Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Soft and chewy, the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is a delightful treat that combines rich caramel flavors with buttery cookie dough. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, treating yourself, or baking for loved ones. The balance of sweet and salty, along with the gooey caramel pockets, makes them irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for beginners and yields delicious results every time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of caramel chips and flaky sea salt creates a unique flavor profile that will impress your taste buds.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert after dinner, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Gooey Goodness: Enjoy the satisfying texture of gooey caramel pockets in every bite.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or substitute chocolate chips based on your preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Salted Caramel Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together for that light, fluffy texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking, making cleanup easier and ensuring even baking.
• Cookie scoop: Helps to create uniformly sized cookies for consistent baking results.

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 the Add-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)

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This sets up the perfect environment for baking your cookies.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Measure out 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour.
2. Add in 1 tsp of baking soda.
3. Stir in 1 tsp of salt.
4. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1. 1 cup of softened unsalted butter,
2. ¾ cup granulated sugar,
3. ¾ cup brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in:
1. Two large eggs one at a time,
2. Followed by adding in 2 tsp of vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in the dry ingredient mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Fold in Chips

Gently fold in:
1. 1 cup caramel chips,
2. Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips if desired for added richness.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Add Flaky Sea Salt

Before placing them in the oven, sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt for that delicious contrast.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Step 10: Cool

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

Enjoy your warm Salted Caramel Cookies!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Serving salted caramel cookies can elevate any occasion. They are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can enhance their rich flavor.

Pair with Coffee

• Espresso: The boldness of espresso complements the sweetness of the cookie.
• Latte: A creamy latte balances the flavors and adds a comforting touch.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice for a sweet and creamy contrast.
• Salted Caramel Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat that mirrors the cookie’s flavor.

Milk Dipping Station

• Cold Milk: A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s richness.
• Chocolate Milk: Adds a fun twist to the traditional pairing with a hint of sweetness.

Dessert Platter

• Fruit Slices: Fresh apples or pears provide a refreshing balance to the cookies’ sweetness.
• Cheese Board: Soft cheeses like brie create an interesting flavor profile when paired with salted caramel flavors.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Achieving the perfect salted caramel cookie requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Chill Your Dough: Letting the dough chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading and results in thicker cookies.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
• Preheat Oven Properly: Always preheat your oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add extra toppings like nuts or more chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Pairing side dishes with salted caramel cookies can make your dessert spread even more appealing. Here are some ideas:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy complement.
3. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like goat cheese or brie for a rich, savory contrast.
4. Chocolate Fondue: A fun interactive dessert that pairs beautifully with fruits or pretzels.
5. Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Light and fluffy mini cupcakes can be a fun addition to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your salted caramel cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect oven temperature: Always preheat your oven to the correct temperature before baking. An oven that’s too hot or too cold can affect the cookie’s texture and doneness.

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing the dough too much can lead to tough cookies. Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined for a softer texture.

• Skipping the chilling step: If time allows, chill your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.

• Using expired ingredients: Check that your baking soda and flour are fresh. Expired ingredients may yield disappointing results in taste and texture.

• Not measuring correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5 minutes for a freshly-baked taste.

• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, just until warm.

• Stovetop: Lightly toast on a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this salted caramel cookie recipe.

How long do these cookies last?

These salted caramel cookies can last up to one week in an airtight container at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Can I use different types of chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite chips like butterscotch or peanut butter for unique flavor combinations.

What makes this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe special?

This recipe features a perfect blend of sweet caramel and flaky sea salt, creating an irresistible balance that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup as an alternative.

Final Thoughts

These salted caramel cookies are not only soft and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various chips or nuts based on your preferences. Give this easy recipe a try, and enjoy bakery-quality treats right at home!