Dark Chocolate Pecan Worms in Dirt Mousse Tart
A whimsical dessert combining rich dark chocolate mousse with a nutty pecan crust, perfect for Halloween celebrations.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups pecan halves
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Gummy worms (for garnish)
- Crushed chocolate cookies (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the tart shell by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, combine the pecan halves, graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Form the shell by pressing the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a tart pan. Ensure it’s even and compact.
- Bake the shell for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
- Make the mousse by melting the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 20-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
- Whip the cream by adding the heavy whipping cream, sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Whip until soft peaks form.
- Combine the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until no visible streaks remain, being careful not to deflate.
- Fill the tart shell with the mousse, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Chill for at least 2-3 hours or until set.
- Garnish with crushed chocolate cookies and gummy worms before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Use high-quality dark chocolate for the best flavor. Prep the tart shell a day in advance for convenience.