Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, you’ve come to the right place! This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is a true gem in my collection. The combination of soft, chewy dough with pockets of gooey caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt creates an irresistible balance of flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the warmth it brings to any occasion. They’re perfect for sharing with friends, packing into lunch boxes, or enjoying with a cup of tea after a long day. Trust me; once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why these cookies quickly become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves cookies! These salted caramel delights are sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready for that warm cookie experience.
• Bakery-Quality Taste: Enjoy the rich flavor of bakery-style cookies right from your own kitchen, impressing friends and family.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion – from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Salted Caramel Cookies. You probably have many of these in your pantry already!

For the Cookie 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 Delicious 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)

Variations

This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it to your taste!

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Change the chips: Swap caramel chips for butterscotch or peanut butter chips for a twist.
• Try different flours: Use whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor and added nutrition.
• Mix in spices: A pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder can elevate the flavor profile even more.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper so that the cookies don’t stick—trust me, this makes cleanup easier!

Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial because it evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt throughout the flour, ensuring every bite has that perfect balance.

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 incorporates air into the mixture which helps create those lovely chewy textures we all adore in cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Then add the vanilla extract. Each addition helps build that creamy consistency while infusing delicious flavors into your dough.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in your dry ingredient mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; we want tender cookies!

Step 6: Fold in Chips

Gently fold in those luscious caramel chips and chocolate chips if you’re using them. This is where all that gooey goodness comes from!

Step 7: Scoop onto Baking Sheets

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto your prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. They will spread as they bake.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before placing them in the oven, sprinkle each cookie with a little flaky sea salt. This adds an irresistible touch that perfectly balances out the sweetness.

Step 9: Bake

Bake those beauties in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown but still soft in the center.

Step 10: Cool

Let them cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set properly while still warm—perfect for enjoying straight out of the oven!

And there you have it! A delightful batch of salted caramel cookies that are sure to bring joy into your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

These cookies are sure to impress family and friends, so let’s make them even better with a few helpful tips!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature ensures that they incorporate smoothly, creating a well-blended dough that’s light and fluffy.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined prevents gluten development, resulting in tender cookies instead of tough ones. Remember, a little flour still visible is okay!
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking helps develop flavors and can create thicker cookies with a beautiful texture.
• Watch the baking time: Every oven is different—start checking your cookies at the lower end of the baking time to avoid over-baking. Look for golden edges and soft centers!
• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies by mixing in nuts or dried fruit. This not only adds flavor but also enhances texture!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Serving these salted caramel cookies can be just as fun as making them! Get creative and enjoy them in various ways.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate on top adds a luxurious touch that complements the caramel perfectly.
• Sprinkle of sea salt: An extra pinch of flaky sea salt right before serving enhances that sweet-salty flavor profile and makes them look irresistible.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla almond milk: This creamy non-dairy milk pairs wonderfully with cookies, balancing the sweetness while adding a nutty flavor.
• Fresh fruit platter: A selection of fresh fruits like strawberries, apples, or grapes provides a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
• Dairy-free ice cream: Serving these cookies alongside a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience that everyone will love.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can enhance the flavors of your cookies while providing a cozy atmosphere for enjoying them.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to make your salted caramel cookie experience truly delightful! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep your delicious cookies fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to a week.
• For added freshness, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a zip-top bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Enjoy that gooey caramel goodness!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I use different types of flour for the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends if you need a gluten-free option. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute for best results.

How do I make my Salted Caramel Cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help control spreading and give you that perfect chewy texture.

Can I add nuts to the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add extra crunch and flavor. Just fold them in along with the caramel chips.

What should I do if my cookies come out too flat?

If your cookies spread too much, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Also, check that you’re using the correct amount of flour and consider chilling the dough before baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe becomes a cherished favorite in your home! With its delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Don’t hesitate to experiment with add-ins or share them with friends and family—everyone deserves a taste of this sweet treat! Happy baking!