This tart blends buttery pastry, silky miso caramel, and crisp caramel popcorn; a sharp balance of sweet, salty, and toasty flavours. The miso gives the caramel an umami depth that cuts through holiday richness, making it ideal for Christmas gatherings where guests want a dessert that surprises without being overly heavy.
Rub the cold butter into the flour, sugar, and salt until the mixture forms coarse crumbs with a few visible butter bits. Add the yolk and a splash of ice water just until the dough comes together when pinched. Flatten into a disc, wrap, and chill to help the fat firm up and prevent shrinking during baking.
Description - Step 2
Blind-Bake the Shell
Roll the chilled dough and ease it into a 9-inch tart tin without stretching it. Prick the base, line with parchment, and fill with baking weights to keep it from puffing. Bake at 180°C for 15 minutes, remove the weights, and bake again until lightly golden. Let it cool completely before adding any filling.
Description - Step 3
Cook the Miso Caramel
Heat sugar and water without stirring until the syrup turns a deep amber. Off the heat, add the warm cream slowly—steam and bubbles are normal. Stir in butter until smooth. Whisk in the miso and vanilla until the mixture becomes glossy and evenly seasoned with its savoury edge.
Description - Step 4
Fill the Tart
Pour the warm miso caramel into the cooled tart shell, gently tilting the pan for an even layer. Set the tart aside for 45–60 minutes so the caramel thickens enough to support the topping without running over the edges.
Description - Step 5
Make Caramel Popcorn
Melt sugar in a saucepan until amber, then stir in butter and a pinch of salt. Remove from heat and add baking soda to lighten the caramel. Toss the popcorn quickly so every piece is coated. Spread on parchment and let it cool before breaking into clusters.
Description - Step 6
Assemble the Tart
Once the caramel has set to a soft but stable firmness, arrange the caramel popcorn over the surface. Light pressure helps the pieces adhere while keeping their airy texture intact.
Description - Step 7
Chill & Slice
Refrigerate the tart briefly for cleaner slicing. Use a warm, sharp knife for smooth edges. Keep leftovers chilled in an airtight box for up to three days.