Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is a delightful treat that brings together the rich, buttery goodness of cookies with the irresistible allure of salted caramel. Originating from the trend of pairing sweet and salty flavors, this recipe has quickly become a beloved staple in many households. It’s no wonder why people are drawn to the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe; it offers a unique twist on traditional cookies, transforming a classic dessert into something extraordinary. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy family gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe promises to satisfy your taste buds and create memorable moments.
What Is Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe
The Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe features a soft, chewy cookie base infused with chunks of rich, gooey salted caramel. Each bite is a delightful interplay of textures, with the tender cookie yielding to the luscious caramel, creating an experience that’s both comforting and indulgent. Unlike standard chocolate chip cookies or oatmeal raisin, the addition of salted caramel elevates these cookies to gourmet status, appealing to both kids and adults alike. The combination of sweet caramel and a hint of sea salt creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible, making it a standout dessert in any cookie lineup.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Deliciously addictive, with the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
- Family-friendly; kids will love helping to mix the dough and add the caramel!
- Perfect for sharing; these cookies make an excellent gift or party treat.
How Does It Taste?
The flavor profile of the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is nothing short of heavenly. Imagine biting into a warm cookie, the buttery sweetness melting in your mouth, quickly complemented by the rich, velvety caramel that oozes out with each bite. The sprinkle of sea salt adds an unexpected depth, enhancing the sweetness and creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. The texture is a perfect blend of chewy and soft, with a slight crispness around the edges, making every cookie a satisfyingly indulgent treat.
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Key ingredients in the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe include butter, brown sugar, and sea salt:
- Butter: Provides a rich flavor and is a source of healthy fats when used in moderation.
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of molasses flavor, making the cookies chewy and delicious.
- Sea Salt: Not only enhances flavor but also contains trace minerals that are beneficial for your body.
With these simple yet wholesome ingredients, the Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe promises to be a treat that you can enjoy while still feeling good about what you’re eating.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted butter – For a rich, creamy flavor and tender texture.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – To balance the richness and enhance sweetness.
- 2 large eggs – Provides structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – For a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the caramel.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – The base for the cookies; all-purpose flour gives the right texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve a soft interior.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness of the caramel.
- 1 cup salted caramel sauce – The star ingredient that provides a sweet and salty burst.
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional) – For added richness and flavor contrast.
- Coarse sea salt – To sprinkle on top for that perfect salted finish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer – To cream the butter and sugars smoothly.
- Baking sheets – For placing the cookie dough.
- Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning the dough evenly.
- Cooling rack – To let the cookies cool properly after baking.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Dairy-free butter – For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter.
- Maple syrup – Replace brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique flavor.
- Nut variations – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Spice variations – Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced twist.
How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of brown sugar and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and airy.
Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth, ensuring no visible streaks of egg remain.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; the dough should be slightly crumbly but hold together when pressed.
Step 5: Fold in Salted Caramel Sauce
Gently fold in 1 cup of salted caramel sauce using a spatula. If you’re adding chocolate chips, now is the time to fold them in as well.
Step 6: Portion the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving ample space between them for spreading.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Step 8: Add Coarse Sea Salt
Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of each cookie to enhance the salted caramel flavor. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
What to Serve With
These salted caramel cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee. They also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Tips for Success
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for the best mixing and texture.
- Don’t over-bake; cookies will continue to firm up while cooling.
- Experiment with different brands of caramel sauce for varying sweetness levels.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you live in a warm climate to help maintain the shape while baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-mixing the dough can lead to tough cookies; mix just until combined.
- Skipping the sea salt topping can diminish the intended sweet-salty balance.
- Baking on a hot baking sheet can cause spreading; always use a cool one.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store the salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months.
Reheating
To enjoy your cookies warm, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. If frozen, thaw them at room temperature first before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
- Can I use homemade caramel sauce? Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when added to the cookie dough.
- What type of chocolate chips work best? Semi-sweet chocolate chips complement the salted caramel flavor beautifully, but feel free to use dark or milk chocolate if you prefer.
Nutritional Info
Each salted caramel cookie contains approximately 150 calories, with 7g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, and 1g of protein. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty, then this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is an absolute must-try! The chewy texture of the cookies combined with the rich, gooey salted caramel creates a delightful experience that will leave you craving more. I love how easy it is to whip up a batch, making it perfect for sharing with friends and family or just enjoying as a well-deserved indulgence. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe
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.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup caramel chips
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ tsp flaky sea salt
Instructions
-
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. -
Step 2
Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. -
Step 3
Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. -
Step 4
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla. -
Step 5
Gradually mix in dry ingredients until just combined. -
Step 6
Fold in caramel chips and chocolate chips. -
Step 7
Scoop dough onto baking sheets, spacing 2 inches apart. -
Step 8
Sprinkle with flaky sea salt before baking. -
Step 9
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. -
Step 10
Let cool for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.
