Salted Caramel Apple Tarts

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Tarts
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 tarts
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup cold water; 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup sugar; 6 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon sea salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the delightful combination of sweet and savory with these Salted Caramel Apple Tarts. Featuring a buttery crust filled with tender apples and drizzled with rich salted caramel, these tarts are a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving dessert spread. Impress your guests with this easy-to-make treat that balances warmth and indulgence in every bite.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-11-05T14:43:35.437Z

Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Each tart is crafted with care, making them not only a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation.
Perfect balance of sweet and salty.
Great for gatherings and holidays.

      

The Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves begin to change color and the air becomes crisp, nothing quite embodies the essence of fall like Salted Caramel Apple Tarts. The fragrant aroma of baked apples combined with warm spices fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for family gatherings. These tarts make an excellent dessert choice for any autumn celebration, from cozy dinners to Thanksgiving feasts.

The subtle sweetness of the apples paired with the rich salted caramel elevates these tarts from mere desserts to gourmet treats. Each bite offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, ensuring that your guests will be talking about this dish long after the last slice is served.

Easy Steps to Impress

Don't worry if you're not a seasoned baker; these Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are surprisingly simple to make! With just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up a stunning dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy bakery. The crust is buttery and flaky, while the filling is perfectly spiced and sweet, making it a hit among all ages.

What sets this recipe apart is not just the combination of flavors, but also the effortless presentation. The salted caramel drizzle adds an artistic touch that elevates the tarts visually. Whether you're new to baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe guarantees delicious results that will impress your family and friends.

Serving Suggestions

These tarts are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways. For a simple yet elegant touch, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or pour over some freshly whipped cream. This combination adds creaminess that beautifully complements the tangy apples and rich caramel.

Alternatively, consider pairing your Salted Caramel Apple Tarts with a warm cup of spiced cider or a robust cup of coffee. The warmth of the beverages combined with the comforting flavors of the tarts creates a cozy experience that is perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup cold water

For the Filling

3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Salted Caramel

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

Make sure to preheat your oven while preparing the ingredients.

Instructions

Make the Tart Shells

In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball.

Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Apples

In another bowl, mix sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Set aside.

Roll Out the Dough

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut into circles and fit them into tart pans.

Fill and Bake

Place the apple mixture into each tart shell. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes or until the apples are tender.

Make the Caramel

While baking, prepare the salted caramel by melting sugar over medium heat until golden brown. Remove from heat and stir in butter, followed by heavy cream and sea salt. Allow to cool slightly.

Assemble Tarts

Once the tarts are baked, drizzle with salted caramel. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Apple Tarts!

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover Salted Caramel Apple Tarts, storing them is simple. Allow the tarts to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to a week. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven for a few minutes until warmed through, ensuring the crust remains crispy.

Keep in mind that the salted caramel may lose some of its texture when stored. To refresh the tarts, you could drizzle a little extra caramel sauce on top before serving to bring back that delightful gooeyness!

Customization Ideas

Make these tarts your own by customizing the filling! While classic apples are a favorite, feel free to mix in other fruits like pears or berries for extra flavor. You could also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to reflect your personal taste or the season's changes.

For those who love a nutty crunch, consider adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling. This not only enhances texture but also adds a new layer of flavor, ensuring that each bite isn’t just satisfying, but also unique.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these tarts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the shells and filling ahead of time, then bake them just before serving.

→ What type of apples are best for this recipe?

A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples works well for flavor and texture.