Cranberry White Chocolate Tart

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This Cranberry White Chocolate Tart is one of my go-to desserts when I want something that looks impressive but doesn’t require complicated steps. The balance between the sweet, creamy white chocolate filling and the tangy burst of fresh cranberries is absolutely divine. It’s the kind of dessert that gets people talking — not just about how beautiful it looks, but about how unexpectedly delicious it is too.

I first made this tart around the holidays, and it’s become a bit of a winter tradition ever since. The vibrant ruby-red cranberry topping over the smooth white chocolate layer feels festive, but honestly, it’s a showstopper year-round. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just treating yourself, this tart brings a little celebration to any day.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry White Chocolate Tart

You’re going to love how simple yet sophisticated this tart is. It has that perfect contrast: buttery, crisp crust; rich, silky white chocolate; and a glossy cranberry topping that adds just the right amount of tartness. It’s also easy to make ahead, which means no stress if you’re entertaining.

What Kind of Crust Should I Use?

A classic buttery shortbread crust works wonders here. It holds up beautifully to the creamy filling and doesn’t overpower the other flavors. If you’re short on time, a store-bought tart shell can be used — but trust me, the homemade version adds that extra touch that makes a difference.

Options for Substitutions

• Fruit: Not a cranberry fan? Try raspberries or cherries for a slightly different twist.
• White Chocolate: You can swap in a mix of cream cheese and powdered sugar if you prefer a tangier filling.
• Crust: A graham cracker crust can give a slightly sweeter, softer base if you prefer that texture.
• Topping Herbs: The rosemary sprigs are optional but add a wonderful aromatic hint. Mint also works beautifully.

Ingredients for this Cranberry White Chocolate Tart

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the tart crust, giving it a sturdy, crisp texture.
• Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness to the crust without making it overly sugary.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps bind the crust; use cold butter for the best texture.
• Egg yolk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough, helping it come together smoothly.
• White chocolate chips or bar: The star of the filling, offering a creamy, sweet base that pairs perfectly with tart cranberries.
• Heavy cream: Used to melt the white chocolate and create a luscious, silky filling.
• Cream cheese: Adds tanginess and stabilizes the filling, balancing the sweetness of the white chocolate.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling.
• Fresh or frozen cranberries: Deliver a bright, tart contrast and that gorgeous red color.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cranberries and helps create a syrupy glaze.
• Water: Used to cook down the cranberries into a compote.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the cranberry topping to keep it from running.
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and enhances the natural tartness of the cranberries.
• Whipped cream (optional): For garnish and extra indulgence.
• Rosemary sprigs or mint leaves (optional): For decoration and a subtle aromatic note.

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Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

In a bowl, mix the flour and powdered sugar. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and mix until the dough begins to form. Press into a tart pan with a removable bottom and chill for 30 minutes.

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Step 2: Blind Bake the Crust

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights or beans. Bake for 15 minutes, remove weights and paper, and bake another 10-12 minutes until golden. Let cool completely.

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Step 3: Make the White Chocolate Filling

In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream just until simmering. Pour over chopped white chocolate and let sit for a minute. Stir until smooth. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until creamy, then mix in the white chocolate mixture and vanilla. Pour into the cooled crust and chill until set (about 2 hours).

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Step 4: Cook the Cranberry Topping

In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Simmer until berries burst and the mixture begins to thicken. Dissolve cornstarch in a tablespoon of water and stir in to thicken further. Cool the mixture slightly before pouring it over the chilled filling.

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Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Pour the cooled cranberry topping evenly over the white chocolate layer. Chill the tart for another hour to fully set. Before serving, pipe whipped cream along the edges and decorate with rosemary or mint sprigs for a festive finish.

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How Long to Prepare the Cranberry White Chocolate Tart

Prep Time: Preparing the tart crust, making the filling, and cooking the cranberry topping will take about 45 minutes in total. This includes hands-on work like mixing, baking the crust, and stirring the filling and topping.

Chilling Time: After assembling, the tart needs at least 2–3 hours to chill and set properly. This ensures clean slices and a firm structure. If you’re planning ahead, you can even let it set overnight.

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Tips for Perfect Cranberry White Chocolate Tart

• Use cold butter when making the crust to achieve that perfect shortbread texture.
• Don’t skip the blind bake step — it prevents a soggy bottom.
• Stir the white chocolate mixture constantly until smooth to avoid lumps.
• Chill each layer properly before adding the next for the cleanest finish.
• Taste your cranberries before cooking; if they’re extra tart, you may want to add a touch more sugar.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overheating the white chocolate: It can seize or burn easily. Always melt gently with hot cream, never directly over heat.
• Underbaking the crust: A pale crust means it may not hold up the filling well.
• Not cooling the cranberry topping: Pouring it on while hot can melt the white chocolate layer underneath.
• Skipping chilling time: The tart won’t set and will be messy to slice.
• Overmixing the filling: Once the chocolate and cream cheese are combined, mix just until smooth to avoid a grainy texture.

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What to Serve With Cranberry White Chocolate Tart?

1. Hot Mulled Wine

The warming spices pair beautifully with the tart cranberries and creamy filling.

2. Freshly Brewed Coffee or Espresso

Balances the sweetness of the tart with a touch of bitterness.

3. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A scoop on the side adds creaminess and a chill that contrasts the tart.

4. Sparkling Rosé

The bubbles and fruitiness elevate the tart without overpowering it.

5. Roasted Almonds or Candied Nuts

Add crunch to your dessert spread and complement the tart’s buttery crust.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store the tart in the fridge, covered loosely with plastic wrap or foil. It keeps well for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing: You can freeze the tart without the cranberry topping for up to one month. Wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and top with cranberry layer just before serving.

Make-Ahead: The crust and filling can be made a day in advance. Add the cranberry topping the day you plan to serve for the best texture and visual appeal.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per slice (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: ~360
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Sugar: 21g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 60mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

No, dried cranberries won’t give the same texture or tart-sweet flavor. Fresh or frozen cranberries are best for the topping.

Can I make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix to keep the crust crisp and delicious.

What type of white chocolate works best?

High-quality white chocolate bars (not chips) melt smoother and have a better flavor.

Can I use a store-bought crust?

Absolutely! It saves time — just ensure it’s pre-baked and cooled before filling.

How far in advance can I make this tart?

You can make it 1–2 days ahead. Keep it chilled and covered; garnish just before serving.

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Conclusion

The Cranberry White Chocolate Tart is a dessert that’s as elegant as it is comforting. Its layers of rich white chocolate cream, vibrant cranberry topping, and crisp buttery crust make it a standout treat for the holidays — or any time you want something extraordinary. With make-ahead convenience and a balance of flavors, it’s bound to become one of your favorite tart recipes.

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