Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Soft and chewy, the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is a delightful treat that balances sweet caramel with buttery dough and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these cookies are easy to make and deliver bakery-quality results right from your kitchen. With their gooey caramel pockets and optional chocolate chips, they’re sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Rich Flavor Combination: The blend of caramel and buttery goodness creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for various occasions—from casual snacks to festive parties—these cookies fit any setting.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit for an extra twist in flavor and texture.
• Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With rich flavors and appealing textures, these cookies are sure to be a hit among family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

To create your salted caramel cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smoother. Having the right equipment ensures your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (or manual mixer)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and energy when creaming butter and sugars together, ensuring your mixture is light and fluffy.

Ingredients

Soft and chewy salted caramel cookies with a perfect balance of sweet caramel, buttery dough, and flaky sea salt. This easy-to-make recipe delivers bakery-quality cookies without the hassle.

For the 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 Caramel Goodness

• 1 cup caramel chips (For gooey caramel pockets)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (Optional for richness)
• ½ tsp flaky sea salt (For sweet-salty contrast)

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while preparing your baking sheets.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, and 1 tsp salt.
2. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl:
1. Use an electric mixer to cream together 1 cup unsalted butter, ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time.
2. Add in 2 tsp vanilla extract, mixing until well-combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients from Step 3 until just combined.

Step 7: Fold in Chips

Gently fold in:
– 1 cup caramel chips
– Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips

Step 8: Scoop Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, place dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 9: Sprinkle Sea Salt

Before baking, sprinkle each cookie with a touch of flaky sea salt for added flavor contrast.

Step 10: Bake

Bake the cookies for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 11: Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Cookies!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

These salted caramel cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, here are some delicious ways to serve them.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s sweetness and creaminess.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• For caramel lovers, adding extra sauce elevates the flavor and indulgence.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter for parties or gatherings to create an eye-catching display.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Pair with slices of apple or pear for a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Perfecting your salted caramel cookies can elevate them to bakery-quality treats. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can help control spreading during baking.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.

• Experiment with Mix-ins: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Complement your salted caramel cookies with these delightful side dishes. Each option adds its own unique flair to your dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits balances sweetness and adds refreshing flavors.
2. Whipped Cream: Serve alongside whipped cream for an airy, creamy complement.
3. Chocolate Mousse: Rich and velvety, chocolate mousse pairs wonderfully with the cookies’ texture.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that contrasts the sweetness.
5. Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup enhances flavors and provides a comforting beverage option.
6. Cheese Plate: Add mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to offer a savory contrast to sweet cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for when making your salted caramel cookie recipe.

• Boldly measuring ingredients – Not measuring flour and sugar accurately can affect the cookie texture. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring room temperature ingredients – Using cold butter or eggs can prevent your dough from mixing properly. Let these ingredients sit out for about 30 minutes before using.
• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping the sea salt – The flaky sea salt is essential for balancing sweetness. Always sprinkle it on top before baking for that perfect sweet-salty contrast.
• Not checking baking time – Overbaking will result in dry cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they are lightly golden at the edges.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Warm cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe special?

This recipe combines soft, chewy dough with rich caramel and a hint of sea salt, creating a delightful balance of flavors that elevates traditional cookies.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference to customize the flavor profile of your salted caramel cookie recipe.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to cook slightly while cooling on the baking sheet.

What if I don’t have caramel chips?

You can make homemade caramel by melting down sugar or use chopped soft caramels instead, ensuring they melt perfectly into the cookie dough.

Final Thoughts

This salted caramel cookie recipe is not only easy to follow but also allows for delightful customization options like adding nuts or different types of chocolate. With their perfect blend of sweetness and saltiness, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate; give this recipe a try!