Name: Caramel Crunch Tart
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; ¼ cup granulated sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 large egg yolk; 1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel); ⅓ cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for caramel); ½ cup chopped pecans; ½ cup crushed toffee bits

Hey y'all! If you love desserts with a heavenly mix of gooey caramel, buttery pastry, and a delightful crunch, this Caramel Crunch Tart will be your new go-to treat. It's perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, holiday celebrations, or just because you deserve something sweet. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Caramel Crunch Tart

Rich, buttery crust pairs perfectly with the luscious caramel center.
Each bite features a satisfying crunch from toasted nuts and crispy rice cereal.
Easy-to-follow steps make this tart totally doable, even for beginner bakers.
Perfect for make-ahead desserts and impressive enough for guests.
Customizable with your favorite crunchy toppings or chocolate drizzle!

Caramel Crunch Tart Ingredients

1 ¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
1 large egg yolk
2-3 tablespoon cold water
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar (for caramel)
¼ cup (60ml) water (for caramel)
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter (for caramel)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup (75g) crispy rice cereal
½ cup (60g) chopped toasted pecans or almonds
¼ cup (45g) mini chocolate chips (optional)

How to Make Caramel Crunch Tart: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Buttery Tart Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine flour and sugar. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add the egg yolk and 2 tablespoons cold water. Mix until the dough just comes together (add another tablespoon of water if needed).
Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch (23cm) tart pan.
Prick the bottom with a fork. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes, then bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden. Cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Gooey Caramel Filling

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar and ¼ cup water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves.
Increase heat to medium-high and cook (without stirring) until the mixture turns a deep amber color—about 5–7 minutes. Watch closely!
Carefully whisk in the heavy cream (it will bubble vigorously), then add ¼ cup butter and salt.
Remove from heat and allow to cool for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Caramel Crunch Tart

Pour the caramel filling into the cooled tart shell.
Sprinkle crispy rice cereal, toasted nuts, and mini chocolate chips (if using) evenly over the caramel.
Lightly press the toppings into the caramel, then chill the tart in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.

Step 4: Serve

Slice the tart with a sharp knife. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature for ultimate gooeyness and crunch!

Caramel Crunch Tart Notes & Tips

Chill your tart shell before baking to prevent shrinking.
Watch your caramel carefully as it cooks — it can burn quickly. For more on caramel-making, check out King Arthur Baking's caramel guide.
If your caramel hardens, warm it gently and stir until smooth before assembling the tart.

Caramel Crunch Tart Variations

Chocolate Caramel Crunch Tart: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled tart or swirl into the caramel before chilling.
Salted Caramel Crunch Tart: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the tart for a sweet-salty kick.
Peanut Butter Caramel Crunch Tart: Add a thin layer of peanut butter under the caramel layer for an extra nutty dimension.

Required Equipment for Caramel Crunch Tart

9-inch tart pan (with removable base)
Mixing bowls
Medium saucepan
Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
Whisk
Sharp knife

Caramel Crunch Tart Storage & Shelf Life

Store your Caramel Crunch Tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, allow slices to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before serving. The tart can also be frozen (whole or in slices) for up to 1 month—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Pairings & Serving Recommendations for Caramel Crunch Tart

Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
A strong cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk makes a perfect pairing.
For special occasions, garnish with fresh berries or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Caramel Crunch Tart

For a flakier crust, use very cold butter and chill the dough before baking.
Let the caramel cool before pouring into the shell to prevent sogginess. Find more crust tips at Sally's Baking Addiction.
Use a serrated knife for cleaner slices—especially if your tart is well chilled.

Caramel Crunch Tart FAQ

Can I make Caramel Crunch Tart ahead of time?: Absolutely! You can make the tart a day in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to serve.
What nuts work best in the crunchy topping?: Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts are all delicious; choose your favorite or mix several for extra flavor.
How do I prevent my caramel from burning?: Keep a close eye on the sugar as it caramelizes and remove it from heat as soon as it turns deep amber. Stir minimally and avoid high heat—learn more at Serious Eats' caramel guide.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling)

Caramel Crunch Tart