Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines the rich flavors of caramel with a delightful chewiness, this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is just what you need! These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight treat or sharing them at a family gathering. The balance of sweet caramel and buttery dough, topped off with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, makes these cookies irresistible. Trust me, once you bake these, they’ll become a favorite in your household!

Baking always brings back warm memories for me, and this recipe is no exception. It’s easy enough for kids to help with, making it a fun activity to do together. Plus, who can resist the smell of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe comes together in no time! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These treats are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
• Perfectly chewy texture: The combination of brown sugar and caramel chips creates the perfect chewy bite every time.
• Make-ahead friendly: Dough can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for fresh cookies anytime!
• Versatile flavors: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite mix-ins or adjusting the sweetness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have at home. Each one plays an important role in creating those soft and chewy cookies we love.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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)

For the Sweet Additions

• 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

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment and make it your own.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch.
• Make it chocolatey: Substitute half of the flour with cocoa powder for a rich chocolate version.
• Switch up the chips: Use butterscotch or peanut butter chips instead of caramel for different flavors.
• Add spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can bring an extra warmth to your cookies.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly right from the start. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper – this will keep your cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze!

Step 2: Mix Your Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it helps distribute the baking soda evenly throughout the flour. Set this mixture aside while you work on your wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookies achieve that delightful chewy texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients not only add moisture but also elevate the flavor profile of your cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

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

Step 6: Fold in Sweet Additions

Gently fold in those gooey caramel chips and optional chocolate chips. This is where all that deliciousness comes from – each bite will be filled with sweet surprises!

Step 7: Scoop Your Dough

Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, drop mounds of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread as they bake!

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before popping them into the oven, sprinkle each cookie dough mound with flaky sea salt. This adds that perfect touch of contrast between sweet and salty.

Step 9: Bake Your Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown but still soft in the center. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 10: Cool Down

Once baked, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step allows them to set perfectly while maintaining their soft texture inside.

Enjoy these delightful salted caramel cookies warm from the oven or stored in an airtight container for later – if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your salted caramel cookies come out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature allows for better incorporation, resulting in a smoother dough and chewier cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until the dry ingredients are combined helps maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the dough if possible: If you have extra time, chilling the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavors and prevents spreading during baking.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time to avoid overbaking. You want them soft in the center!

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to get creative! Adding a drizzle of melted chocolate or more caramel on top after baking can elevate these cookies even further.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Serving your salted caramel cookies can be as fun and creative as making them! Here are some delightful ideas to impress your friends and family.

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt: A light sprinkle on top before serving enhances the sweet-salty flavor profile of the cookies.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over the cooled cookies for an added touch of elegance.
• Caramel sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce adds an indulgent finish that will make your cookies irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm salted caramel cookies, creating a delightful contrast.

• Fresh berries: Serve with a side of fresh strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing burst of flavor that balances the sweetness.

• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements the rich flavors of the cookies while offering a soothing experience.

• Milk: Classic and comforting, serving these cookies with a glass of cold milk is always a hit, especially for kids!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your delicious salted caramel cookie creation! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These salted caramel cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can bake a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making them ideal for snacks or dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing

• To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Enjoy warm for that fresh-baked taste!

FAQs

Have questions? Here are some common inquiries about this delicious recipe.

What is the best way to make salted caramel cookie recipe?

The best way is to follow the steps carefully, ensuring each ingredient is mixed well. Use high-quality caramel chips for the gooey pockets of sweetness that make these cookies special!

Can I use other types of chocolate in this salted caramel cookie recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute with white chocolate chips or even dark chocolate chips depending on your preference. Each variation adds a unique flavor twist!

How do I ensure my salted caramel cookies are chewy?

To achieve that perfect chewiness, be careful not to overbake them. Keep an eye on the edges—they should just be golden while the centers remain soft.

Can I make this salted caramel cookie recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just ensure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I store salted caramel cookie leftovers?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them as mentioned above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful salted caramel cookies as much as I do! They strike that perfect balance between sweet and salty, offering a treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. So go ahead, whip up a batch, share them with loved ones, and savor every gooey bite. Happy baking!