Easy Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Easy Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts are a decadent yet simple dessert that combines a crisp tart shell with rich, gooey salted caramel and a silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a sweet-salty indulgence, they deliver impressive flavor with minimal effort.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourunsalted buttersugareggsvanilla extractsaltcaramel candies or homemade caramelheavy creamdark chocolate sea salt

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line mini tart pans.

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles crumbs. Add egg and vanilla, then mix until dough forms.

Press the dough evenly into tart pans. Prick the bottoms with a fork.

Bake the tart shells for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Let them cool completely.

Melt caramel candies with a splash of heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth.

Spoon the warm caramel into the tart shells. Let it set slightly.

Heat heavy cream until just simmering, then pour it over chopped dark chocolate. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth to make the ganache.

Pour the ganache over the caramel layer and smooth the tops.

Sprinkle each tart with a pinch of sea salt.

Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 mini tarts.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 10-12 minutesCooling and setting time: 60 minutesTotal time: 90 minutes

Variations

Use a cookie crust made from crushed Oreos or graham crackers for a quicker tart base.

Add chopped nuts or toffee bits on top for extra crunch.

Use milk chocolate instead of dark for a sweeter ganache.

Drizzle with white chocolate for a decorative finish.

storage/reheating

Store the tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.To enjoy warm, let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.Freezing is possible, but may alter the texture slightly. Wrap individually and thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, but make sure it’s thick enough to hold its shape in the tart shell.

Do I need tart pans?

Mini tart pans work best, but you can also use a muffin tin lined with parchment.

Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely—make them a day ahead and chill until ready to serve.

Why is my ganache grainy?

Be sure the cream isn’t too hot and stir gently until smooth.

Can I skip the sea salt?

Yes, but it balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate flavor.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Heavy cream is best for ganache, but whole milk can work in a pinch, though it may be thinner.

Can I make a large tart instead?

Yes, just increase the baking time slightly and use a standard 9-inch tart pan.

What chocolate should I use?

High-quality dark chocolate (60–70% cocoa) gives the best flavor and texture.

How long will they stay fresh?

Up to 5 days refrigerated, best eaten within 3 days for optimal texture.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, just skip the sea salt if your kids prefer a fully sweet treat.

Conclusion

Easy Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts are the perfect balance of rich chocolate, luscious caramel, and a hint of sea salt. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these tarts offer a bakery-quality dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether for a special event or an indulgent treat, they’re as satisfying to make as they are to eat.

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