Salted caramel has become a classic dessert flavor that continues to captivate both home cooks and pastry chefs alike. The combination of sweet caramel with a touch of salt creates a perfect balance that enhances a wide range of desserts, from brownies to pies to tarts. One dessert that truly showcases the appeal of salted caramel is the Salted Caramel Tart, a decadent treat that remains as popular today as it was when the trend first took off in the early 2000s.
What sets this Salted Caramel Tart apart is the rich, buttery caramel filling that gains added complexity from the simple addition of salt. The caramel is poured into a crisp, flaky tart shell and topped with a layer of dark chocolate ganache, creating a dessert that is both luxurious and irresistible. The salt in the caramel not only enhances the flavor but also adds a subtle crunch that contrasts beautifully with the silky ganache.
One of the key elements of this Salted Caramel Tart is the type of salt used. Fine kosher salt is ideal for the caramel as it dissolves evenly and seasons without overpowering the sweetness. For finishing, flaky sea salt is the perfect choice, adding a delicate crunch and a burst of salinity that complements the other flavors in the tart. Different types of salt, such as fleur de sel, smoked sea salt, or vanilla-infused salt, can also be used to add unique flavor profiles to the dessert.
To create a gorgeous crust for the tart, a few key steps are essential. Starting with cold butter and chilling the dough allows the flour to hydrate and the gluten to relax, preventing the crust from shrinking during baking. Blind baking the crust before filling ensures that it holds up to the rich caramel filling without becoming soggy. The tart shell can be prepared ahead of time and frozen, making it a convenient option for entertaining.
In the Food & Wine Test Kitchen, a few tips were discovered to ensure the success of this Salted Caramel Tart. Using the right type of saucepan for the caramel is crucial to prevent scorching, while gently stirring the ganache creates a smooth texture. Allowing the tart to come to room temperature before serving ensures the perfect consistency for slicing and garnishing.
Overall, the Salted Caramel Tart is a timeless dessert that continues to delight with its perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this tart is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves the indulgent combination of caramel, chocolate, and salt.
