Vegan Chocolate Orange Tart

You know that combo that makes you feel instantly sophisticated? Chocolate and orange.

It’s giving “fancy dinner party,” even if you’re just eating dessert in sweatpants. This Vegan Chocolate Orange Tart is rich, silky, slightly dramatic, and completely dairy-free. No cream. No butter. No eggs. Just pure chocolatey luxury with a bright citrus kick.

And the best part? It looks like it came from a high-end bakery… but it’s secretly very manageable. We love low-effort elegance.

Let’s make something that feels expensive but isn’t.

Why This Recipe Is Awesome

First: that filling. It’s smooth, glossy, and melt-in-your-mouth creamy. Like truffle-level smooth.

Second: orange zest + dark chocolate = elite flavor pairing. The citrus cuts through the richness so it never feels heavy.

Third: it’s no-bake (for the filling at least). Which means less stress and more confidence.

Also? It slices beautifully. Clean edges. Glossy top. Instagram-ready without even trying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

We’re keeping it simple but powerful.

For the Crust:

• 1½ cups crushed vegan chocolate cookies
• ¼ cup melted coconut oil
• 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for extra sweetness)
• Pinch of salt

For the Chocolate Orange Filling:

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
• 8 oz (about 225g) dark vegan chocolate (70% cocoa works great)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon orange zest – Do NOT skip this.
• 2 tablespoons fresh orange juice
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Tiny pinch of salt

Optional toppings:

• Extra orange zest
• Chocolate shavings
• Candied orange slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the crust.

Mix crushed cookies, melted coconut oil, maple syrup (if using), and salt in a bowl.

Press firmly into a tart pan (8–9 inches). Press up the sides too. Compact it well—this is your foundation.

Chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

2. Heat the coconut milk.

In a small saucepan, heat coconut milk until just steaming. Do not boil.

Remove from heat.

3. Melt the chocolate.

Place chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl.

Pour the hot coconut milk over it. Let sit for 2–3 minutes.

Stir gently until smooth and glossy.

4. Add flavor.

Stir in maple syrup, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla, and salt.

Taste it. Adjust sweetness or zest if needed.

5. Fill the tart.

Pour the chocolate mixture into the chilled crust.

Tap gently on the counter to remove air bubbles.

Refrigerate for at least 3–4 hours until fully set.

6. Decorate and slice.

Once firm, garnish with orange zest or chocolate shavings.

Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water for clean slices.

Admire the shine. You earned it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Boiling the coconut milk.
Too hot can cause the chocolate to split. Warm, not volcanic.

Using low-quality chocolate.
You’ll taste it. Choose good dark chocolate.

Skipping the chill time.
If you cut it early, it won’t hold shape. Patience = perfect slices.

Not pressing the crust firmly enough.
Loose crust = crumbly chaos.

Adding too much orange juice.
Too much liquid can affect the set. Stick to measurements.

Alternatives & Substitutions

• Nut-free crust? Use oat-based cookies instead of nut-based ones.
• No coconut milk? Use thick oat cream or soy cream.
• Extra intense chocolate? Use 80% dark chocolate.
• Sweeter version? Add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup.
• Mini tart option? Divide into small tart molds for individual servings.

IMO, a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top makes the chocolate flavor pop beautifully.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Does it taste like coconut?
Slightly, but the chocolate and orange dominate the flavor.

Can I freeze it to set faster?
Yes, but don’t leave it in too long. Once set, move it to the fridge.

Is it very sweet?
No, it’s more rich and balanced. You can adjust sweetness easily.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. It’s perfect for making the day before serving.

Why did my filling split?
The coconut milk was likely too hot or the chocolate quality was low.

Can I use milk chocolate?
Yes, but make sure it’s vegan. It will be sweeter and softer.

How should I store leftovers?
Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Chocolate Orange Tart is smooth, bold, and just dramatic enough to feel special. It’s rich without being overwhelming. Sweet without being cloying. Elegant without being complicated.

Make it for guests. Make it for celebrations. Or make it because you wanted chocolate and decided to be classy about it.

Slice it clean, serve it confidently, and enjoy every citrusy, chocolatey bite.

You just made a tart that looks like it belongs in a pastry shop window. Not bad at all.