Name: Deliciously Chewy Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure; no substitutions recommended for stability.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Helps cookies rise; use the same for best results.); 1/2 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness; can use sea salt for enhanced flavor.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Softened and at room temperature for easy mixing.); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (Adds crisp texture; can replace with coconut sugar.); 3/4 cup brown sugar (Adds moisture and caramel flavor; light or dark can be substituted.); 2 large eggs (Room temperature; acts as a binder.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Enhances overall flavor; homemade can be used.); 1 cup caramel chips (Provides gooey caramel pockets; Kraft works well.); 1/2 cup chocolate chips (Optional; consider dark chocolate chips for bolder flavor.); 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt (For sweet-salty contrast; Maldon is ideal.)

As I pulled the first batch of cookies from the oven, the aroma of sweet, buttery caramel swirled through my kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace. These Salted Caramel Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a little taste of happiness and comfort, effortlessly blending crisp edges with a soft, chewy center full of gooey caramel pockets. What I love most about this recipe is not just its indulgent flavor, but how simple it is to prepare—perfect for a quick treat or an impressive addition to any gathering. Ready to enjoy both delectable bites and a sprinkle of sea salt? Let’s dive into these cookies that promise to satisfy both your sweet cravings and your patience in the kitchen! What mix-ins will you choose to create your own magical twist?

What’s Special About These Cookies?

Irresistible sweetness: These Salted Caramel Cookies combine a rich, buttery flavor with generous pockets of gooey caramel, making each bite a delightful experience.

Effortless preparation: You don’t need to be a baking expert to whip these up—just follow the simple steps and enjoy bakery-quality cookies at home!

Customizable options: Feeling adventurous? Add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized touch, and explore variations that thrill your taste buds.

Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or an evening snack, these cookies are bound to be a hit, leaving everyone craving more.

Ideal pairing: Enjoy them alongside a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even warm vanilla ice cream for that ultimate treat experience!

For more sweet inspirations, check out these Salted Caramel Apple bars or the Monster Cookie Fudgy Brownies that you won’t want to miss!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

• Let’s gather what we need for those delightful cookies!

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; no substitutions recommended for stability.
Baking soda – Helps cookies rise; use the same for best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness in the cookies; can substitute with sea salt for enhanced flavor.
Unsalted butter – Softened, adds richness and flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Granulated sugar – Adds crisp texture; can replace with coconut sugar for a subtle change.
Brown sugar – Adds moisture and caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar can be substituted; dark will deepen flavor.
Eggs – Room temperature, acts as a binder and adds moisture; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; homemade vanilla extract can be used for a richer taste.
Caramel chips – Provides gooey caramel pockets; Kraft caramel bits work well for this function.
Chocolate chips – Optional, adds richness; consider dark chocolate chips for a bolder flavor profile.
Flaky sea salt – For sweet-salty contrast; Maldon sea salt is ideal for a crunchy finish.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This step ensures that your Salted Caramel Cookies won’t stick, allowing for easy removal once they’re baked golden brown.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This dry mixture will provide the structure necessary for your cookies. Set this bowl aside, letting the enticing aroma of flour and salt fill the air, as we move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. The sugars should dissolve into the butter, creating a smooth, creamy texture that smells heavenly—this base is crucial for those rich and indulgent Salted Caramel Cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in the room temperature eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow this by adding the vanilla extract. This combination should result in a silky batter that’s sweet and fragrant—your Salted Caramel Cookies are coming to life!

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients from the first step until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can affect the texture of your cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky but cohesive—ideal for folding in those gooey caramel pockets.

Step 6: Fold in Caramel and Optional Chips
Gently fold in the caramel chips and optional chocolate chips using a spatula. This is where your Salted Caramel Cookies transform into a decadent treat. Make sure the caramel is evenly distributed throughout the dough for those irresistible pockets of sweet goodness in each bite.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball of dough. This spacing ensures that your cookies have room to spread and form their ideal shape while baking to a delightful golden finish.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Before baking, sprinkle the tops of the unbaked cookies with flaky sea salt. This step is crucial for balancing the sweetness of the caramel; those little crystals will add a tantalizing flavor punch to each Salted Caramel Cookie.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown while the center remains soft. Keep an eye on them—once they’re fragrant and slightly set at the edges, they’re ready to come out.

Step 10: Cool and Transfer
Allow the baked cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, letting them firm up. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step is essential for achieving that perfect chewy texture laden with delicious caramel pockets.

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Butter Preparation: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing. This guarantees a light and fluffy texture in your Salted Caramel Cookies.
Mixing Technique: Avoid over-mixing the dough after incorporating the dry ingredients, which can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until combined for the perfect chewy texture.
Baking Time Awareness: Check the cookies at the lower end of the baking time. They should be golden at the edges and slightly soft in the center for that ideal chewy finish.
Using Sea Salt: Don’t skip the flaky sea salt on top! This step enhances the flavor, balancing the sweetness of the caramel beautifully, turning ordinary cookies into gourmet treats.
Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack to allow steam to escape. This step is crucial for achieving that deliciously chewy consistency throughout.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can refrigerate the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance, making this an ideal option for busy weeknights. Simply scoop the dough onto your baking sheets, cover with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. If you’re planning to indulge later, consider freezing the unbaked cookie dough for up to 3 months. To bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. For optimal flavor and texture, sprinkle the cookies with flaky sea salt right before they go into the oven, ensuring they emerge just as delightful as if baked fresh. Enjoy the convenience of having fresh-baked cookies ready at a moment’s notice!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep baked Salted Caramel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewiness and flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, but note that this may alter their texture slightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Salted Caramel Cookies, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies! The world of flavor is yours to explore.

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or toasted pecans for a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with caramel.
Toffee Twist: Substitute caramel chips with toffee bits to bring a sweet, buttery depth that will make each bite a little more decadent.
Chocoholic Dream: Mix in a blend of milk and dark chocolate chips for a harmonious balance of sweetness and richness that will satisfy any chocolate lover.
Caramel Stuffed: Create a stuffed cookie by placing a caramel square in the center of each dough ball before baking. This twist intensifies the gooey caramel experience.
Sea Salt Variation: For an elevated twist, sprinkle the cookies with flavored sea salts, like smoked or garlic salt, for an unexpected flavor contrast.
Coconut Kick: Fold in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds a delightful chewy texture and a hint of sweetness to your cookies.
Spicy Kick: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for a warm spice that complements the sweetness and adds an exciting twist to these cookies.
Stout Infusion: For a richer flavor, replace a portion of the vanilla extract with a splash of dark beer or stout. It adds depth with a hint of caramel maltiness.

If you’re seeking more delicious ideas, consider trying the Brown Butter Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies for a seasonal touch, or indulge in Chocolate Oat Cookies to satisfy those chocolate cravings!

What to Serve with Irresistible Salted Caramel Cookies

Indulging in these cookies is just the beginning; there’s a whole world of delightful pairings to enhance your treat experience!

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a luscious creaminess, balancing the sweetness and bringing a cooling contrast to the warm cookies.
Rich Hot Chocolate: The chocolatey essence pairs beautifully, creating a decadent delight that warms the soul during chilly evenings.
Fresh Berries: Tart fruits like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing burst, cutting through the richness of the cookies and brightening every bite.
Espresso or Coffee: A cup of espresso perfectly complements the flavors, enhancing the sweetness while providing a delightful caffeine kick.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Drizzling extra caramel sauce on top intensifies the sweet experience, transforming each bite into a luxurious indulgence.
Salted Caramel Latte: This drink mirrors the flavors of the cookies, providing a perfect cozy beverage to sip while enjoying your treat.
Cashew or Almond Milk: For a lighter option, nut milk adds a subtle richness, complementing the cookies without overpowering their flavor.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Salty and sweet, these crunchy snacks elevate the cookie experience, offering a delightful texture contrast with each bite.

Let your imagination guide you—these Salted Caramel Cookies are sure to shine when paired with your favorite goodies!

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of caramel chips should I use for the cookies?
I recommend using Kraft caramel bits as they melt beautifully and provide those luscious pockets of gooey caramel in your Salted Caramel Cookies. If you want to experiment, you could also try other brands or even homemade caramel for a richer flavor!

How should I store my Salted Caramel Cookies to keep them fresh?
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to keep them even fresher, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just keep in mind that refrigeration might slightly alter their texture, making them a tad firmer.

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookie dough for later, scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer! When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out, let it thaw for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if they’re still a bit chilly.

What if my cookies are too flat when baked?
If your cookies flatten out too much, it might be due to softened butter being too warm. Make sure the butter is at room temperature but not melted when you cream it with the sugars. Additionally, check that you’re using the right amounts of flour and baking soda; too little flour or too much soda can also affect their shape.

What’s the best way to incorporate mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
When adding mix-ins to your Salted Caramel Cookies, fold them in gently after mixing the dry and wet ingredients. Start with about 1 cup of your chosen mix-ins—whether that’s chocolate chips, nuts, or even toffee bits—and make sure they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough to ensure every bite is delicious.

Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Yes! If you’re looking for a vegan option, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and letting it sit until it thickens. Additionally, ensure your caramel chips or any other ingredients don’t contain any dairy if you’re looking to keep them completely plant-based.