Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts Recipe: A Sweet and Salty Delight

Are you a fan of desserts that balance sweet and salty flavors? If so, you are in for a treat with this Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts recipe. These tarts combine the richness of buttery caramel with the crunchiness of pecans, all sitting in a perfectly flaky tart shell. The finishing touch of sea salt on top takes this dessert to the next level, creating a delightful harmony of flavors that will have everyone coming back for more.

This indulgent dessert is perfect for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or any time you’re craving something sweet with a touch of sophistication. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just getting started, this recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring that your tarts turn out perfectly every time.

What Are Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts?

Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts are bite-sized desserts featuring a buttery tart crust filled with rich homemade caramel sauce and topped with toasted pecans. The caramel’s sweetness is enhanced by the addition of a pinch of sea salt, creating a balance of flavors that are both savory and sweet. The pecans provide a crunchy texture that contrasts with the smoothness of the caramel, making each bite a delightful experience.

These tarts are incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them at a holiday dinner, serve them at a party, or treat yourself to a decadent snack after a long day. The combination of the nutty pecans, smooth caramel, and the hint of sea salt is simply irresistible!

Origin of Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts

The creation of Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts is a relatively modern twist on classic French desserts. Caramel, which originates from the Latin word cannabis, meaning “sugar,” has been used in various cultures for centuries. The concept of salted caramel, however, is a more recent trend that has gained massive popularity. This variation first emerged in France in the early 1980s when renowned chef Henri Le Roux introduced salted caramel as a flavor pairing for his chocolates. The balance of sweet and salty became a hit, and salted caramel quickly spread across the globe.

Pecans, native to North America, have long been a staple in many dessert recipes. Pairing these two ingredients—pecans and salted caramel—was only a matter of time. Now, this combination is found in everything from cakes and cookies to tarts and pies. The Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts have become a beloved treat that showcases the best of both worlds.

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts

This recipe includes three main components: the tart crust, the caramel filling, and the pecan topping. Here’s what you will need:

For the Tart Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2-3 tablespoons ice water

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for sprinkling)

And lastly for the Pecan Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups pecans, chopped or whole (your preference)
• 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting the pecans)
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method For Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts

1. Making the Tart Crust

The first step in creating these Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts is preparing the tart crust. This buttery, flaky crust will hold the luscious caramel filling and the crunchy pecans.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a food processor, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Pulse until the dry ingredients are mixed. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse again until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg yolk and pulse until combined. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to form.

Step 3: Chill the Dough

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it a few times until it’s smooth. Shape it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps to prevent shrinkage during baking.

Step 4: Roll Out and Line Tart Pans

Once chilled, roll the dough out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles, or simply trim the dough to fit tart pans. Gently press the dough into each tart pan and trim the edges. Prick the bottoms of the crusts with a fork to prevent bubbling during baking.

Step 5: Blind Bake the Crusts

Place parchment paper over the dough and fill with pie weights or dried beans. Bake the crusts for 10-12 minutes, until lightly golden. Remove the parchment and weights, and bake for another 5 minutes. Let the crusts cool completely before filling.

2. Preparing the Caramel Filling

Step 1: Make the Caramel

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it bubble gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add Cream and Vanilla

Reduce the heat and carefully pour in the heavy cream. Stir the caramel until it’s smooth and well combined. Add the vanilla extract and sea salt, stirring for another minute. Remove from heat and allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring into the tart shells.

Step 3: Assemble the Tarts

Pour the caramel filling into each tart shell, filling them almost to the top. Let the caramel set at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

3. Toasting the Pecans

Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, so don’t skip this step!

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the pecans. Stir the nuts for 4-5 minutes, until they are lightly toasted and fragrant. (Optional: Add cinnamon to the pecans while toasting for an extra burst of flavor.)

Step 2: Top the Tarts

Once the caramel has set, arrange the toasted pecans on top of each tart. Press them gently into the caramel to ensure they stay in place.

Step 3: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the tarts for at least an hour to allow the caramel to firm up. Before serving, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for that perfect salty-sweet balance.

Variations of Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts

The beauty of these Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts lies in their versatility. Here are a few ways you can customize the recipe:

1. Chocolate Drizzle:

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some melted dark or milk chocolate over the top of the tarts before serving. The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the salted caramel and pecans.

2. Nut Variations:

If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can easily substitute them with other nuts like walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts. Each nut will bring a unique flavor and texture to the tarts.

3. Vegan Version:

To make these tarts vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of heavy cream. Make sure to use a dairy-free crust as well.

4. Spiced Caramel:

Add a dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the caramel for a warm, spiced twist on the classic recipe. This is especially great for the fall and winter seasons.

FAQs About Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts

1. Can I Make These Tarts Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make the tarts a day ahead. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.

2. Can I Use Pre-made Tart Shells?

While homemade tart shells add a special touch, you can use pre-made shells if you’re short on time. Just make sure they are of good quality and bake them as directed.

3. Can I Freeze Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts?

Yes, you can freeze the tarts before adding the toasted pecans. Simply wrap the tarts tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving, then add the pecans.

4. What Can I Use Instead of Sea Salt?

If you don’t have sea salt, you can use kosher salt or table salt. However, sea salt tends to have a more delicate flavor, so adjust the amount accordingly.

Conclusion

These Salted Caramel Pecan Tarts are a decadent treat that combines the best of sweet and salty flavors in one perfect bite. The buttery tart crust, rich caramel filling, and toasted pecans create a dessert that’s both elegant and irresistible. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in something delicious, these tarts are sure to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can make this show-stopping dessert in your own kitchen. So why wait? Treat yourself to these delightful tarts and enjoy the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

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