A show-stopping dessert that layers crisp chocolate crust, silky salted caramel, rich dark chocolate ganache, and light-as-air chocolate mousse. This Salted Caramel Chocolate Mousse Tart is a luxurious treat, perfect for celebrations, special dinners, or whenever you crave a decadent chocolate indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tart offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The salty-sweet caramel complements the deep richness of dark chocolate, while the creamy mousse adds a light, elegant finish. Each layer stands out yet harmonizes beautifully with the others. Visually stunning and intensely satisfying, this dessert is perfect for entertaining or treating yourself to a patisserie-worthy creation at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the crust:

• 1 1/4 cups chocolate cookie crumbs
• 1/4 cup melted butter

For the salted caramel layer:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons water
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (optional)

For the chocolate ganache layer:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 100g dark chocolate, chopped

For the chocolate mousse topping:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder

Optional garnish:

• Chocolate shavings or curls
• Caramelized peanuts or toffee pieces

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, combine chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter. Press the mixture firmly into the base and sides of a tart pan.
3. Bake the crust for 8 minutes. Remove and let cool completely.

To make the salted caramel layer:
4. In a saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat without stirring. Let it cook until it turns a deep amber color.
5. Remove from heat and carefully stir in butter and heavy cream (mixture will bubble).
6. Stir in sea salt and roasted peanuts if using.
7. Pour the caramel over the cooled crust and refrigerate until firm, about 30–45 minutes.

To make the ganache layer:
8. Heat the cream in a small saucepan until just beginning to simmer.
9. Pour over chopped dark chocolate and let sit for 1 minute, then stir until smooth.
10. Pour the ganache over the caramel layer and refrigerate until set, about 30 minutes.

To make the chocolate mousse topping:
11. Whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and cocoa powder until soft peaks form.
12. Spread or pipe the mousse over the chilled ganache layer.

13. Garnish with chocolate shavings and caramelized peanuts if desired.
14. Chill the tart until ready to serve. Slice with a sharp knife for clean layers.

Servings and timing

This tart yields 8–10 servings.
Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Chill time: 1.5–2 hours
Total time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes

Variations

• Nut-free version: Omit peanuts and garnish with toffee bits or sea salt flakes.
• Milk chocolate ganache: Use milk chocolate instead of dark for a milder flavor.
• Spiced caramel: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne to the caramel for warmth or heat.
• Coffee mousse: Replace cocoa with instant espresso powder for a mocha mousse topping.
• Mini tartlets: Use mini tart pans for individual servings—great for parties or gifting.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the entire tart or slices tightly wrapped for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Not necessary. This tart is best served chilled or at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, it’s an ideal make-ahead dessert. Prepare the day before and chill until ready to serve.

What type of chocolate works best for ganache?

High-quality dark chocolate (around 60–70% cocoa) melts smoothly and provides rich flavor.

How do I prevent the caramel from crystallizing?

Avoid stirring while the sugar and water cook. Clean down the sides of the pan with a wet pastry brush if needed.

Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, store-bought caramel can be used for convenience, though homemade yields better depth of flavor.

What size tart pan should I use?

A standard 9-inch tart pan works well for this recipe.

Can I use whipped topping instead of mousse?

You can, but the homemade mousse provides better flavor and stability for layering.

Is this dessert overly sweet?

The sea salt and dark chocolate balance the sweetness of the caramel, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.

How do I cut clean slices?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between each cut for neat layers.

Can I use gluten-free cookies for the crust?

Yes, use gluten-free chocolate cookies to make this tart gluten-free.

Will the mousse hold its shape overnight?

Yes, the stabilized mousse holds well when refrigerated and maintains its texture for a few days.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Mousse Tart is a multi-layered dessert that combines rich flavors and contrasting textures into a stunning centerpiece. With its crisp crust, buttery caramel, smooth ganache, and airy mousse, it delivers indulgence in every slice. Perfect for any occasion where only the most luxurious dessert will do, this tart is guaranteed to impress.

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