Salted Caramel Apple Tarts

Name: Salted Caramel Apple Tarts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8.0
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup ice water; 3 large apples, peeled and sliced; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight your guests this Thanksgiving with these irresistible Salted Caramel Apple Tarts. Featuring a buttery crust filled with spiced apples and topped with a luscious salted caramel drizzle, these tarts are the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert that will elevate your holiday feast.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-11-05T15:47:54.522Z

Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are the quintessential fall dessert. Perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, these tarts offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will excite your palate.

Perfect for Thanksgiving Gatherings

Salted Caramel Apple Tarts are an ideal dessert to grace your Thanksgiving table. Their inviting aroma and delectable flavors make them a standout choice amidst the array of holiday desserts. Guests will be drawn to the golden-brown crust and the enticing scent of spiced apples, evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. These tarts not only taste amazing but also add a touch of elegance to your dessert spread.

Each tart is designed to serve as an individual delight, making them easy to share and enjoy. The buttery crust provides a satisfying crunch, while the sweet and spicy apple filling bursts with flavor in every bite. Whether served at a festive gathering or enjoyed at home with family, these tarts are sure to create lasting memories.

A Balanced Flavor Profile

What sets these Salted Caramel Apple Tarts apart is their harmonious blend of sweet and savory flavors. The interplay between the sweetness of the caramel and the subtle tartness of the apples creates a taste sensation that is both rich and refreshing. The hint of cinnamon and nutmeg adds warmth and complexity, complementing the natural sweetness of the apples beautifully.

Salted caramel elevates this classic dessert, providing a modern twist that pleases the palate. This luscious drizzle adds a savory element that balances the sweetness, making each bite an exquisite experience. It’s a delightful contrast that your guests will love, ensuring their taste buds remain tantalized throughout the meal.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly indulgent experience, serve these tarts warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly counteracts the warmth of the tarts, creating a delightful textural contrast. This classic combination not only enhances the flavors but also provides a visually appealing presentation.

Consider garnishing your tarts with a sprinkle of sea salt or chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor. A drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce on top can also enhance their appeal, inviting guests to dive in. These simple yet thoughtful touches elevate the dessert experience, making your Thanksgiving feast unforgettable.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smoother cooking experience.

For the Tarts

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
2 tablespoons sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup ice water
3 large apples, peeled and sliced
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup salted caramel sauce

Make sure to have everything ready to go before beginning to assemble.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for the best results.

Prepare the Crust

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water until dough forms.

Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, toss sliced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Let them sit to release some juices.

Assemble the Tarts

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough and cut into circles. Place into tart pans. Fill each with the spiced apple mixture and drizzle with salted caramel.

Bake

Bake the tarts for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden and apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

Once baked, allow the tarts to cool before drizzling with extra salted caramel.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing these Salted Caramel Apple Tarts is easy. Allow them to cool completely after baking, then place them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, they can last for up to three days. When it's time to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at a low temperature to regain their original warmth and texture.

If you prefer, you can also freeze the unbaked tarts before filling them. When you're ready to enjoy, just bake them directly from the freezer, allowing a few extra minutes for cooking time. This makes them a convenient option for preparing ahead of time, easing the workload during the busy holiday season.

Customizing Your Tarts

One of the great things about these tarts is their versatility. Feel free to customize the fruit filling by incorporating different varieties of apples or adding in other fruits like pears or cranberries for a seasonal twist. Experimentation can lead to delightful new flavors that suit your taste preferences.

You can also adjust the spices to make them more or less prominent according to your liking. If you enjoy a stronger cinnamon flavor, add an extra dash. Alternatively, for a milder taste, consider reducing the spice quantities. The recipe's flexibility allows you to personalize it to fit your family's unique flavor profiles.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, store-bought pie crust can be a time-saver for this recipe.

→ What type of apples are best for tarts?

Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or a mix of sweet and tart apples work well.