When it comes to desserts that dazzle, nothing hits the mark quite like the Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart. With its buttery chocolate crust, silky dark chocolate ganache, and golden salted caramel center, this tart is the ultimate trifecta of flavor: sweet, salty, and sinfully rich.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a celebratory gathering, or simply looking to spoil yourself with something outrageously delicious, this tart delivers on every front. It’s elegant enough for a formal occasion and indulgent enough to satisfy the most intense chocolate cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Tart
The Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart isn’t just a dessert — it’s an experience. Here’s why it stands out as a showstopper:
- 🍫 Ultra-rich chocolate ganache that melts in your mouth
- 🧈 Lush caramel filling that’s perfectly sweet with a buttery finish
- 🧂 A sprinkle of sea salt to heighten every flavor
- 🥧 A crisp, cocoa-infused crust that adds structure and contrast
- ✨ Stunning presentation — glossy ganache and flecks of sea salt make it a centerpiece
- 🎂 Make-ahead friendly and surprisingly simple with a few key steps
This tart proves that a few high-quality ingredients can go a long way in creating a dessert that feels gourmet and comforting all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this masterpiece — broken down into its irresistible layers:
For the Chocolate Tart Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed for deep color and flavor)
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1–2 tablespoons ice water, as needed
For the Salted Caramel Filling:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, or to taste
For the Chocolate Ganache Topping:
- 8 oz dark chocolate, finely chopped (60–70% cacao works best)
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, for shine and richness
- Extra flaky sea salt, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Chocolate Tart Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a food processor, combine the flour, cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Pulse in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and just enough ice water to bring the dough together.
Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom. Prick the base with a fork and chill for 15 minutes. Bake for 18–20 minutes until firm. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until it melts into a golden-brown liquid. Add butter and stir until incorporated (it will bubble — be careful!). Slowly whisk in the cream and let simmer for 1–2 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in the salt, and pour the caramel into the cooled tart crust. Chill for 30–45 minutes, or until the caramel is firm but not hard.
3. Make the Ganache
Heat the cream until just simmering, then pour over the chopped chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for 2–3 minutes, then stir gently until smooth. Stir in the butter for extra silkiness.
Pour the ganache over the chilled caramel layer, smoothing it out with a spatula. Chill again for at least 1 hour, or until set.
4. Finish with Sea Salt
Just before serving, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top of the tart. This not only adds sparkle and texture but enhances the chocolate and caramel flavors in every bite.
Tips for Tart Perfection
- Use high-quality chocolate for the ganache — it makes a big difference.
- Don’t rush the caramel — let the sugar melt slowly and watch closely to avoid burning.
- For cleaner slices, warm a sharp knife under hot water before cutting.
- Chill between each layer to ensure clean separation and smooth textures.
- Add a swirl of whipped cream or crème fraîche for a luscious serving touch.
Serving Suggestions
This tart is rich — a little goes a long way. Serve small slices with:
- 🍷 A glass of red wine or port
- ☕ A shot of espresso or cappuccino
- 🍓 Fresh berries on the side
- 🥂 A sparkling dessert wine for special occasions
How to Store It
The Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart stores beautifully:
- Refrigerate covered for up to 5 days
- Freeze individual slices (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months — just thaw in the fridge overnight
- Bring to room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture
Variations to Try
Craving a little twist? Here are some fun ways to customize your tart:
- 🌰 Add chopped pecans or toasted hazelnuts to the caramel layer for crunch
- 🌶️ Sprinkle with a pinch of chili powder or cayenne for a spicy kick
- 🍊 Infuse the ganache with orange zest for a citrus-chocolate delight
- 🥃 Add a splash of bourbon or espresso to the caramel for grown-up flair
- 🥥 Use a coconut crust for a tropical-inspired twist
A Dessert That Deserves a Standing Ovation
With its layers of luscious caramel and rich ganache nestled in a crisp chocolate crust, this Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart is a true labor of love — and one that pays off tenfold in taste and presentation.
Every bite is a harmony of creamy, salty, sweet, and smooth. It’s a dessert that whispers luxury, celebrates contrast, and satisfies on every level. Whether you’re making it for a dinner party, a holiday, or a “just because” moment, this tart promises to be the highlight of the table.