These Salted Caramel Drops with a Chocolate Crust are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence. A rich, buttery caramel center is perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, all nestled in a crisp, chocolatey shell. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion, gifting, or just treating yourself, these decadent treats are guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Sweet & Salty Balance: Rich caramel with a hint of sea salt creates an irresistible flavor.
- Crunchy & Creamy Texture: A crisp chocolate crust contrasts beautifully with the smooth caramel filling.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and no special equipment needed.
- Great for Gifting: These elegant treats make a perfect homemade gift.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 cup crushed chocolate cookies (Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ cup dark or milk chocolate, melted
For the Salted Caramel Filling:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
For Garnish:
- Flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)
- Extra melted chocolate (optional, for drizzling)
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
- In a bowl, mix the crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter until fully combined.
- Press about 1 teaspoon of the mixture into mini silicone molds or mini cupcake liners to form a base.
- Pour melted chocolate over the crust and smooth it out with a spoon.
- Freeze for 10 minutes until firm.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, heat the sugar, stirring constantly until it melts and turns an amber color.
- Add the butter and whisk until fully incorporated.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Stir in the sea salt, then remove from heat and let the caramel cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Drops
- Spoon a small amount of caramel over each chilled chocolate crust.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Freeze for 30 minutes to set.
Step 4: Add a Chocolate Drizzle (Optional)
- Melt additional chocolate and drizzle over the caramel drops for a decorative touch.
- Let set for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Serve & Store
- Enjoy immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, keep in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: 12–14 caramel drops
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Chilling Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped toasted pecans or almonds to the caramel before pouring.
- Extra Chocolatey: Mix cocoa powder into the crust for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
- Espresso Infused: Stir a teaspoon of espresso powder into the caramel for a coffee kick.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Keep frozen for up to 1 month; thaw for a few minutes before serving.
- Reheating: No reheating needed—enjoy them straight from the fridge or freezer!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought caramel?
Yes, but homemade caramel provides a fresher, richer flavor.
2. How do I prevent the caramel from hardening too much?
Let it cool slightly before pouring but avoid overcooking it.
3. What’s the best chocolate to use?
High-quality dark or milk chocolate works best for a smooth and rich taste.
4. Can I make these in a muffin tin?
Yes! Use mini muffin liners to shape the crust.
5. Why is my caramel grainy?
Overheating or not stirring continuously can cause sugar to crystallize. Stir constantly and avoid sudden temperature changes.
6. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These are perfect for make-ahead desserts and can be stored in the freezer.
7. How do I get a perfectly smooth caramel?
Use room-temperature butter and heavy cream, and whisk continuously while adding them.
8. Can I use white chocolate instead?
Yes! White chocolate creates a sweeter version of this treat.
9. What can I serve these with?
Enjoy them as a standalone treat or pair them with vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
10. How can I make the crust firmer?
Add an extra tablespoon of melted butter to help bind the cookie crumbs together.
Conclusion
These Salted Caramel Drops with Chocolate Crust are an irresistible combination of crunchy, creamy, and salty-sweet flavors. Whether you’re making them for a party, a gift, or just to treat yourself, they’re simple to prepare and impossible to resist. Try a batch today and enjoy every decadent bite!
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Salted Caramel Drops with Chocolate Crust
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 drops 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Salted Caramel Drops with a Chocolate Crust are the ultimate bite-sized indulgence! A crisp, chocolatey shell holds a rich, buttery caramel center, finished with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Perfect for gifting or treating yourself to a decadent sweet and salty dessert!
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Crust:
- 1 cup crushed chocolate cookies (Oreos or chocolate graham crackers)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 cup dark or milk chocolate, melted
For the Salted Caramel Filling:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
For Garnish:
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Extra melted chocolate (optional, for drizzling)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Crust
- In a bowl, mix crushed cookies and melted butter until well combined.
- Press about 1 teaspoon of the mixture into mini silicone molds or mini cupcake liners to form a crust.
- Pour melted chocolate over each crust and smooth the surface.
- Freeze for 10 minutes until firm.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt sugar, stirring constantly until it turns into an amber-colored liquid.
- Add butter and whisk until fully combined.
- Slowly pour in heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth.
- Stir in sea salt and let cool slightly.
Step 3: Assemble the Drops
- Spoon a small amount of caramel over each chilled chocolate crust.
- Sprinkle with flaky sea salt and freeze for 30 minutes to set.
Step 4: Optional Chocolate Drizzle
- Melt additional chocolate and drizzle over the caramel drops for a decorative touch.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Store in the fridge or freezer and enjoy these salty-sweet caramel bites anytime!
Notes
- For a crunchier texture: Add chopped nuts to the caramel before setting.
- Want a softer caramel? Increase heavy cream to ⅓ cup for a gooier filling.
- Storage: Keep refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for 1 month.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- chill time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Candy
- Method: No-Bake, Freezing
- Cuisine: American
