Warm Cocoa-Spiced Nut Tart with Cinnamon Cream

Experience a luxurious blend of rich cocoa, spiced nuts, and velvety cinnamon cream, all wrapped up in a warm, indulgent tart. This dessert captivates with its layered textures and deep, sweet flavors, making it a perfect choice for a special evening.

Ingredients

### For the Tart Crust:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 2-3 tbsp cold water

### For the Nut Filling:

• 1/2 cup mixed nuts (walnuts, pecans, and almonds)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

### For the Cinnamon Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Method

1. Prepare the Tart Crust:

- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt.

- Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- Gradually add cold water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.

- Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for 30 minutes.

1. Prepare the Nut Filling:

- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

- Spread mixed nuts on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 8 minutes. Cool and roughly chop.

- In a small saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt over medium heat. Stir until sugar dissolves.

- Add the nuts and stir to coat. Remove from heat.

1. Assemble and Bake:

- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch tart pan.

- Press the dough into the pan, trimming excess edges. Prick the bottom with a fork.

- Pour the nut mixture into the crust, spreading evenly.

- Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the edges are firm and the filling is bubbly.

- Let it cool slightly so it's warm but not hot.

1. Make the Cinnamon Cream:

- Beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and cinnamon until soft peaks form.

- Serve generous dollops atop warm slices of the tart.

Chef's Note

For an extra touch of decadence, drizzle a little melted dark chocolate over the served slices before adding the cinnamon cream.