Gluten-Free Chocolate Ganache Tarts

Prep: 30 minCook: 25 min1 tart (6 slices)mediumAmerican
Chocolate Ganache Tarts with Coconut Macaroon Crust

Decadent chocolate ganache nestled in a naturally sweet coconut macaroon crust creates an irresistible dessert that's both elegant and satisfying. The crispy, golden coconut shell provides delightful textural contrast to the silky smooth chocolate filling. Perfect for special occasions or when you want to impress guests with a sophisticated treat. The coconut milk ganache delivers rich chocolate flavor while the toasted coconut garnish adds a finishing touch of tropical sweetness.

Ingredients

Yield: 1 tart (6 slices)
  • 2 egg whites, room temperature
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ cup honey or maple syrup
    maple syrup1:1vegan

    both work equally well

    Full guide →
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups shredded coconut
    heavy cream1:1dairyadds dairy

    creates traditional ganache

    Full guide →
  • 1 cup canned coconut milk or coconut cream
    heavy cream1:1dairyadds dairy

    creates traditional ganache

    Full guide →
  • 10 oz dark chocolate, chopped
    semi-sweet chocolate1:1milder

    slightly less intense flavor

    Full guide →
  • ¼ cup flaked coconut, toasted
    almond flour2:1nuttexture

    completely different crust texture

    Full guide →

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 325 degrees F and lightly grease mini tart pans or one larger tart pan

  2. 2

    Whip egg whites and salt until stiff peaks form

  3. 3

    Add honey and vanilla extract then fold in shredded coconut until completely combined

  4. 4

    Press coconut mixture into tart pans including sides

  5. 5

    Place on baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown

  6. 6

    Place dark chocolate in a bowl

  7. 7

    Microwave coconut milk for 1 minute until bubbling

  8. 8

    Pour hot coconut milk over chocolate and let stand for 2 minutes

  9. 9

    Whisk until smooth

  10. 10

    Divide chocolate filling between tart pans and shake gently to even out

  11. 11

    Garnish with toasted coconut

  12. 12

    Cool in refrigerator for 2 hours before serving

Tips

Tip 1

Make sure egg whites are at room temperature for best whipping results and completely grease tart pans to prevent sticking

Tip 2

Use full-fat canned coconut milk for the richest ganache texture and let it cool completely before serving for clean slices

Tip 3

Toast the coconut garnish in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden for enhanced flavor

Good to Know

Storage

Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days

Make Ahead

Crust can be made 1 day ahead, ganache added day of serving

Serve With

Serve chilled directly from refrigerator

Common Mistakes

Watch

Don't overwhip egg whites or they'll become grainy and won't fold properly with coconut

Watch

Avoid overheating coconut milk as it may curdle when poured over chocolate

Substitutions

Dairy-Free Swaps

coconut milk
heavy cream1:1dairyadds dairy

creates traditional ganache

Full guide →

Vegan Options

honey
maple syrup1:1vegan

both work equally well

Full guide →

General Alternatives

dark chocolate
semi-sweet chocolate1:1milder

slightly less intense flavor

Full guide →
shredded coconut
almond flour2:1nuttexture

completely different crust texture

Full guide →
Find more substitutions →

FAQ

Can I make these in regular muffin tins instead?

Yes, press the coconut mixture into greased muffin cups and adjust baking time to 15-20 minutes until golden.

What if my ganache doesn't come together smoothly?

Let it sit longer to melt completely, then whisk vigorously. If still grainy, warm gently in microwave for 10-15 seconds.

How long will these keep in the refrigerator?

Covered tarts will stay fresh for up to 3 days, though the crust may soften slightly over time.