Name: Irresistibly Soft Salted Caramel Cookies to Satisfy Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2.25 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 0.75 cup granulated sugar; 0.75 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup caramel chips; 0.5 cup chocolate chips (optional) (For extra indulgence); to taste flaky sea salt

As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of warm butter and rich caramel began to swirl together, creating an irresistible atmosphere that felt like a warm hug. It was the perfect moment to whip up my go-to treat: Salted Caramel Cookies. This recipe is not only a delightful celebration of flavors but also a quick triumph in the realm of homemade desserts, perfect for those who refuse to settle for the ordinary. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also impress your loved ones with snack-worthy treats they can’t resist. Plus, they’re easily customizable—feel free to toss in some chocolate chips for that extra indulgence. Are you ready to uncover the secret to baking these delightful salted caramel cookies?

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Rich, Decadent Flavor: These salted caramel cookies are bursting with sweet and savory goodness, thanks to the perfect blend of caramel chips and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

Easy Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep, you'll have these delightful cookies in the oven before you know it!

Customizable Fun: Love chocolate? Add in chocolate chips for a double treat! Tailor them to your taste and impress your friends and family.

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings, these cookies are a guaranteed hit at parties or family events. They are the kind of treat that brings everyone together!

Indulge in the simple joy of baking by exploring more sweet treats like these classic chocolate chip cookies or perhaps some delicious oatmeal cookies. The possibilities are endless!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

• Make your baking smoother with these essential ingredients!

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides the base for your salted caramel cookies, giving them structure and chewiness.
Baking soda – This leavening agent helps the cookies rise for that perfect texture.
Salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness of the caramel.
Unsalted butter – Use softened butter for a creamy, rich texture that melds beautifully with sugars.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cookie and contributes to its delightful crunch.
Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to the cookies.
Large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and bring richness to your cookies.
Vanilla extract – Elevates the overall flavor profile with its warm, aromatic scent.

For the Sweet Add-Ins

Caramel chips – The star of these cookies, offering gooey bites of caramel goodness in every bite.
Chocolate chips (optional) – For those who want an extra layer of indulgence, chocolate chips complement the caramel perfectly.

For the Finishing Touch

Flaky sea salt – A sprinkle at the end enhances the sweet and salty contrast that makes these cookies unforgettable.

Dive into the world of home baking with these salted caramel cookie ingredients and prepare to indulge in the delightful flavors they bring to life!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This ensures an easy release and perfect golden edges for your salted caramel cookies. Once the oven is ready, you're set to get baking!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture is key for the structure of your cookies. Set it aside, letting those ingredients mingle while you move on to the sweet and creamy components.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This aeration will create a wonderful texture in your salted caramel cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this by adding 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. The mixture should now look smooth and shiny, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it comes together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually pour in your flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing, as that can lead to tougher cookies. Once combined, your dough should be thick and doughy, ready to embrace all the sweet additions to come.

Step 6: Fold in Caramel and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of caramel chips and, if desired, ½ cup of chocolate chips using a spatula. Be careful not to overwork the dough; just mix until the chips are evenly distributed. The dough will be a delightful mixture of chewy caramel bites and chocolatey goodness if you choose to add that extra layer.

Step 7: Scoop and Space the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, placing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the salted caramel cookies to expand as they bake, ensuring you get those perfectly round shapes without merging together.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touches
Before sliding the trays into the oven, sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt. This step will elevate the flavors, enhancing that sweet and salty contrast that makes these salted caramel cookies a true delight.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges appear golden brown. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but don't worry—they'll firm up while cooling. Keep an eye on them, as you want that perfect soft texture!

Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set up nicely. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, filling your space with that deliciously sweet aroma of salted caramel.

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Cookies

Imagine a delightful afternoon, the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your home, inviting loved ones to gather around for a cozy treat.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the chewy cookies, creating a delectable contrast with each bite.
Milk: A classic accompaniment, cold milk enhances the richness of the cookies and balances their sweetness.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of coffee complement the caramel beautifully, making it a delightful choice for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Chocolate Ganache Dip: For the ultimate indulgence, serve your cookies alongside a warm chocolate ganache for dipping and extra sweetness!
Salted Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate your cookies further with a drizzle of salted caramel sauce that echoes their luscious flavor and adds a beautiful finish.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of fresh berries such as raspberries or strawberries provides a fresh contrast to the sweet cookies, lightening the overall taste.
Cinnamon Sugar Dust: Dusting the cookies with cinnamon sugar before serving adds a warm, spiced note that intertwines beautifully with the caramel.
Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a chai latte create a warm and inviting drink that complements the sweet and salty flavors of the cookies.

These delightful pairings will surely elevate your cookie experience, making every moment a sweet celebration.

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and chewy.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can place the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!

Freezer: Freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you're ready to enjoy the frozen cookies, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations

Feel free to explore these scrumptious twists and turns that’ll make your salted caramel cookies uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for delicious gluten-free cookies.
Think about how joyful it would be for your gluten-sensitive friends to enjoy these sweet treats alongside everyone else!
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an extra crunch.
The nuttiness pairs perfectly with the chewiness of the caramel, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Spiced Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced aroma that complements the caramel beautifully.
This adds a festive flair to your cookies, making them perfect for holiday gatherings!
Minty Fresh: Toss in a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist.
Imagine taking a bite and having that refreshing burst of flavor complement the rich caramel - it’s divine!
Double Chocolate: Use 1 cup of chocolate chips instead of caramel chips for a rich chocolatey cookie.
For chocolate lovers, this variation is pure bliss and can even be enjoyed with a glass of milk.
Enhanced Saltiness: Increase the flaky sea salt to 1 teaspoon for a more pronounced salty finish.
This amplified flavor contrast will keep everyone coming back for more bites of goodness!
Bourbon-Infused: Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon for a subtle kick in flavor that deepens the complexity.
This is a fantastic twist for adult gatherings, adding a sophisticated layer to your cookies.
Caramel Swirl: Replace the caramel chips with homemade caramel sauce mixed into the dough for gooey bites.
The luxurious, flowing caramel enhances every bite, and who can resist that sticky goodness?

Embrace your inner creative baker and let these variations elevate your baking experience! For more delightful cookie ideas, don’t miss my classic chocolate chip cookies or give my delicious oatmeal cookies a try!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Perfect Texture: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for a creamy, light batter that leads to soft, chewy cookies.

Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry and wet ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can create dense cookies, rather than the lightness we want in salted caramel cookies.

Space Them Well: Remember to leave 2 inches between scoops on your baking sheets; cookies will spread as they bake and need room to grow.

Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking. Removing them while the centers are still slightly soft will ensure a gooey, perfect texture.

Flaky Salt Finish: Don’t skip the flaky sea salt. This final touch enhances the sweet and salty contrast, making your cookies irresistible!

Enjoy making these delicious salted caramel cookies, and watch them fly off the plate!

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first six steps of the recipe, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. This not only allows the flavors to deepen but helps maintain the right texture when baked. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply scoop the chilled dough onto baking sheets, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and bake as directed, adding an extra minute or two if needed since the dough will be cold. This way, you can indulge in fresh, delicious cookies with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right caramel chips?
Absolutely! When selecting caramel chips, look for ones that have a smooth texture and are free from dark spots or an unusual odor. High-quality chips will melt beautifully, creating that gooey goodness that’s essential in salted caramel cookies. Brands like Kraft or Guittard are popular choices, but feel free to explore local options!

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
For sure! To keep your salted caramel cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their life, refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week. Just let them return to room temperature before enjoying, so they regain their chewy texture!

Can I freeze salted caramel cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your salted caramel cookies, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag, making sure to label them with the date. These can last for up to 3 months! To thaw, simply leave them in the fridge overnight or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What should I do if my cookies turn out too flat?
Ah, the classic cookie conundrum! If your salted caramel cookies spread too much, it may be due to melted butter or overmixing the dough. To troubleshoot, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps it firm up, resulting in thicker, puffier cookies. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh—it’s vital for leavening!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very much! To create gluten-free salted caramel cookies, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, like Bob’s Red Mill or King Arthur. They provide a similar texture but check to make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper binding. Enjoy making them gluten-free for those who need it!

Are these cookies safe for pets?
It’s important to be cautious! While salted caramel cookies are delightful for humans, they are not safe for pets due to the chocolate chips and high sugar content. Chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats, so always keep these treats out of their reach.