If you've ever dipped a french fry in a milkshake or munched on kettle corn, then you know the deliciousness that happens when sweet meets savory. The same way salt enhances the flavor in savory food, it makes plenty of sweets taste sweeter and also creates another dimension of flavor. Consider the recent phenomenon that is salted caramel, which is found everywhere from your morning coffee to the doughnut you might be pairing it with. While you can find plenty of recipes for cupcakes, brownies and cookies that are topped with, stuffed with or dipped in salted caramel, there are other ways to explore the salty-sweet magic. Kosher salt is the standard in most kitchens and will do the trick in many of these salted desserts, but you may want to try out some other varieties, too. Flaky fleur de sel brings a clean, salty flavor and a wonderful crunch to every bite. Smoked sea salt brings the campfire indoors; remember that a little bit goes a long way. Himalayan pink salt has a gentle flavor and looks beautiful to boot.

Photography by Jackie Alpers

A salty, crunchy pretzel crust is the perfect complement for ultrasweet strawberry pie, but don't stop there; you can also use the same type of pretzel crust for other desserts, such as lemon bars and cheesecake.