
Can I cut the dessert into squares instead?
Yes, if you do not have a heart-shaped cutter, you can simply cut the cake or brownies into 2x2 squares.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains 16.25g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in each tart?
There are 27.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
Do these tarts contain protein?
Yes, each tart provides about 2.5g of protein.
What type of vanilla extract is recommended?
The recipe specifies using pure vanilla extract.
What is the assembly order for the tarts?
Place the cake base on a plate, spread cherry filling on top, and finish with a layer of whipped cream.
Can I use frozen cherries instead of pie filling?
The recipe specifically calls for canned cherry pie filling for its sweetness and texture.
How much cherry pie filling is needed?
You will need one 8-ounce can of cherry pie filling.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Are the sliced almonds necessary?
No, sliced almonds are an optional garnish for those who want an added crunch.
Is this considered a German dessert?
Yes, the flavor profile is inspired by the traditional German Black Forest cake.
When should the tarts be served?
For the best texture and flavor, serve the tarts immediately after assembly.
Can I use different cookie cutter shapes?
Absolutely, you can use any shape to suit different celebrations and occasions.
Does the cake need to be cooled before cutting?
Yes, allowing the cake or brownies to cool completely prevents them from crumbling when cut.
What type of chocolate is used for the curls?
The recipe recommends chocolate curls as a garnish to add elegance and extra chocolate flavor.