Chocolate Caramel Tartlets are indulgent mini desserts featuring a rich chocolate tart shell filled with creamy caramel and topped with luscious chocolate ganache. These delightful treats are perfect for any special occasion or as a sweet indulgence!

Ingredients

For the Tart Shells:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)
• 1 large egg yolk
• 1-2 tablespoons cold water

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (cubed)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Timing

Making Chocolate Caramel Tartlets takes about 30 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking, plus additional time for cooling and setting.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tart Shells

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar.
3. Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add Egg Yolk: Stir in the egg yolk and add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
5. Form the Shells: Press the dough into the wells of a tartlet pan, evenly covering the bottom and sides. Prick the bottoms with a fork to prevent bubbling.
6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until set. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling

1. Melt Sugar: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the granulated sugar, stirring constantly until it turns a deep amber color.
2. Add Butter: Once the sugar is melted, carefully add the cubed butter and stir until melted and combined.
3. Add Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring (the mixture will bubble). Continue to stir until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt to taste.
4. Fill Tartlets: Pour the caramel filling into the cooled tartlet shells, filling them about three-quarters full.

Step 3: Make the Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat Cream: In a small saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer.
2. Add Chocolate: Remove from heat and add the chocolate chips, stirring until melted and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Assemble the Tartlets

1. Top with Ganache: Spoon the chocolate ganache over the caramel-filled tartlets, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Chill: Refrigerate the tartlets for at least 1 hour to allow the ganache to set.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle with sea salt or top with chocolate shavings before serving.
2. Enjoy: Serve your Chocolate Caramel Tartlets chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy this decadent dessert!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Chocolate Caramel Tartlets (per tartlet, based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Tartlet
Calories	250
Protein	3g
Fat	16g
Carbohydrates	27g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	15g

Tips for Customization

• Flavor Variations: Add a splash of coffee or espresso to the caramel for a mocha flavor.
• Nut Crust: Substitute some of the flour with ground nuts for a gluten-free option.
• Decorative Toppings: Top with fresh berries or whipped cream for added flavor and presentation.

Conclusion

Chocolate Caramel Tartlets are a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the flavors of chocolate and caramel in a delightful mini tart. Perfect for any occasion, these tartlets are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy this delightful recipe!