Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that’s sure to impress, you’ve come to the right place! This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is one of my all-time favorites. There’s something magical about the combination of soft, chewy dough and gooey caramel pockets, all topped with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s a delightful balance of flavors that makes these cookies perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply in need of a cozy snack on a busy weeknight.

These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. In just under an hour, you can have warm, bakery-style cookies right from your own kitchen. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies, and this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake them fresh whenever you want.
• Deliciously Addictive: The combination of caramel and sea salt creates an irresistible flavor that keeps you coming back for more!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookies

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure)
• 1 tsp baking soda (Helps cookies rise)
• 1 tsp salt (Balances sweetness)
• 1 cup unsalted butter (Softened)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (Adds crisp texture)
• ¾ cup brown sugar (Adds moisture and caramel flavor)
• 2 large eggs (Room temperature)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract (Enhances flavor)
• 1 cup caramel chips (For gooey caramel pockets)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (Optional for richness)
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt (For sweet-salty contrast)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with your cookie-making. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Use different chips: Swap out the chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch chips for a different twist.
• Mix in dried fruit: Try adding raisins or cranberries for a fruity surprise.
• Make them smaller: Roll smaller dough balls for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps combine the dry ingredients evenly so that each cookie has the perfect balance of flavors.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, giving your cookies their delightful texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in each egg one at a time, ensuring they’re fully blended before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This adds depth of flavor to your cookies that’s simply irresistible!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in your dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies to stay soft and chewy!

Step 6: Fold in Chips

Gently fold in the caramel chips and optional chocolate chips. This step creates those gooey pockets of sweetness that make every bite so enjoyable.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Sheets

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for spreading while baking.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before popping them into the oven, sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt. This adds that perfect sweet-salty contrast we love.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly!

Step 10: Cool Before Enjoying

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set up nicely while still being warm enough to enjoy straight away!

Now you’re ready to indulge in these delightful salted caramel cookies! Enjoy every chewy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Baking should be a joyful experience, and these tips will help ensure your salted caramel cookies turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature helps them mix more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and better texture in the final cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined keeps your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies due to excessive gluten formation.

• Chill the dough if time permits: If you let your cookie dough chill for 30 minutes before baking, it enhances the flavors and can prevent spreading, giving you thicker cookies.

• Experiment with mix-ins: While this recipe calls for caramel and chocolate chips, feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even different types of chocolate for a unique twist on flavor and texture.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their softness and prevent them from becoming stale too quickly.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Presentation can elevate even the simplest dessert into something special! Here are some delightful ways to serve your salted caramel cookies.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A light drizzle of melted chocolate over the top adds visual appeal and an extra layer of richness.

• Additional flaky sea salt: Just a pinch of extra flaky sea salt right before serving enhances the sweet-salty contrast that makes these cookies irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture and vanilla flavor perfectly complement the warm salted caramel cookie, creating a classic dessert pairing.

• Fresh berries: A side of fresh berries adds a refreshing contrast in taste and color, balancing the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

• Coffee or tea: Serving these cookies with a cup of coffee or herbal tea not only enhances their flavors but also provides a comforting experience that’s perfect for any occasion.

• Milk: A classic pairing! A tall glass of cold milk is always a hit with cookies, creating a nostalgic treat that everyone loves.

Enjoy making these salted caramel cookies as you share them with family and friends. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These salted caramel cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time, store them, and enjoy delicious cookies whenever the craving hits.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy within 5 days for the best texture and flavor.

Freezing

• Allow baked cookies to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.
• Enjoy your rejuvenated cookies just like fresh from the oven!

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place. Here are some common queries!

What makes this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe special?

This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe stands out because it perfectly balances sweet caramel with a hint of flaky sea salt, creating an irresistible treat that’s soft and chewy.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even butterscotch chips. Each will add its own unique flavor profile while still complementing the salted caramel beautifully.

How do I know when my salted caramel cookies are done?

Your salted caramel cookies are done when the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Is there a way to make this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your caramel chips are also gluten-free, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free cookies!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe! These delightful treats bring together sweet and salty flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking for friends or indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to brighten your day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your cookie creations with loved ones!