Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy, this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is just what you need! These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with sweet caramel goodness, balanced perfectly by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family night or need to impress guests at a gathering, this recipe never disappoints. Plus, it’s so simple to make that even the busiest weeknights can include freshly baked cookies!

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of the warm afternoons spent in the kitchen with loved ones. The aroma of these cookies baking fills the house with warmth and nostalgia, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste before they cool down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: You don’t need to be an expert baker to whip up these delicious cookies. The steps are straightforward and quick!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the gooey caramel pockets and sweet-salty contrast.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time, and they stay fresh for days—perfect for snacks or dessert.
• Bakery-Quality Taste at Home: Enjoy the luxurious flavors of bakery-style cookies without leaving your kitchen!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that you’ll likely have on hand. Gather them up to create cookies that taste like they came straight from your favorite bakery!

Dry Ingredients

• 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure)
• 1 tsp baking soda (Helps cookies rise)
• 1 tsp salt (Balances sweetness)

Wet Ingredients

• 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)

Mix-Ins

• 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 its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add Nuts: Stir in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try using different flavored extracts such as almond or coconut for a unique twist.
• Layer with Other Treats: Incorporate crushed candies or other chocolate types into the dough for added fun.
• Adjust Sweetness: Use less sugar if you prefer a less sweet cookie base; just balance it out with more caramel chips.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agent throughout the flour, resulting in perfectly risen cookies.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process introduces air into the mixture, giving your cookies that delightful texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in each egg one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract. The eggs help bind everything together while adding moisture. Don’t skip this step!

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Fold in Caramel Chips

Gently fold in the caramel chips—and chocolate chips if you’re using them—making sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Scoop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives them room to spread while baking.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before placing them in the oven, sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt. This step adds that irresistible sweet-salty contrast we all love!

Step 9: Bake!

Bake your cookies for about 10-12 minutes until their edges are golden brown but centers remain soft. This creates that perfect chewy texture.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy their tantalizing aroma as they cool—you won’t be able to resist diving in!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and these tips will help you create the most scrumptious salted caramel cookies!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing butter and eggs to come to room temperature ensures they incorporate smoothly, resulting in a tender cookie texture.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps maintain the cookies’ soft and chewy consistency. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies!
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and helps control spread during baking, leading to thicker cookies.
• Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to swap chocolate chips for nuts or dried fruits to customize your cookies. Just remember that different add-ins can alter the flavor profile and texture.
• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh longer, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls for future cravings!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

These salted caramel cookies are perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, here’s how to present them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Flaky sea salt: A sprinkle on top right before serving enhances the sweet-salty contrast and adds visual appeal.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies for an elegant touch.
• Caramel sauce: Serve alongside a small dish of warm caramel sauce for dipping or drizzling, making each bite even more indulgent.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream complements the chewy cookies perfectly, creating a delightful dessert combination.
• Fresh fruit platter: A selection of seasonal fruits such as berries or sliced apples provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.
• Coffee or tea: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea for an inviting afternoon treat that balances sweetness with warmth.
• Milk: A classic choice! A cold glass of milk is always a comforting companion to freshly baked cookies, enhancing their flavor with every bite.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your salted caramel cookie experience will be truly unforgettable! Enjoy every delicious moment.

Make Ahead and Storage

These salted caramel cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh, warm cookies whenever you crave something sweet! Here’s how to store and preserve them for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• To maintain their softness, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies.
• If you notice any cookies getting too hard, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place individual cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• These cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Just label and date your containers!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or leftover cookies on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds until just warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious salted caramel cookie recipe!

How do I make my salted caramel cookie recipe even chewier?

To achieve an extra chewy texture, consider slightly underbaking the cookies. Remove them from the oven when they still look soft in the center; they will continue to cook as they cool down.

Can I use different types of chips in my salted caramel cookie recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, or even peanut butter chips. Each variation will offer a unique twist on this delightful recipe.

What should I do if my salted caramel cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels overly sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will make it easier to scoop and shape.

How can I customize my salted caramel cookie recipe?

You can customize these cookies by adding nuts like pecans or walnuts or mixing in dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins. This adds extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these salted caramel cookies as much as I do! They embody a delightful balance of sweetness and richness that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Remember, baking is all about fun and creativity—don’t hesitate to make it your own. Happy baking!