Name: Irresistibly Chewy Salted Caramel Cookies You’ll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (This forms the backbone of your delicious salted caramel cookies.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect chewy texture.); 1 teaspoon salt (Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the caramel.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Adds richness and ensures a soft, tender cookie.); ¾ cup granulated sugar (Provides the right amount of sweetness and helps with browning.); ¾ cup brown sugar (Adds a hint of molasses flavor, enhancing the cookie's depth.); 2 large eggs (These give the cookies structure and help them rise beautifully.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that complements the caramel.); 1 cup caramel chips (The star of the show, giving these cookies their irresistible sweetness!); ½ cup chocolate chips (Optional; chocolate adds a delightful contrast.); ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt (Sprinkled on top, enhances flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of melted caramel enveloping me, I couldn’t help but smile. There's something magical about the fusion of sweet and salty, especially when it comes to baking. These Salted Caramel Cookies are my go-to for indulging my cravings without the fast-food guilt. Not only are they quick to whip up—taking just about 55 minutes from start to finish—but they also bring joy to both kids and grown-ups alike. The delightful combination of gooey caramel and a hint of flaky sea salt elevates these cookies to an irresistible level of comfort food. Want to join me on this delicious journey? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these heavenly treats together!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavor: The blend of caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt creates a tantalizing taste explosion that’s hard to resist.

Quick to Make: In just 55 minutes, you can have these delightful cookies fresh out of the oven, perfect for a last-minute indulgence.

Versatile Enjoyment: Serve these with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a cozy snack or pair with vanilla ice cream for an exquisite dessert.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for kids’ birthdays or casual gatherings, these cookies are always a hit, leaving everyone wanting more!

Ease of Preparation: With simple, everyday ingredients, anyone can recreate this magic, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.

Explore more sweet ideas with these delightful Pencil Cookies Fun or classic Chocolate Chip Cookies for more tasty inspirations!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookie Base
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – This forms the backbone of your delicious salted caramel cookies.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve that perfect chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the caramel.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and ensures a soft, tender cookie.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Provides the right amount of sweetness and helps with browning.
• ¾ cup brown sugar – Adds a hint of molasses flavor, enhancing the cookie's depth.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature – These give the cookies structure and help them rise beautifully.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, inviting flavor that complements the caramel.

For the Sweet Add-ins
• 1 cup caramel chips – The star of the show, giving these cookies their irresistible sweetness!
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional) – Variations never hurt; chocolate adds a delightful contrast.
• ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt – Sprinkled on top, enhances the flavor and adds a satisfying crunch.

Now that you have everything you need, it’s time to embark on creating these delectable salted caramel cookies! Happy baking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Salted Caramel Cookies bake evenly and achieve that golden edge. While the oven heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This step is crucial as it combines the dry ingredients for your cookies, ensuring a well-balanced texture. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients for your Salted Caramel Cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. You'll know it's ready when it looks pale and airy, perfect for creating chewy cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, blend in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture on low speed until everything is combined and smooth. This step not only helps bind the ingredients but also infuses your Salted Caramel Cookies with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky, indicating you’re on the right track towards the perfect batch of Salted Caramel Cookies!

Step 6: Fold in Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of caramel chips and ½ cup of chocolate chips, if desired, using a spatula or wooden spoon. This will add delightful bursts of flavor and texture to your cookies. You’ll know the dough is ready when it’s uniformly mixed, showcasing pockets of caramel goodness.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball. This will allow the Salted Caramel Cookies to spread beautifully while baking, creating those perfect chewy edges.

Step 8: Add Sea Salt
Just before baking, sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt. This enhances the sweet and salty flavor profile and creates that irresistible crunch on top. The contrast will make your Salted Caramel Cookies truly memorable.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as the cookies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven. The centers should appear set but still soft for the perfect chewy texture.

Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period will help them firm up while retaining a soft center. Once on the rack, let your Salted Caramel Cookies cool completely, or dig in while they’re still warm for an added indulgence!

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations

Feel free to get creative and transform these cookies into your favorite flavor adventures!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious, allergy-friendly treat.
Vegan-Friendly: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use flax eggs to make this recipe entirely plant-based.
Nutty Goodness: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for extra texture and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give a surprising heat that pairs beautifully with caramel's sweetness.
Fruit Infusion: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist that balances the rich caramel.
Chocolate Lovers: Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a richer and more complex flavor.
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle melted caramel sauce over the cookies right after baking for an extra indulgent touch.
Seasonal Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice for a warm, cozy flavor perfect for the fall season.

No matter how you choose to customize these cookies, they're sure to bring warmth and joy to your home. If you’re looking for more delightful options, check out these comforting Pencil Cookies Fun and classic Chocolate Chip Cookies for endless inspiration!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Cookies?

Indulging in freshly baked cookies can transform any day into a special occasion, especially when they're warm and gooey.

Cold Glass of Milk: Complement the sweetness of your cookies with a classic glass of cold milk, creating a nostalgic pairing that everyone loves.
Rich Coffee: The bitterness of a dark coffee enhances the cookie’s caramel sweetness, making for a cozy treat during your afternoon break.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your cookies, allowing the warm cookie to melt into the cold ice cream for an extraordinary dessert experience.
Chopped Nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor, harmonizing beautifully with the sweet and salty elements of the cookies.
Fresh Berries: Brighten your plate with fresh strawberries or raspberries, whose tartness cuts through the sweetness, adding a refreshing touch.
Hot Chocolate: Enjoy with a steaming mug of hot chocolate for a cozy night in, where rich chocolate meets sugary goodness.
Dessert Wine: For adult gatherings, pairing with a dessert wine like Moscato enhances the sweet notes, making your treat feel extra special.
Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate the flavor by drizzling melted chocolate over your cookies for an additional layer of indulgence.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Consider spreading a light layer of cream cheese frosting for an unexpected twist, matching the cookie's flavors while adding creaminess.

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Don’t Overmix: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tougher cookies. Stop as soon as the dry ingredients disappear for a chewy Salted Caramel Cookie.

Chill the Dough: For a thicker cookie, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps control spread and enhances flavors.

Use Room Temperature Eggs: Room temperature eggs mix better, leading to a lighter texture. Take them out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before you start.

Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different. Check your Salted Caramel Cookies at the 10-minute mark; they should be golden at the edges but soft in the center.

Add Extra Caramel Chips: For an even more indulgent treat, feel free to add additional caramel chips to the dough before baking for bursts of sweetness!

Perfectly Sprinkle Sea Salt: Don't skip the flaky sea salt on top—it creates a wonderful contrast to the sweetness and elevates the overall taste experience!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your Salted Caramel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you want to extend freshness, place the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer in a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Dough Freezing: For future baking, scoop the cookie dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer when a craving strikes!

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, just add an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. When you’re ready to indulge, one quick step ensures the cookies turn out just as delicious: sprinkle them with flaky sea salt right before baking to enhance that mouthwatering flavor. Enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime with this simple prep-ahead strategy!

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of caramel chips should I use for Salted Caramel Cookies?
I recommend using high-quality caramel chips, which can often be found in the baking aisle of your local grocery store. Brands like Kraft or Guittard offer great choices. If you prefer a homemade touch, you can melt soft caramels and fold them into the dough!

How should I store my Salted Caramel Cookies to keep them fresh?
To keep your cookies soft and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just be sure to let them come back to room temperature before eating for the best texture.

Can I freeze the cookie dough for later?
Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a great idea for future baking. Scoop the cookie dough balls onto a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag and store them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough directly onto a baking sheet, adding an extra minute or two to the bake time.

What should I do if the cookies spread too much while baking?
If you find that your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to warm butter or not enough flour. Make sure your butter is softened, not melted, and try adding a tablespoon of flour to the dough. Additionally, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help control the spread and ensure that your Salted Caramel Cookies maintain a nice shape.

Are Salted Caramel Cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets, especially dogs. The ingredients like chocolate chips can be toxic to them. Always check for any potential allergens when sharing treats, and opt for pet-safe goodies made specifically for your furry friends.

Can I substitute the butter for a healthier option?
Certainly! For a lighter version, you can use coconut oil or applesauce in place of butter. If using coconut oil, make sure it’s in a solid state but softened slightly for easier mixing. This can change the texture a bit, but many enjoy the unique flavor twist it provides!