Print

Pomegranate Curd and Orange Tarts

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Pomegranate Curd and Orange Tarts are stunning mini desserts featuring a tart, jewel-toned pomegranate curd in a rich chocolate crust, garnished with fresh pomegranate arils and vibrant orange zest. These elegant, plant-based tarts are perfect for holiday tables, dinner parties, or winter-inspired bakes.

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Tart Crust:

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/4 cup cocoa powder

  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar

  • 1/2 cup cold vegan butter (or regular), cubed

  • 2-3 tablespoons cold water

For the Pomegranate Curd:

  • 3/4 cup fresh pomegranate juice

  • 1/4 cup orange juice

  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch

  • 2 tablespoons vegan butter (or regular)

  • Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

  • 1/2 cup pomegranate arils

  • 1 tablespoon orange zest

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar.

  2. Add cubed cold butter and blend using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture is crumbly.

  3. Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until a dough forms.

  4. Press dough evenly into mini tart pans and chill for 10 minutes.

  5. Prick the bases with a fork and bake for 12–15 minutes. Let cool completely.

  6. Meanwhile, make the curd by whisking pomegranate juice, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, cornstarch, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat.

  7. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in butter.

  8. Let curd cool slightly, then spoon into cooled tart shells.

  9. Chill in the fridge for 1–2 hours until set.

  10. Just before serving, top each tart with pomegranate arils and a sprinkle of orange zest.


Notes

  • For a smoother curd, strain it through a sieve before pouring into shells.

  • Use fresh pomegranate juice for the brightest flavor.

  • Can be made a day in advance—garnish just before serving.

  • Optional: add a pinch of cardamom for a warm spice note.