Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

If you’re craving a cookie that perfectly balances sweet and salty with a chewy, buttery texture, look no further than this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe. Imagine biting into a golden cookie packed with pockets of gooey caramel that melt in your mouth, kissed by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that heightens each delightful flavor note. These cookies strike an ideal harmony between rich caramel sweetness and the crisp edges only a perfectly baked treat can offer. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe will become a firm favorite in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the magical texture and unforgettable taste of the salted caramel cookie. From the all-purpose flour that builds the base to the caramel chips that promise luscious pockets of sweetness, every item is essential to crafting this easy yet impressive dessert.

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cookies to hold their shape and chewiness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps your cookies rise and develop that light texture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness perfectly and enhances the flavor depth.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a tender crumb to your cookies.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Creates a crisp exterior that contrasts with the chewy center.
• ¾ cup brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind everything together and add moisture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates overall flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
• 1 cup caramel chips: The heart of this cookie that delivers soft caramel surprises.
• ½ cup chocolate chips (optional): Adds extra richness and depth for chocolate lovers.
• ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt: Sprinkled on top just before baking to create that irresistible sweet and salty contrast.

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up a breeze. This small step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the tray effortlessly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Taking a moment to combine these thoroughly helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning through your cookie dough, guaranteeing consistent flavor and texture throughout.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough that results in a tender, slightly crunchy edge on your cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These steps enhance moisture and add a rich, deep aroma that makes the cookies incredibly inviting.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Be careful not to overmix as this will develop too much gluten, resulting in tougher cookies rather than soft, chewy ones.

Step 6: Fold in Caramel and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the caramel chips and optional chocolate chips. This step is the true game changer, adding bursts of molten caramel and melty chocolate that define the cookie’s character.

Step 7: Scoop and Sprinkle

Drop scoops of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Before sliding them into the oven, sprinkle the tops lightly with flaky sea salt. This final touch creates small salty contrasts that enhance the sweetness in every bite.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period keeps the caramel soft and prevents the cookies from breaking.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a pinch of extra flaky sea salt or drizzle warm caramel sauce on top of the cooled cookies. These simple garnishes not only elevate presentation but also intensify the sweet-salty flavor profile that makes these cookies irresistible.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream or a frothy cup of coffee. The warmth of the drink complements the caramel notes, while the cold ice cream contrasts the cookie’s chewy texture for a delightful treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these cookies stacked high on a pretty platter tied with a rustic twine bow for a gift or party favor. You can also sandwich two cookies with a layer of caramel or chocolate ganache in between to create delectable salted caramel cookie sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This storage method retains their perfect balance of crisp edges and soft, gooey centers.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking by placing them on a tray, freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, bake directly from frozen adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to enjoy fresh-baked goodness anytime.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This revives their soft texture and melts the caramel centers just enough to feel freshly baked again.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

While salted butter can work, it’s best to stick with unsalted to control the overall saltiness, especially since flaky sea salt is sprinkled on top for that perfect sweet-salty balance.

What if I don’t have caramel chips?

If caramel chips are hard to find, you can chop soft caramel candies into small pieces, but be aware they may melt differently during baking. Alternatively, bitesize caramel candies can be pressed into the dough.

How do I avoid the caramel chips melting completely?

Using caramel chips specifically designed for baking helps them hold their shape somewhat. Also, be sure to fold them gently and don’t overmix the dough to avoid them melting completely.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make a vegan version, use vegan butter, flax eggs as an egg substitute, and look for dairy-free caramel chips. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly but should still be delicious.

Why do I need to sprinkle flaky sea salt on top?

The flaky sea salt creates tiny bursts of saltiness that contrast the cookie’s sweetness, elevating the caramel flavor and adding a sophisticated finish that makes this Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe truly unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe is a total showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The marriage of rich caramel pockets, buttery dough, and that perfect salty sprinkle is enough to make anyone fall madly in love. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and bake a batch today—you’re going to want to share these, but don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking one (or five) straight from the kitchen.

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