Homemade salted caramel cookies fresh from the oven on a cooling rack

Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Salted Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend sweet and salty flavors. They are chewy, gooey, and packed with delicious caramel, making them a favorite for cookie lovers. Whether for a special occasion or just a night in, these cookies are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet tooth.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookies

Ingredients:

  • 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)
  • 1 cup caramel chips (For gooey caramel pockets)
  • ½ cup chocolate chips (Optional for richness)
  • ½ tsp flaky sea salt (For sweet-salty contrast)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
  6. Fold in the caramel chips and, if desired, the chocolate chips.
  7. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing the mounds about 2 inches apart.
  8. Sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top of the cookie dough before baking.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
  10. Allow the cookies to cool for 5 minutes on the baking sheets, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookies

Serve these warm cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a perfect snack. They can also be served at parties, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress guests. You can enjoy them as they are or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

How to Store Salted Caramel Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay good for about a week. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the dough before baking or freeze the baked cookies. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Cookies

  • Use room temperature eggs and butter to achieve the best mixing results.
  • Be careful not to overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.
  • If you like them more salted, feel free to add extra flaky sea salt on top after baking.
  • For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies and let them set on the baking sheet.

Variation

To add a little twist, try incorporating chopped nuts or different types of chocolate chips. You could also replace caramel chips with toffee bits for an extra crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe.

2. How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.