Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate indulgence: the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe. This exquisite dessert flawlessly combines a buttery, tender crust studded with mini chocolate chips, a luscious salted caramel layer that offers just the right hint of sea salt, and a silky chocolate ganache topping. Every bite is a perfectly balanced harmony of sweet, salty, and rich chocolate, making it your new favorite showstopper for family gatherings, dinner parties, or whenever you crave something truly decadent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe come together simply but purposefully. Each component contributes to the overall texture, flavor, and inviting appearance of this tart, ensuring every element sings in harmony.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the crust, providing structure and tenderness.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: A gentle leavening agent for a light crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors in the crust and caramel.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings rich creaminess and flakiness to the crust.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning in the crust and caramel.
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Contributes moisture and deep molasses notes to the crust.
- 1 large egg: Binds the crust ingredients together perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A hint of warmth that lifts every flavor.
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips: Embedded in the crust for delightful bursts of chocolate in every bite.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel): The base of the rich salted caramel sauce.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed (for caramel): Adds luscious creaminess and smooth texture.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel): Makes the caramel silky and rich.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Provides that beloved contrast to the sweet caramel.
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For creating the shiny, smooth chocolate ganache on top.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for ganache): Essential for that perfect glossy finish and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Sea salt, for sprinkling: A final touch to balance flavors and add a bit of crunch.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom to make sure your tart can be easily unmolded after baking. This preparation step sets the stage for that perfectly shaped dessert you’ll be proud to serve.
Step 2: Make the Crust
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture ensures your crust has the right structure and seasoning. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy—this is key to a tender bite with just enough sweetness. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract and blend well. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then fold in the mini chocolate chips. Press this dough evenly into the prepared tart pan, creating a uniform layer.
Step 3: Bake the Crust
Bake the crust for 15 to 20 minutes until it’s beautifully golden brown. You’ll notice the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen as the crust bakes to perfection. Set it aside on a wire rack to cool completely before moving on, ensuring a crisp base that won’t get soggy under the luscious fillings.
Step 4: Create the Salted Caramel Filling
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar while stirring constantly. Watch closely as it transforms into a deep amber color—that’s when the magic happens. Carefully add the cubed butter and stir until melted, then slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. The mixture will bubble, so take your time to make it smooth and velvety. Remove it from heat and stir in the sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty punch. Let this heavenly caramel cool slightly before pouring it over your cooled tart crust.
Step 5: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
To finish, gently heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it just starts to simmer. Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then pour the hot cream over them. Let the mixture sit for a minute to soften the chocolate before stirring until smooth and glossy. This indulgent ganache is the crowning glory of the tart.
Step 6: Assemble the Tart
Pour the smooth ganache over the set caramel layer, spreading it evenly for a flawless finish. Sprinkle the top with sea salt to tie all flavors together and add that extra hint of crunch. Allow the tart to set at room temperature or refrigerate until the ganache firms up. Once it’s ready, carefully remove the tart from the pan and slice to serve.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a garnish to your Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe can elevate it from delicious to extraordinary. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top adds texture and that delightful contrast to the sweetness. You can also add fresh raspberries or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance visual appeal and add a fresh, light note to balance the richness.
Side Dishes
This tart is a dessert star all by itself, but if you want to complement it, consider serving with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a lightly sweetened mascarpone cream. The cool creaminess pairs wonderfully with the warm caramel and chocolate flavors, making every forkful even more luxurious.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can make the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe feel extra special. Serve individual slices on pretty dessert plates, drizzling a little extra caramel sauce on the side. For gatherings, you could even create mini tart versions in smaller pans for personalized servings that impress your guests with a bite-sized delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust crisp and the caramel and ganache layers intact. Before serving again, you might want to let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to soften up just a bit.
Freezing
If you want to make the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe ahead for a special occasion, you can freeze it. Wrap the tart tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve all the amazing textures and flavors.
Reheating
The tart is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, so reheating is generally not necessary. However, if you prefer a softer texture, gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but do so sparingly to avoid melting the ganache completely.
FAQs
Can I use regular chocolate chips instead of mini ones?
Absolutely! Regular chocolate chips will work just fine in this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe. The mini chips just distribute more evenly throughout the crust for little pockets of chocolate, but either option will taste wonderful.
Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?
You can adapt this recipe by swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. This substitution will slightly change the texture but keep the delicious flavors intact.
Can I make the caramel layer ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salted caramel filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container and gently warm it before pouring over the crust to make it pourable again.
What type of sea salt is best for this recipe?
Flaky sea salt like Maldon or fleur de sel is ideal for sprinkling on top because it has a light crunch and dissolves beautifully. It enhances the contrast without overpowering the tart’s sweetness.
How long does it take for the ganache to set?
The chocolate ganache typically takes about 1-2 hours at room temperature to set fully. Refrigerating it can speed up the process to about 30-45 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe is one of those desserts that feels fancy but is surprisingly approachable to make at home. The way the buttery crust, salted caramel, and rich ganache interact is pure dessert heaven. If you’re looking to impress friends or simply treat yourself, this tart is your go-to. I promise you’ll want to make it again and again!
Print
Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart is a delightful dessert combining a buttery chocolate chip crust with a luscious homemade salted caramel filling, topped with a smooth semi-sweet chocolate ganache and a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Perfect for sharing, this tart offers a rich, indulgent experience that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate lover’s cravings.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
Salted Caramel Filling
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Chocolate Ganache
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of the tart after baking.
- Make the Crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and salt throughout the flour. In a larger bowl, cream the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, which creates a tender texture. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients and stir in the mini chocolate chips to incorporate them throughout the dough.
- Bake the Crust: Press the prepared dough evenly into the greased tart pan. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the crust turns golden brown, ensuring a crisp base that holds the fillings well. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Salted Caramel Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly to prevent burning until it reaches a deep amber color indicating caramelization. Carefully add the cubed butter and stir until melted and combined. Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously to create a smooth caramel sauce. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt to enhance the flavor. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it over the cooled crust. Let the caramel set completely to firm up for the next layer.
- Make the Chocolate Ganache: Heat the heavy cream in a small saucepan over medium heat just until it begins to simmer. Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl, then pour the hot cream over the chips and let it sit for one minute to soften the chocolate. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and glossy, forming a silky ganache.
- Assemble the Tart: Pour the prepared ganache over the set caramel layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle sea salt over the top to balance the sweetness and add a finishing touch. Let the tart set at room temperature or refrigerate until the ganache firms up.
- Serve: Remove the tart from the pan carefully, slice into 12 servings, and enjoy this rich, indulgent dessert that combines every delicious element of chocolate and salted caramel.
Notes
- Use a tart pan with a removable bottom for easy tart removal.
- Keep an eye on the caramel while cooking to prevent burning.
- The tart can be refrigerated to set the ganache faster, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For mini chocolate chips in the crust, you can substitute regular sized chips chopped smaller if needed.
