Sweet, Salty, and Irresistibly Decadent
Imagine a dessert that’s equal parts salty, sweet, and downright decadent—this Salted Caramel Chocolate Tart is a showstopper that’s easier to make than it looks! With a buttery pretzel crust, silky dark chocolate ganache, and a gooey salted caramel layer, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for dinner parties, holidays, or any excuse to treat yourself.
Prep Time: 25 mins | Cook Time: 15 mins (plus chilling) | Serves: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Pretzel Crust:
- 2 cups (150g) finely crushed pretzels (gluten-free if needed)
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp brown sugar
For the Salted Caramel Layer:
- 1 cup (200g) store-bought or homemade caramel sauce
- 1 tsp flaky sea salt
For the Chocolate Ganache:
- 1½ cups (255g) dark chocolate chips (70% cacao)
- ¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Toppings:
- Extra flaky sea salt
- Whipped cream
- Crushed pretzels for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Crust:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix crushed pretzels, melted butter, and brown sugar in a bowl until combined.
- Press firmly into a 9-inch tart pan (with removable bottom). Bake 10-12 minutes until golden. Let cool completely.
- Add the Caramel Layer:
- Warm caramel sauce slightly (if thick) and stir in flaky salt. Pour over cooled crust, spreading evenly. Chill 15 minutes.
- Make the Ganache:
- Heat heavy cream in a saucepan until simmering (do not boil). Pour over chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit 2 minutes, then stir until smooth. Mix in vanilla.
- Assemble:
- Pour ganache over the caramel layer. Tap the pan gently to remove air bubbles.
- Chill at least 2 hours (or overnight) until set.
- Serve:
- Sprinkle with flaky salt, crushed pretzels, and dollops of whipped cream. Slice with a warm knife for clean cuts.
Pro Tips
- Save Time: Use store-bought caramel sauce (we won’t judge!).
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular pretzels for gluten-free ones.
- Vegan Option: Use dairy-free butter, coconut cream (instead of heavy cream), and vegan chocolate.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the tart 2 days in advance and keep chilled.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with: Strong coffee, a drizzle of bourbon, or a glass of dessert wine.
- For Parties: Cut into mini tartlets and garnish with gold leaf for a luxe touch.
- Summer Twist: Top with fresh raspberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Why This Recipe Works
- Texture Heaven: Crunchy pretzel crust + creamy caramel + velvety chocolate = perfection.
- Balance: The saltiness cuts through the richness, making it craveably addictive.
- Versatile: Easily adapts to dietary needs (gluten-free, vegan) without sacrificing flavor.
Tag @grubtogether if you make this tart—we’d love to see your masterpiece! 🍫✨