Salted Caramel Apple Tarts

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup ice water; 3 cups thinly sliced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your guests this Thanksgiving with these exquisite Salted Caramel Apple Tarts. Featuring a buttery crust filled with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples and drizzled with rich salted caramel, these individual desserts are the perfect combination of sweet and savory. Easy to make and a stunning addition to your holiday table, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite that captivates both young and old alike.

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2025-11-05T15:15:38.163Z

These Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are not only delicious but also a visual treat. The pairing of caramel with the tartness of apples creates an amazing flavor profile that can’t be resisted.

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

These Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are not just a Thanksgiving treat; they are a wonderful dessert for any fall gathering. The beautiful presentation makes them a delightful centerpiece on your dessert table. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, family reunion, or simply craving something sweet, these tarts offer the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The rich salted caramel enhances the sweetness of the apples, making each bite a luxurious experience.

Moreover, these tarts are easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your guests. You can make the crust and filling in advance, saving you precious time on the big day. Just bake and drizzle with the homemade salted caramel before serving for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste that will impress everyone.

A Twist on a Classic Flavor

Incorporating salted caramel into traditional apple tarts adds an exciting and modern twist to this classic dessert. Salted caramel has gained popularity in recent years, and for good reason—it perfectly balances sweetness with a hint of savory flavor. This innovative touch not only elevates the dish but also appeals to a wider audience, making these tarts a guaranteed hit for guests of all ages.

If you're looking to impress, these tarts are a fantastic choice. The combination of tender, spiced apples nestled in a flaky crust and topped with silky salted caramel creates an unforgettable dessert experience. It's a treat that's both nostalgic and contemporary, ensuring everyone will enjoy the flavors and presentation.

Customize to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic combination of Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples shines, feel free to experiment with different apple varieties based on your preferences or what's in season. For a more unique flavor profile, consider mixing in some pears or cranberries with the apples for an extra tartness that complements the sweetness of the caramel.

Additionally, you can adjust the level of spice to cater to your taste. If you love a spicier profile, throw in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the apple filling. This recipe allows you to put your personal stamp on it, ensuring that your Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are uniquely your own.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Tarts.

For the crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup ice water

For the filling:

3 cups thinly sliced apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the salted caramel:

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sea salt

Prepare these ingredients before getting started with the recipe.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delightful tarts.

Make the crust

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Use a pastry cutter to cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until the dough comes together.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the apple filling

In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

Roll out the dough

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut into circles to fit your tart pans.

Assemble the tarts

Place the dough circles into the tart pans. Fill each with the apple mixture, pressing slightly to pack the apples down.

Bake the tarts

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. Let cool.

Make the salted caramel

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar until it turns amber. Remove from heat and stir in the butter until melted. Gradually whisk in the cream and return to heat. Stir in the sea salt.

Allow to cool slightly.

Serve the tarts

Drizzle the salted caramel over the cooled tarts before serving. Enjoy!

Once you are done with the steps, indulge in your homemade tarts!

Tips for Perfect Tarts

To achieve the perfect crust, make sure your butter is well-chilled. This will help ensure a flaky texture that adds to the overall richness of the tarts. Additionally, be cautious not to overwork the dough. Once it starts to come together, handle it as little as possible to maintain its flakiness.

When filling the tarts, be careful not to overfill them. The apples will reduce during baking, so packing them tightly is essential. This method ensures that the tarts retain their shape and presents beautifully.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

These Salted Caramel Apple Tarts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store them longer, consider refrigerating them, but be aware that the crust may lose some of its crispness. To restore some crunch, you can briefly reheat them in the oven before serving.

For an added touch, serve the tarts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cold creaminess complements the warm tarts beautifully, making for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures that will leave your guests raving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, using a store-bought crust can save time.

→ How do I store leftover tarts?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.