Easy Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts are a luxurious dessert featuring a crisp tart shell filled with gooey salted caramel and topped with a rich, silky chocolate ganache. Perfect for parties, holidays, or indulgent treats, these tarts combine sweet, salty, and chocolatey flavors in an elegant and simple-to-make package. No fancy skills required—just decadent results every time.

ingredients

this Recipe

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

tart shells (store-bought or homemade)granulated sugarsalted butterheavy creamsea saltsemisweet or dark chocolate (chopped)heavy creamvanilla extractflaky sea salt (for garnish)

directions

Prepare your tart shells according to package instructions or your preferred recipe. Let them cool completely.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns into an amber-colored caramel.

Add the salted butter and stir until melted and combined.

Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly (it will bubble), then cook for 1–2 more minutes until smooth.

Stir in sea salt and let the caramel cool slightly.

Pour the caramel into the tart shells, filling them halfway. Let set in the fridge for 20–30 minutes.

Heat the heavy cream for the chocolate ganache until just about to boil.

Pour the hot cream over chopped chocolate and let sit for 1–2 minutes, then stir until smooth and glossy.

Stir in vanilla extract, then pour over the caramel layer in each tart.

Chill for 1 hour or until set. Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6–8 small tarts or one 9-inch tart.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesChilling time: 1 hour 30 minutesTotal time: 2 hours

Variations

Use milk chocolate for a sweeter ganache.

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

Swap caramel for peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

Use gluten-free tart shells to make this recipe gluten-free.

storage/reheating

Store the tarts in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.Bring to room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving for best texture.Do not freeze, as the caramel and ganache may change texture.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, but homemade caramel offers better flavor and texture.

Do I have to use dark chocolate?

No, semisweet or milk chocolate work too, depending on your taste preference.

How do I prevent the caramel from hardening?

Don’t overcook it; just simmer until smooth and slightly thickened.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them a day in advance and chill until ready to serve.

What if I don’t have tart pans?

Use a muffin tin lined with parchment or cupcake liners as an alternative.

How do I get clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped dry between cuts.

Why is my ganache grainy?

The chocolate may have seized. Be sure the cream is hot and stir gently until smooth.

Can I omit the salt?

Yes, but the salted caramel contrast is part of what makes these tarts special.

Are these kid-friendly?

Yes, although you can reduce the salt if needed for a sweeter version.

Can I make mini tartlets?

Absolutely—just adjust the filling quantities and chill time accordingly.

Conclusion

Easy Chocolate Salted Caramel Tarts are a showstopping dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. With their rich layers of caramel and ganache in a crisp shell, each bite delivers sweet-salty satisfaction. Whether you’re entertaining or treating yourself, these tarts are guaranteed to impress and indulge.

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