Ingredients
Base
- 200 g sponge/lady fingers
- 100 g unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp espresso powder/instant coffee
Ganache
- 250 g dark chocolate
- 300 ml double cream
- 1 tsp espresso powder/instant coffee
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 100 ml coffee liqueur
Topping
- 250 g full fat mascarpone
- 150 ml double cream
- 50 g icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 10 g cocoa powder
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Blitz the sponge fingers into fine crumbs and mix in the espresso powder. Combine this mixture with the melted butter thoroughly. Press the crumb mixture evenly into the base and sides of a loose-bottomed 9" tart tin to form the tart shell.
- Make the Ganache: Place the dark chocolate, double cream, espresso powder, and vanilla extract in a heatproof bowl. Heat the mixture in the microwave in short bursts, stirring well each time, until smooth and fully combined. Alternatively, set the bowl over a pan of simmering water and stir continuously until melted and smooth. Stir in the coffee liqueur, then pour the ganache over the biscuit base in the tart tin. Refrigerate the tart for 1-2 hours to set the ganache.
- Prepare the Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone, double cream, icing sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk the mixture until soft peaks form. Pipe or spread the mascarpone mixture evenly over the chilled chocolate ganache layer.
- Finish and Chill: Dust the top of the mascarpone layer generously with cocoa powder. Return the tart to the fridge for an additional 1-2 hours to allow the topping to set. Once set, carefully remove the tart from the tin and serve chilled.
Notes
- This tart keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3+ days, making it ideal for preparing ahead of time.
- The tart can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
- Using a 9" loose-bottomed tart tin is recommended to easily remove the tart without damaging its edges.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (including ganache melting and preparation)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian