Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart Recipe

If you’re searching for a dessert that’s indulgent, impressive, and genuinely unforgettable, look no further than this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart. A buttery tart crust cradles a luscious homemade salted caramel layer, all topped with a silky chocolate ganache studded with chocolate chips and crowned with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Every slice delivers an incredible symphony of flavors and textures: crisp, creamy, rich, and just a little bit salty. It’s an absolute showstopper, perfect for dinner parties, special celebrations, or just treating yourself to something extraordinary.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart shine is how simple but carefully chosen each ingredient is. Every element plays a role, from the crisp tart base to the luxurious caramel and glossy chocolate topping—each bite comes together because of these reliable pantry staples.

• All-purpose flour: Gives structure to the crust, creating that perfect tender bite without being too crumbly.
• Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily into the dough, bringing a smooth sweetness to the tart base.
• Unsalted butter (cold for crust, room temp for caramel and ganache): The secret to richness and that melt-in-your-mouth texture in each layer.
• Egg yolk: Adds a bit of richness and helps bind the crust together for easier slicing.
• Ice water: Keeps the dough tender and helps everything come together without overworking the gluten.
• Granulated sugar: Essential for the caramel—its transformation creates that deep golden color and complex flavor.
• Heavy cream: Makes both the caramel and ganache ultra creamy and decadent.
• Sea salt: Not just for sprinkling—mixed into the caramel, it transforms sweetness into salted caramel magic.
• Semisweet chocolate chips: These melt beautifully for a ganache that’s perfectly smooth and rich, and add a little bite.
• Flaky sea salt: A finishing touch that wakes up every flavor, giving contrast and a touch of elegance to each slice.

How to Make Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and powdered sugar, then cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry blender or your fingertips until the mixture looks sandy with pea-sized pieces. Add the egg yolk and just enough ice water (start with one tablespoon, then add more if needed) to bring the dough together. Press the dough evenly into a 9-inch tart pan, making sure to get into every curve of the sides. Pop it in the fridge for 15 minutes—this helps prevent shrinking and gives the tart that perfectly defined edge. After chilling, bake the crust for about 20 minutes, or until it’s just turning golden around the edges. Let it cool completely before moving on.

Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel Filling

For the highlight of this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart, grab a sturdy saucepan and gently heat the granulated sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the sugar melts down and turns a gorgeous deep amber. As soon as it’s fully melted, whisk in the butter until it’s all silky and combined. Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking the whole time to avoid splatters. Stir in the sea salt and remove from the heat. Let your caramel cool for 15 to 20 minutes—it should still be pourable but not scorchingly hot—then pour it over the cooled tart crust. Transfer to the refrigerator and let the caramel set until it’s preserved its glorious gooeyness but holds its shape, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 3: Top with Chocolate Ganache

Heat the remaining heavy cream in a small saucepan just until it’s steaming (don’t let it boil). Pour this hot cream directly over the semisweet chocolate chips in a heat-safe bowl. Wait a couple of minutes, then stir everything together—you’ll see the magic happen as the chips turn into a glossy ganache. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter for an extra-smooth finish, then pour this rich ganache right onto your set caramel layer. Gently spread to the edges for an even finish.

Step 4: Chill and Finish with Sea Salt

Sprinkle the surface generously with flaky sea salt while the chocolate is still silky. It’s magical how just a small sprinkle turns every bite into a sweet-salty perfection. Put the tart back in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling time is essential—it allows all the layers to set, making it sliceable and beautifully layered.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, run a knife briefly under hot water and dry it off for the cleanest slices. Lift every slice carefully to show off those gorgeous layers: crisp crust, wobbly caramel, and luscious chocolate. Serve chilled for the tastiest results—though I guarantee no one will mind stealing a piece at any temperature!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart

Garnishes

The best way to finish off your tart is with a flourish of garnishes. Flaky sea salt is essential for that beautiful sparkle and burst of flavor, but you can also add a few extra chocolate chips or even delicate shavings of dark chocolate on top. If you want to be extra indulgent, a cloud of freshly whipped cream or a dollop of crème fraîche alongside each slice contrasts deliciously with the richness.

Side Dishes

This tart is unapologetically decadent, so fresh, tangy sides pair beautifully. A bowl of mixed berries, lightly sweetened, adds color and brightness to the plate. Vanilla ice cream or even a scoop of tart raspberry sorbet can balance every mouthful and refresh the palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

To really wow your guests, cut the tart into dainty squares or bars for a dessert buffet or elegant afternoon tea. You can also serve each slice on a puddle of raspberry coulis or caramel sauce for an artistic presentation. For a celebration, candles atop the tart or a dusting of edible gold leaf transform it into a star centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart is a happy problem to have! Simply cover the tart with plastic wrap or store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The tart keeps its beautiful texture and flavor for up to 5 days—if you can resist it that long.

Freezing

If you’d like to make the tart ahead or save extra for later, it freezes surprisingly well. Chill the finished tart thoroughly, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.

Reheating

This tart is best served chilled or at room temperature, but if you want just a hint of warmth (and a slightly gooier caramel), pop individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or the caramel may become too runny.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel instead of making my own?

Absolutely! While homemade caramel gives the most luxurious flavor, high-quality store-bought caramel saves time and still tastes fantastic. Just stir in a little extra sea salt to bump up that sweet-salty balance.

Can I use a different crust for this tart?

Definitely. If you’re short on time or want a twist, you can use a chocolate cookie crumb crust—just crush about 30 chocolate wafer cookies, mix with 6 tablespoons melted butter, press into the tart pan, and chill. No baking required!

Is it possible to make the Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure your other ingredients (especially chocolate chips) are labeled gluten-free as well.

How do I prevent my caramel from crystalizing?

Resist the urge to stir the sugar constantly while it melts—gentle swirling works better. Also, make sure your pan is clean and all your utensils are dry to avoid introducing extra moisture.

Can I make the tart in advance for a party?

This Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart is actually perfect for making ahead! You can make it a day or two before your event; it develops even richer flavor as it sits, and the layers stay beautifully distinct and sliceable.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wished for a dessert that’s as stunning as it is delicious, this Chocolate Chip Salted Caramel Tart is it. I hope you’ll give it a try soon—whether you bake it for loved ones or just to spoil yourself, every bite is a little moment of pure joy. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to showstopper!

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