A Decadent Italian-Inspired Dessert That’s Easy to Make and Impossible to Resist
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both rustic and elegant, Torta Nera, also known as Italian chocolate walnut tart, is your new go-to. With a deeply rich chocolate filling, crunchy walnuts, and a tender, buttery crust, this classic treat is as comforting as it is impressive. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy Sunday meal, or simply to satisfy a chocolate craving, this easy chocolate walnut tart brings flavor, texture, and old-world charm to the table.
📝 Ingredients
For the Tart Crust:
- 1 ¼ cups (150g) all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup (30g) powdered sugar
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1–2 tablespoons cold water
For the Chocolate-Walnut Filling:
- ¾ cup (100g) chopped walnuts
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (120g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 100g (about 3.5 oz) dark chocolate (70%), melted
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Make the Tart Crust:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar.
- Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of cold water. Combine gently until the mixture just begins to form a soft, pliable dough, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender crust. If it feels crumbly or won’t hold together, drizzle in a bit more cold water—one teaspoon at a time—until the texture is just right.
- Shape the dough into a flat disk, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Stir in the cocoa powder, flour, and salt.
- Add the melted butter and melted chocolate, mixing until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts.
3. Assemble and Bake:
- Gently roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s large enough to line a 9-inch (23 cm) tart pan. Ease it into the pan, pressing it firmly along the bottom and sides, then trim away any overhanging edges. Prick the base lightly with a fork.
- Pour the chocolate-walnut filling into the crust and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the filling has set and the top looks slightly puffed with a gentle sheen.
- Allow the tart to cool fully in the pan to help it firm up, making it easier to remove and slice cleanly.
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💡 Tips & Variations
- Nut Variations: Swap walnuts for pecans or hazelnuts if you prefer, or mix different types for a more complex flavor.
- Crust Alternatives: Use a store-bought tart shell for convenience, or try a chocolate cookie crust for extra indulgence.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar, pair it with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, or add a generous swirl of freshly whipped cream for an elegant finish.
- Storage: Keep the tart fresh by placing it in an airtight container. It will stay good at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm gently before serving to revive its soft, rich texture.
- Make Ahead: Both the dough and the filling can be made a day ahead and assembled just before baking.
🍫 Conclusion
Torta Nera is the perfect fusion of simplicity and sophistication. Its rich chocolate flavor, nutty crunch, and tender crust make it a standout dessert for any occasion—from holiday dinners to casual get-togethers. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make! So why not give this Italian chocolate walnut tart a try? Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you.
