The Sweet Side of Catering: Celebrating the Art of Chocolate
February and chocolate go hand in hand, and at Powerhouse Catering, we see it as more than just a sweet treat—it’s an art form. Whether it’s a decadent dessert for a romantic dinner or a chocolate-inspired menu for a special event, chocolate has a way of adding a touch of indulgence to any occasion.
This month, we’re diving into the artistry of chocolate and sharing one of our favorite recipes for a dessert that’s sure to impress.
The Magic of Chocolate in Catering
Chocolate is a caterer’s secret weapon. Its versatility allows it to shine in so many forms—from rich, velvety sauces to crisp chocolate shells filled with surprises. Here’s why we love working with it:
Flavor Pairings: Chocolate pairs beautifully with fruits, nuts, spices, and even savory ingredients like chili or sea salt.
Visual Appeal: From glossy ganaches to intricate truffles, chocolate desserts are show-stoppers on any table.
Universal Love: Let’s be honest—who doesn’t love chocolate?
A Decadent Recipe: Dark Chocolate Tart with Sea Salt
This dark chocolate tart is the perfect balance of sweet and sophisticated. With a buttery crust and a rich, silky filling, it’s a dessert that will leave your guests swooning.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
⅓ cup powdered sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1 egg yolk
1–2 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
8 oz high-quality dark chocolate, chopped (70% cocoa or higher)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Flaky sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
Make the Crust:
In a food processor, combine flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar. Add the butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg yolk and pulse. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Bake the Crust:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough and press it into a tart pan. Prick the bottom with a fork and line it with parchment paper. Fill with pie weights or dried beans.
Bake for 15 minutes, remove the weights, and bake for another 10 minutes. Let cool completely.
Prepare the Filling:
In a saucepan, heat the cream until just simmering. Remove from heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Stir in the butter and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Tart:
Pour the chocolate filling into the cooled crust. Smooth the top with a spatula and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until set.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt or fresh fruit just before serving. Slice and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Chocolate is more than a dessert—it’s an experience. At Powerhouse Catering, we love creating chocolate-inspired dishes that add a little indulgence to any event. Whether it’s a sweet bite at the end of a meal or a centerpiece dessert like this tart, chocolate has a way of making moments memorable.
Have a favorite chocolate recipe? Share it with us in the comments or tag us in your creations on Instagram—we’d love to see how you’re celebrating the art of chocolate this month!