If you’ve been searching for the ultimate sweet-and-salty showstopper, look no further than this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart. Imagine a chocolatey graham cracker crust cradling layers of buttery caramel and luscious chocolate ganache, all generously sprinkled with chocolate chips and flaky sea salt. Each bite is a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that’s as elegant as it is delicious. Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing friends at your next gathering, this tart is sure to become a new favorite in your dessert lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this tart is just how accessible and familiar the ingredients are, yet how decadent and layered they taste together. Each component plays a vital role in building the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart’s bold flavors and stunning presentation.
- Chocolate graham cracker crumbs (1 1/2 cups): Bring a deep chocolatey flavor and the perfect crunchy base for your tart.
- Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, melted): Binds the crust while adding richness and melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon, plus 1/2 cup): Adds sweetness and helps achieve the glassy caramel in the filling.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances flavors and lifts up the chocolate in the crust.
- Water (2 tablespoons): Helps the sugar dissolve evenly for a smooth, silky caramel.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, room temperature): Enriches and thickens the caramel layer.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup, warm): Makes the caramel ultra creamy and dreamy.
- Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Rounds out the caramel with a sweet aroma.
- Flaky sea salt (1/4 teaspoon plus more for topping): A pinch in the caramel and a sprinkle on top for a dramatic finishing touch.
- Mini chocolate chips (3/4 cup): Offer bursts of chocolate in every bite and a fun contrast in texture.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup, for ganache): Ensures your chocolate ganache is silky and smooth.
- Semi-sweet chocolate (4 oz, chopped): Melts into the cream creating that glossy, rich ganache layer.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a medium bowl and stir together the chocolate graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of your 9-inch tart pan to create an even base. Bake for 8–10 minutes until set and slightly darker, then let cool while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar and 2 tablespoons water over medium heat. Gently stir until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let the mixture bubble away undisturbed. Watch for a deep amber color to form (after about 8–10 minutes). Remove from heat and, working steadily, whisk in the 2 tablespoons softened butter until melted. Slowly add the warm cream, whisking continuously (it will bubble up), then stir in the vanilla and 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt. Let the caramel cool for 10 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Fill and Chill
Pour your just-made caramel straight into the cooled tart shell, spreading it evenly. Before it sets, generously sprinkle the mini chocolate chips over the top so they gently melt into the warm caramel, creating surprise bites of chocolate inside the tart. Slide the whole thing into your fridge for 30–40 minutes until the caramel firms up nicely.
Step 4: Make the Chocolate Ganache
For the final, luxurious layer, heat 1/2 cup heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it starts simmering—don’t let it boil. Pour the hot cream over the chopped semi-sweet chocolate in a bowl and let it sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes. Then, stir slowly from the center out until you have a shiny, smooth ganache. Pour this over the chilled caramel layer, smoothing with a spatula to reach the edges, and finish by showering the top with extra flaky sea salt.
Step 5: Chill and Slice
Refrigerate your Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better if you can resist) to ensure each layer is firm and sliceable. When ready to serve, cut into wedges with a sharp knife—each piece will reveal luscious layers sure to wow anyone lucky enough to taste.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart
Garnishes
The finishing touch is absolutely everything! Sprinkle fresh flaky sea salt on each slice just before serving to highlight the caramel, or try a dusting of cocoa powder for a dramatic look. For a more decadent twist, add a few extra mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts for crunch and color.
Side Dishes
This tart pairs beautifully with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, cold contrast is heavenly against the tart’s rich, buttery layers. For something lighter, a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries on the side helps cut through the sweetness and brightens up your dessert plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Get a little playful by slicing the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart into slim bars and serving on a fancy platter, or cut into bite-sized squares for a crowd-friendly dessert tray. You can also drizzle each serving with warm dulce de leche or even a little espresso for a gourmet touch that will truly impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The good news is that this tart stores like a dream. Simply wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container, then keep it chilled in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it perfect for indulging in a little slice of bliss whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead or save a few pieces for another day, this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart freezes well. Slice, wrap each piece individually, and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. To serve, thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator—just note that the texture of the caramel will be a touch softer once thawed, but no less delicious.
Reheating
While the tart is at its best chilled or at room temperature, if you like it just slightly warm, pop a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. The ganache will soften and the caramel may ooze just a bit, creating an absolutely decadent treat. Be careful not to overheat, as the chocolate can separate.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! If you prefer a darker, more intense chocolate flavor, bittersweet chocolate works beautifully. Milk chocolate will give you a sweeter ganache. Just keep the measurements the same for a reliable set.
My caramel seized or hardened—what should I do?
If the caramel turns grainy or hard, don’t worry. Gently warm it and whisk in a splash more cream to smooth it out. Make sure to use warm cream and not to rush the process for best results.
Can this tart be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free chocolate graham crackers for the crust, and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. The taste and texture will be just as decadent.
Is it possible to make mini tarts instead of one large tart?
Definitely! Just divide the crust and fillings among smaller tart pans or even muffin tins lined with parchment. Keep an eye on the baking time for the crust as it will need a couple minutes less.
How far in advance can I make the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart?
This tart is ideal for prepping ahead. You can assemble and chill it a full day in advance, leaving just the garnishes for serving. In fact, the flavors meld and slice even better after a night in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s a total knockout but still easy enough for a cozy night in, this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart deserves a spot in your kitchen. Every layer is sheer joy to make and even more fun to eat. Give it a try—you might just find yourself baking it on repeat and becoming the dessert hero at your next gathering!
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Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes (plus chilling)
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart. A buttery graham cracker crust filled with luscious salted caramel, topped with mini chocolate chips, and finished with a silky chocolate ganache. This no-bake dessert is a perfect combination of sweet and salty that will impress any crowd.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups chocolate graham cracker crumbs
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Salted Caramel:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, warm
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt, plus more for topping
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache)
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, sugar, and salt. Press into a tart pan and bake for 8–10 minutes.
- Make the Salted Caramel: Heat sugar and water in a saucepan until amber in color. Whisk in butter, then cream. Stir in vanilla and sea salt. Pour into the tart shell and chill.
- Create the Ganache: Heat cream until simmering, then pour over chopped chocolate. Stir until smooth. Spread over the set caramel layer and chill for at least 2 hours.
Notes
- You can make this tart a day ahead and store it chilled.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts on top with the sea salt.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake (with baked crust)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 29g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
