Name: White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 3 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 ounces graham crackers (about 11 sheets); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 12 ounces cranberries, fresh or frozen; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1/2 cup water; 12 ounces white chocolate, chopped; 1/2 cup heavy or whipping cream; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; Sugared cranberries; Plain cranberries; Rosemary sprigs

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 74 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly blends tart and sweet flavors with a smooth, creamy texture, you’ve got to try this White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe. Its crispy graham cracker crust sets the stage for a tangy cranberry filling, all topped with a luscious white chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or simply treating yourself, this tart showcases the best of fresh cranberries against a backdrop of rich white chocolate, creating a harmony of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round tart with a thick, crumbly brown crust that forms the base and edges, holding a glossy, deep red fruit filling with visible chunks and a slightly uneven surface texture on top. The tart is placed on a silver tray with a decorative pattern on its edges, which rests on a white marbled surface. The tart is the main focus of the image, viewed from above, showing the smooth inner edge of the crust and the shiny, textured fruit filling in the center photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe relies on a handful of simple, straightforward ingredients—each playing a crucial role in building the final taste. From the buttery crunch of the graham cracker crust to the bright tartness of the cranberry filling and the smooth sweetness of the white chocolate ganache, every component matters.

Graham crackers (6 ounces or 11 sheets): These form a crisp and flavorful base that holds the tart together beautifully.
Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons for crust, 4 tablespoons for ganache): Butter adds richness and helps bind the crust and ganache for that silky finish.
Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons for crust, 1/2 cup for filling): Sweetness balances the tart cranberries and enhances the crust and filling flavors.
Fresh or frozen cranberries (12 ounces for filling): The star ingredient, providing a lively tartness and gorgeous ruby color.
Cornstarch (2 teaspoons for filling): Acts as a natural thickener to give the cranberry filling a perfect, sliceable consistency.
Water (1/2 cup for filling): Helps cook down the cranberries to create a luscious jam-like texture.
White chocolate (12 ounces, chopped for ganache): Provides a creamy, rich sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cranberries.
Heavy or whipping cream (1/2 cup for ganache): Adds velvety smoothness to the ganache, making it silky and indulgent.
Sugared cranberries (for garnish): Adds sparkling festivity and an extra burst of sweetness on top.
Plain cranberries (for garnish): For fresh tartness and a pop of color.
Rosemary sprigs (for garnish): Adds a fragrant herbal note and festive green contrast.

How to Make White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust

Start by crushing the graham crackers into fine crumbs; a food processor makes this quick, but a sealed bag and rolling pin work just as well. Stir in the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture holds together when pressed. Press the crust evenly into a tart pan with a removable bottom, making sure to cover the sides and bottom firmly. Chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the filling to help it set perfectly crisp.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently. The cranberries will pop and release their juices, and the mixture will thicken as it simmers—this usually takes about 10 minutes. Allow the filling to cool slightly before spreading it evenly over the chilled crust.

Step 3: Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache

Chop the white chocolate finely and place it in a heatproof bowl. Warm the heavy cream with the butter in a small saucepan until just simmering, then immediately pour over the white chocolate. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to melt, then gently whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy. Pour the ganache over the cranberry layer and spread it evenly. Chill the tart until the ganache is set, typically about 2 hours.

Step 4: Garnish and Final Touches

Once the ganache is firm, decorate the tart with sugared cranberries, plain cranberries, and small rosemary sprigs for a festive, elegant finish. The sugared cranberries add sparkle, while the rosemary introduces fresh aroma and beautiful contrast.

How to Serve White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe

The image shows a white, round cheesecake with a smooth, creamy pale-yellow top layer filling a crumbly, golden brown crust that circles the cake’s edge. The cheesecake is placed on a white plate with a wavy rim, set against a white marbled surface. A woman's hand is gently lifting a piece of the cheesecake. The top of the cheesecake is decorated with a neat arrangement of red cranberries and sprigs of green rosemary, grouped in a crescent shape on one side, adding a festive look with a touch of frosted sugar sparkle. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding sugared cranberries and rosemary sprigs not only makes the tart look stunning but also enhances the flavor with fresh, herbal notes and a sweet crunch. Plain cranberries complete the visual with their vivid red color, making every slice a showstopper.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs wonderfully with a light dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to complement the creamy white chocolate ganache. For a more festive spread, serve alongside spiced mulled wine or a crisp glass of champagne to balance the sweetness and tartness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual mini tarts using tartlet pans for intimate gatherings or holiday parties, making it easier for guests to enjoy. Another idea is to plate it with a drizzle of raspberry coulis or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and flavor complexity.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover tart covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the luscious flavors without compromise.

Freezing

If you want to prepare this White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe ahead of time, freezing is a good option. Wrap the tart securely in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

This tart is best enjoyed chilled, so rather than reheating, let it come to a cool room temperature to bring out the flavors fully. If you prefer the ganache slightly softer, leave it out for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cranberries for this tart?

Absolutely! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw them slightly before cooking the filling to help the ingredients meld smoothly.

Is it possible to make the white chocolate ganache dairy-free?

Yes, you can replace the heavy cream and butter with coconut cream and a dairy-free butter substitute. The texture may vary slightly, but the ganache will still be delightfully creamy and rich.

How long does it take to prepare this White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe?

From start to finish, including chilling times, plan for about 3 to 4 hours. Most of that is chilling, so active prep and cooking time is roughly an hour.

Can I use a different crust instead of graham crackers?

Of course! While graham crackers provide a classic, buttery flavor and crunchy texture, a digestive biscuit crust or even a shortbread crust would be tasty alternatives.

What is the best way to cut and serve the tart?

Use a sharp, thin-bladed knife dipped briefly in hot water to get clean slices. Wipe the knife between cuts for the prettiest presentation and to avoid dragging the ganache.

Final Thoughts

This White Chocolate Cranberry Tart Recipe has quickly become one of my absolute favorite desserts to make and share. The way the tart cranberries and creamy white chocolate ganache come together over a crisp crust is pure magic. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you’ll find it’s not only a beautiful centerpiece but also a memorable flavor experience that everyone will rave about!