0 Shares

The first hint of sweetness wafts through the air as I lift the lid on my pot, and suddenly the comforting scent of melting butter and brown sugar makes its way into my kitchen. I never thought I could whip up a dessert that feels so indulgent but requires so little effort—enter my Salted Caramel Tart. This show-stopping dessert showcases creamy caramel that melts in your mouth, all beautifully nestled within a buttery biscuit crust. With just six ingredients and no need for a candy thermometer, this tart is the perfect solution for anyone looking to escape the blandness of fast food desserts.

Picture this: a gathering of friends, laughter filling the room, and the moment someone takes a bite. Eyes widen with delight as they savor the rich flavors of the luscious chocolate ganache atop the silky caramel. It’s the kind of dessert that sets the stage for conversation—and it’s easier to make than you’d expect! Grab your mixing bowl, and let’s create something extraordinary that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why love this Salted Caramel Tart?

Simplicity at Its Best: This Salted Caramel Tart requires just six ingredients and no candy thermometer, making it perfect for home cooks of any skill level.

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and salty combination of caramel and chocolate ganache creates an explosion of rich, indulgent flavors that are hard to resist.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Impress your guests at any gathering—watch their faces light up with joy as they experience this decadent dessert!

Versatile Creation: Customize it with flavored biscuits in the crust or even add a fruity twist beneath the ganache for a fresh contrast.

Make-Ahead Marvel: This tart can be made ahead of time and stored, ensuring you have a stunning dessert ready for spur-of-the-moment celebrations.

Salted Caramel Tart Ingredients

For the Crust

Plain Sweet Biscuits – Use Arnott’s Marie Crackers or Graham Crackers for a buttery base.
Unsalted Butter (for crust) – Binds the crumbs together; substitute with more buttery biscuits like Digestives for a rich crust.

For the Caramel Filling

Unsalted Butter (for caramel) – Adds depth and richness to the creamy caramel.
Brown Sugar – Ensures the caramelized flavor, tightly packed for the right sweetness.
Sweetened Condensed Milk – The star ingredient for a creamy caramel without needing a candy thermometer.
Salt – Balances the sweetness; adjust according to your preference.

For the Topping

Thickened Cream (Heavy Cream) – Crucial for achieving a smooth, velvety chocolate ganache.
Dark Chocolate Melts/Chips – Forms a luxurious ganache, enhancing the tart’s richness.
Sea Salt Flakes – Optional garnish that elevates the flavor profile of the decadent salted caramel tart.

How to Make Salted Caramel Tart

Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a tart tin. Line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Make the Tart Base: Blitz plain sweet biscuits in a food processor until they become fine crumbs. Mix with melted butter until it resembles wet sand, and then press this mixture firmly into the tart tin. Bake for 10 minutes, then let cool slightly.
Create the Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter, then whisk in the brown sugar until bubbling. Gradually stir in the sweetened condensed milk while whisking continuously until steaming, about 4 minutes. Add salt, mix well, and pour into the cooled tart base.
Bake the Caramel: Place the tart in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center jiggles slightly.
Prepare the Chocolate Ganache: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt dark chocolate and thickened cream together in short bursts. Stir until smooth and slightly thickened, then pour over the baked caramel layer, smoothing out the surface. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt.
Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the tart for 1.5 hours until fully set. Before serving, bring to room temperature for that creamy caramel experience.

Optional: Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These tempting Salted Caramel Tart creations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the tart base up to 24 hours in advance; simply press the biscuit mixture into the tin and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. The caramel filling can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just allow it to come to room temperature before pouring it into the crust. For the chocolate ganache, whip it up and pour it over the caramel and refrigerate the tart for 1.5 hours before serving. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready with minimal last-minute effort!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Tart

Steam Stage Check: Ensure the caramel reaches the steaming stage while cooking to achieve the perfect smooth consistency for your Salted Caramel Tart.
Press Firmly: Use a measuring cup or a flat object to press the biscuit mixture more firmly into the tart tin. This helps create an even, well-structured crust.
Cool Before Slicing: Let the tart cool completely before slicing. Cutting it too soon can cause the caramel to run, which can make serving a challenge.
Warm Sea Salt: Sprinkle sea salt on the ganache while it’s still slightly warm. This ensures better adherence and enhances the flavor of the tart.
Storage Tips: Keep your leftover tart in an airtight container—it’s best enjoyed within a week, but can also be frozen for longer enjoyment!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Tart?

Enhance your Salted Caramel Tart experience with these delightful pairing ideas that balance flavors and textures.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy contrast to the tart’s richness, making every bite heavenly.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries bring a vibrant tartness that elevates the overall sweetness of the caramel.
Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream to introduce a creamy, cold element that complements the warmth of the tart beautifully.
Espresso: The rich, bold flavors of a freshly brewed espresso create a lavish contrast, making for a delightful dessert experience. Sip alongside each bite!
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle additional chocolate sauce over the tart for an extra touch of indulgence; this decadent combination will thrill chocolate lovers.
Nuts: Toasted pecans or hazelnuts provide a satisfying crunch, introducing a nutty flavor that pairs well with the caramel’s smoothness.
Mint Leaves: A sprig of fresh mint as a garnish offers a cool, fragrant element that refreshes the palate between bites.
Caramel Sauce: For the ultimate sweet treat, drizzle some homemade caramel sauce over the top just before serving, enhancing the tart’s existing flavors.
Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings over the ganache for a rich, sophisticated touch that visually pleases and intensifies the chocolate experience.

Salted Caramel Tart Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutions that will make your Salted Caramel Tart uniquely yours!

Spiced Crust: Swap out plain sweet biscuits for ginger or spiced cookies, adding a warm kick to your tart. The aromatic spices create a cozy contrast to the sweet caramel.
Milk Chocolate Ganache: For a sweeter touch, use milk chocolate instead of dark chocolate in the ganache. It will give a creamier texture and a more indulgent experience that’s universally loved.
Nutty Addition: Incorporate crushed nuts like toasted pecans or hazelnuts into the crust for an extra layer of crunch and flavor. Their nutty goodness pairs beautifully with both the caramel and chocolate.
Fruit Layer: Add a layer of fresh raspberries or sliced bananas beneath the ganache for a fruity twist that brightens the entire dessert. The tartness of the fruit balances the rich sweetness perfectly.
Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream for coconut cream to make a dairy-free version. The coconut adds a tropical flair, elevating the caramel tart with unique, rich flavors.
Sea Salt Caramel: Instead of regular salt, experiment with flavored sea salt, like smoked or herb-infused, for a gourmet touch that enhances the tart’s natural flavors.
Double Chocolaty: Fold in some chocolate chips into the caramel filling before baking for a gooey, chocolaty surprise with every bite. This extra richness will have everyone coming back for more!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the caramel to introduce a surprising heat that contrasts delightfully with the sweet caramel. It’s sure to be a conversation starter!

Get creative and make this dessert your own masterpiece!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Tart

Fridge: Store your Salted Caramel Tart in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the tart for 1-2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to avoid freezer burn.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For a creamy texture, bring it to room temperature before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm slice, gently heat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain the soft caramel texture.

Salted Caramel Tart Recipe FAQs

What type of biscuits should I use for the tart crust?
You can use plain sweet biscuits like Arnott’s Marie Crackers or Graham Crackers for a deliciously buttery base. If you prefer a richer flavor, crushed Digestives can also be a delightful option.

How should I store my Salted Caramel Tart?
Store your Salted Caramel Tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. This helps retain its decadent flavors and keeps it fresh. Ensure the container is sealed well to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odors.

Can I freeze the Salted Caramel Tart?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept frozen for 1 to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and let it sit at room temperature before serving for that perfect creamy texture.

What should I do if my caramel doesn’t thicken properly?
If your caramel isn’t thickening, ensure that you’ve heated it until it reaches the steaming stage, approximately 4 minutes of continuous whisking after adding the sweetened condensed milk. If it still seems too runny, you can bake it a little longer in the tart shell or allow it to cool at room temperature to help it set.

Is this tart suitable for everyone (allergies, pets, etc.)?
The Salted Caramel Tart contains dairy (butter, cream, and condensed milk) and gluten (from the biscuits), so it’s not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivities. Feel free to substitute with gluten-free biscuits and dairy alternatives if you’re looking for allergen-friendly options. However, keep it out of reach of pets, especially dogs, as ingredients like chocolate can be harmful to them.

How long does the tart last once it’s made?
Once prepared and stored correctly, your Salted Caramel Tart can last up to one week in the fridge. If you choose to freeze it, remember it’s best enjoyed within 1 to 2 months of freezing to maintain its exquisite flavor and texture.