Decadent Chocolate Salted Caramel Tart Recipe

The Chocolate Salted Caramel Tart is a dessert that combines rich flavors and elegant presentation in every slice. It features a crisp cookie crust, a smooth and buttery caramel layer, and a glossy dark chocolate ganache topping. The touch of sea salt enhances the sweetness and balances the richness, creating a dessert that feels both indulgent and refined.

This tart is ideal for gatherings, special occasions, or as a make-ahead treat when you want something impressive without requiring complicated techniques. With a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks bakery-quality but is completely homemade.

Why You’ll Love This Tart

• Balanced Flavors: The sweetness of caramel is perfectly matched with the richness of dark chocolate and a hint of salt.
• Texture Perfection: A crunchy crust, smooth caramel, and silky ganache give every bite a satisfying contrast.
• Elegant but Simple: While it looks stunning, the recipe uses straightforward steps and common ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The tart sets beautifully in the refrigerator, making it a great choice for preparing in advance.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether served at a dinner party, holiday gathering, or as a special weekend dessert, it always impresses.

Ingredients Needed

To make a Chocolate Salted Caramel Tart that’s rich and perfectly balanced, you’ll need a few simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays an important role in the flavor and texture of the tart:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs (or crushed chocolate cookies): This forms the crisp and sturdy base that holds the tart together. Chocolate cookies create a deeper flavor, while graham crackers keep it lighter.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: The butter binds the crumbs, creating a firm crust that sets after baking.

For the Caramel Layer:

• 1 cup granulated sugar: The base for a classic caramel, giving it that deep golden sweetness.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed: Adds richness and smooth texture to the caramel filling.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a silky consistency and helps balance the sweetness.
• 1 tsp sea salt: Enhances the caramel flavor and provides that signature sweet-salty contrast.

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 4 oz dark chocolate, chopped: Provides a bold, slightly bitter balance to the sweet caramel.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: When heated and combined with chocolate, it creates a glossy and smooth ganache topping.

For Garnish:

• Sea salt flakes: Sprinkled on top before serving, these flakes add crunch, flavor contrast, and a beautiful finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create each layer and assemble your tart successfully:

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs (or crushed cookies) with melted butter until the mixture is evenly moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Use the back of a spoon or the bottom of a glass for an even layer.
4. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer

1. In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it melts completely and turns a deep amber color.
2. Add the cubed butter carefully—it will bubble vigorously. Stir until the butter has melted into the sugar.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly until the caramel is smooth and combined.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
5. Let the caramel cool for about 10 minutes, then pour it evenly into the cooled crust. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour until set.

Step 3: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

1. Place the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
2. Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it begins to simmer (avoid boiling).
3. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes to soften.
4. Stir slowly until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture becomes smooth and glossy.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

1. Pour the ganache over the chilled caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Place the tart back into the refrigerator for about 1 hour until the ganache is firm and set.
3. Before serving, sprinkle with sea salt flakes for a finishing touch.
4. Slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

Tips & Variations

• Crust Options: Try Oreo cookies or digestive biscuits for a deeper chocolate flavor.
• Chocolate Choice: Use semi-sweet or milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter topping.
• Serving Tip: Serve chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before slicing for a softer texture.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.