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Spelt Orange and Dark Chocolate Tart

Side-angle close-up of a sliced Spelt Orange and Dark Chocolate Tart, showing the crisp spelt crust and smooth dark chocolate interior. Slice pulled slightly forward.

Bright Flavour, Simple Method

This tart brings together dark chocolate and fresh orange for a clean, balanced flavour. The spelt crust adds a light nutty note and stays crisp. The filling sets softly and slices neatly. Each step stays simple and clear, so you can prepare the recipe with ease.

Why This Tart Works

The chocolate and citrus pair well and keep the tart from tasting heavy. The spelt base holds its shape and gives a gentle texture. The filling uses basic ingredients and sets reliably in the fridge. The tart suits both casual meals and more polished occasions.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Rest Time 90 mins
Total Time 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine:
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 6
Estimated Cost: 7.50
Calories: 415
Best Season: Winter, Spring
Dietary: Vegetarian
Description

A smooth dark chocolate tart with fresh orange zest in a crisp spelt pastry base. The flavour stays bright yet rich, and the texture stays soft and clean to slice. This recipe delivers a simple method with a reliable finish.

Ingredients
    Spelt Crust
  • 155 g spelt flour (wholegrain)
  • 15 g cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 25 g sugar (caster)
  • ¼ tsp salt (fine)
  • 115 g unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
  • 1-2 tbsp cold water (as needed)
    • Orange Dark Chocolate Filling
  • 200 g dark chocolate (65–70%)
  • 180 ml double cream (heated)
  • 25 g, unsalted butter (soft)
  • 1 Zest of orange (fine)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure)
  • 1 pinch salt (fine)
Instructions
    Mix dry ingredients.
  1. 1
    Combine spelt flour, cocoa powder, caster sugar, and salt in a bowl.
    2. Add butter.
  2. 2
    Rub in the cold butter until the mix forms coarse crumbs.
    3. Add water.
  3. 3
    Add cold water slowly until the dough holds. Do not over-mix.
    4. Press into tin.
  4. 4
    Press the dough into a tart tin and level the surface.
    5. Chill and bake.
  5. 5
    Chill for 20 minutes, then bake at 175°C (350°F) for 18–20 minutes. Cool fully.
    6. Heat cream.
  6. 6
    Warm the cream until steaming but not boiling.
    7. Melt chocolate.
  7. 7
    Pour cream over chopped chocolate. Rest for 1 minute. Stir until smooth.
    8. Add flavour.
  8. 8
    Add butter, orange zest, vanilla, and salt. Mix until glossy.
    9. Fill tart.
  9. 9
    Pour filling into the cooled crust. Chill for at least 90 minutes.
    10. Serve.
  10. 10
    Slice with a warm knife for clean edges.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Amount Per Serving
Calories 415kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 29g45%
Saturated Fat 17g85%
Cholesterol 42mg15%
Sodium 82mg4%
Potassium 290mg9%
Total Carbohydrate 33g11%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 14g
Protein 6g12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Additional Notes

The filling sets softly and holds its shape after chilling. The crust can be prepared the day before and stored in the fridge.

Optional Substitutions & Variations

  • Swap orange zest for blood orange when in season.
  • Use 80% chocolate for a deeper flavour.
  • Add 1 tbsp orange liqueur for a sharper citrus finish.
  • Make it dairy-free: use coconut cream and vegan butter.
Keywords: spelt tart, chocolate orange tart, dark chocolate recipe, citrus dessert, easy tart

Tips & Variations

Make It Lighter or Stronger

Increase the orange zest for a sharper citrus edge, or reduce it for a deeper chocolate tone. You can add a thin layer of orange marmalade under the filling for extra brightness.

Adjust Texture

Use a slightly darker chocolate if you want a firmer set. Use a softer 60% chocolate if you want a smoother, silkier feel.

Conclusion

This tart offers a clean method and strong flavour with little effort. The mix of citrus and chocolate keeps each slice balanced. Give it a try and enjoy how simple the recipe feels in practice. Share it with friends or save it for a quiet evening treat.

Read it online: https://greatbritishspeltrecipes.com/recipe/spelt-orange-and-dark-chocolate-tart/
Valentina - Spelt Recipes
Valentina
A dietitian with a passion for spelt cooking. After trying different diets, I found spelt works best in my kitchen. Join me for simple, delicious recipes that bring out the best in this ancient grain!