Introduction

Indulging in a decadent dessert is a delight for any sweet tooth, and a Salted Caramel Tart stands out as an exceptionally gratifying choice. This luscious tart combines a buttery, crumbly crust with a rich and silky caramel filling, perfectly balanced by a touch of salt. Ideal for special occasions or simply to treat yourself, this recipe guarantees a dessert that impresses and satisfies.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

For the tart crust:
– 1 ½ cups of digestive biscuits, crushed
– ½ cup of unsalted butter, melted
– ¼ cup of granulated sugar

For the salted caramel filling:
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cubed
– ½ cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of sea salt

For garnishing:
– Flaky sea salt
– Dark chocolate shavings (optional)

Prep Time

The prep time for the Salted Caramel Tart is approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time it takes to prepare the crust and the filling, setting the stage for the delicious outcome.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 15 to 20 minutes, allowing the caramel to achieve the perfect consistency while the crust develops a golden color in the oven. The total time, including preparation and cooling, is roughly 2 hours. This recipe yields one tart, typically serving 8 to 10 people, making it a perfect dessert for gatherings or celebrations.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Make the Tart Crust

Combine flour, icing sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Gradually add the cold, cubed butter and rub together until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the egg yolk and mix until combined. Form the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Roll and Blind Bake the Crust

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a tart pan. Press it into the pan, trimming the edges. Line the crust with baking paper and fill it with pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and paper, and continue baking for another 10 minutes until golden. Let cool.

Prepare the Salted Caramel

In a saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once it starts to boil, stop stirring and let it cook until it turns a deep amber color. Remove from heat and carefully add cream and butter, whisking until smooth. Stir in sea salt to taste. Allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring it into the cooled tart shell.

Chill the Tart

Refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours, or until set. This allows the caramel to firm up, creating a smooth texture.

Prepare the Chocolate Ganache

Heat cream in a saucepan until just boiling, then pour it over chopped chocolate in a bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes, then stir until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. Allow the ganache to cool slightly before pouring it over the set salted caramel.

Chill Again

Return the tart to the refrigerator and let it chill until the ganache is firm, for about 2 hours.

Serve the Tart

Once everything is set, carefully remove the tart from the pan. Cut into slices and serve, optionally garnished with sea salt flakes.

Notes

Storage

The salted caramel tart can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestion

This tart pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness.

Adjusting Salt

Feel free to adjust the salt in the caramel to suit your taste preference. Start with a small amount and add more if desired.

Using Quality Chocolate

For the ganache, use high-quality dark chocolate to ensure a rich flavor and smooth texture.

Cook techniques

Making the crust

To achieve a buttery and crumbly texture in your tart crust, be sure to use cold butter and gently combine it with the flour. This avoids overworking the dough, which can lead to a tough crust.

Baking the crust

Blind baking is essential for preventing a soggy bottom. Use parchment paper and pie weights to ensure the crust holds its shape while baking. Bake until it is lightly golden for the best results.

Preparing salted caramel

When making salted caramel, melt the sugar slowly over medium heat to achieve a rich flavor without burning. Stir only occasionally until the sugar is fully melted and then continue cooking until it reaches a deep amber color.

Adding cream to caramel

Allow the caramel to cool slightly before slowly pouring in the cream. This prevents splattering and helps maintain the smooth texture of the caramel sauce.

Incorporating salt

Selecting the right salt is key; flaky sea salt works beautifully. Add it at the end of the caramel-making process to control the flavor and enhance the sweetness.

Assembling the tart

Once the caramel has cooled, pour it into the pre-baked crust evenly. Ensure it spreads out uniformly for a smooth finish.

FAQ

Can I substitute the crust with a different type?

Yes, you can use a pre-made pastry or even a cookie crust if you prefer a different flavor or texture.

How can I store the salted caramel tart?

The tart can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a week. For best texture, let it rest at room temperature for a short time before serving.

Can I use a different type of salt?

Yes, while flaky sea salt is recommended, you can use kosher salt or even fleur de sel, depending on your preference for flavor intensity.

What can I use instead of cream in the caramel?

You can substitute with a non-dairy cream alternative, though be mindful that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.

Is it necessary to chill the tart before serving?

Yes, chilling the tart allows the caramel to set properly and makes slicing easier, resulting in cleaner edges.

Conclusion

Indulging in a homemade salted caramel tart is a delightful experience that combines rich, buttery pastry with luxurious caramel and a touch of sea salt. This dessert is perfect for special occasions or simply as a treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. The balance of flavors and textures makes it a hit among chocolate and caramel lovers alike.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Chocolate Ganache Tart

Pair the salted caramel with a rich chocolate ganache tart for a decadent dessert that layers flavors beautifully.

Pecan Pie Tart

A pecan pie tart complements the salted caramel nicely, adding a nutty crunch and sweetness that works perfectly together.

Fruit Tart with Cream Cheese Filling

Consider a fresh fruit tart with a cream cheese filling to offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of salted caramel.

Coconut Cream Tart

Combine the salted caramel tart with a coconut cream tart for a tropical twist, balancing flavors with the sweetness of coconut.

Lemon Tart

A lemon tart offers a zesty and tart flavor profile that can brighten up the dessert table alongside salted caramel tarts.