Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Soft and chewy, the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe combines sweet caramel with buttery dough and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to please everyone from kids to adults. With their gooey caramel pockets and rich flavor, they bring a bakery-style treat right to your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The perfect balance of sweet caramel and buttery dough creates a delightful taste experience.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a dessert, snack, or even at gatherings; they’re perfect for any occasion!
• Gooey Texture: With pockets of melted caramel throughout, each bite offers a deliciously chewy texture.
• Customization Options: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate chips for added variety.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools for an efficient process. Having everything ready will make creating these delightful cookies easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer or hand mixer: Ensures that butter and sugars are creamed to the perfect light and fluffy texture.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, allowing for easy removal once baked.

Ingredients

To create these scrumptious salted caramel cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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 Caramel Chips

• 1 cup caramel chips (For gooey caramel pockets)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (Optional for richness)

For Topping

• 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). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Baking soda
3. Salt

Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to cream:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add eggs one at a time into the creamed mixture. Mix well after each addition. Then stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture:
1. Mix until just combined – don’t overmix!

Step 6: Fold in Chips

Gently fold in:
1. Caramel chips
2. Chocolate chips (if using)

This ensures even distribution without breaking down the batter.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

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

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before placing in the oven, lightly sprinkle each cookie with flaky sea salt for that perfect sweet-salty contrast.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers are still soft.

Step 10: Cool Cookies

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked salted caramel cookies!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Serving your salted caramel cookies can elevate the experience, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that pair well with these scrumptious treats.

Pair with Milk

• A classic pairing! Dip your salted caramel cookies in a glass of cold milk for a comforting and nostalgic treat.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This adds a creamy texture to the chewy cookie.

Coffee Companion

• Enjoy these cookies with your morning or afternoon coffee. The rich flavors of the cookie complement the coffee’s bitterness perfectly.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange your salted caramel cookies on a dessert platter with other baked goods. This makes an appealing presentation for gatherings or parties.

Gift Them

• Package cookies in a decorative box or jar as gifts for friends and family. They make delightful homemade presents for any occasion.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Perfecting your salted caramel cookies can turn good cookies into great ones. Follow these tips for the best results.

• 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 maintain the chewy texture; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the bag to avoid adding too much flour.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips for unique variations on flavor.
• Cool Before Storing: Allow cookies to cool completely before storing in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Complementing your salted caramel cookies with side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad balances sweetness with its tartness, making it a light side dish alongside rich cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit in a glass for a creamy contrast that pairs well with the cookie’s texture.

3. Chocolate Mousse
   The smooth richness of chocolate mousse is a luxurious addition that enhances the overall dessert experience.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of soft cheeses can provide a savory contrast that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.

5. Warm Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over your cookie adds extra indulgence, perfect for chocolate lovers!

6. Coffee or Tea
   Serving coffee or tea allows guests to enjoy their cookies while sipping on a warm beverage, enhancing flavors further.

7. Ice Cream
   A scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream is always a hit, creating a delightful mix of temperatures and textures.

8. Nut Brittle
   The crunchiness of nut brittle provides an interesting texture contrast while tying in flavors nicely with the cookie’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe a success. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use proper measuring cups and spoons to ensure the right ratios.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter makes it hard to cream with sugars. Always soften your butter at room temperature for the best texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a soft, chewy texture.
• Skipping the flaky sea salt: The sprinkle of sea salt enhances flavor beautifully. Don’t skip this step for that sweet-salty contrast.
• Baking on an unlined sheet: Baking sheets without parchment can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Always line your sheets for easy removal and cleanup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes, feel free to experiment with dark, milk, or even white chocolate chips based on your taste preferences!

How do I make the cookies chewier?

To achieve a chewier texture, try using more brown sugar than granulated sugar in your recipe.

Can I substitute caramel chips?

Absolutely! You can use homemade caramel or even butterscotch chips if you prefer a different flavor profile.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much?

If your cookies spread excessively, try chilling the dough before baking. This helps maintain their shape.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please any cookie lover. Its versatility allows for various customization options, such as adding nuts or using different types of chocolate. Don’t hesitate to try this easy recipe; your friends and family will thank you!