Salted caramel cookies are the perfect blend of sweet and salty, offering a delightful treat that will satisfy your cravings. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie filled with gooey caramel bits and a sprinkle of sea salt on top — it’s pure bliss! These cookies are easy to make, and they’re perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering, treating yourself, or looking for a delicious gift. Let’s dive into the details so you can whip up a batch of salted caramel cookies today!
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-27 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 178
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
Why Make This Salted Caramel Cookies
Salted caramel cookies are a wonderful twist on traditional cookies, combining crispy edges with a soft center. The rich, buttery flavor of the cookies is perfectly balanced by the sweet caramel bits and a touch of sea salt, which enhances their deliciousness. They’re incredibly easy to prepare, making them an ideal choice for bakers of all skill levels. Plus, your kitchen will smell heavenly as they bake!
How to Make Salted Caramel Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel, chopped
- 1 cup sea salt, for sprinkling
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a light texture. Next, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly combined.
Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend this dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the dough. Finally, fold in the caramel bits gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Scooping & Baking
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them a couple of inches apart to allow for spreading. Before baking, sprinkle each cookie dough mound with a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly browned around the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookies
Serve your salted caramel cookies warm, fresh out of the oven, or allow them to cool and serve with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. They’re perfect for dessert, as an afternoon snack, or even as a sweet gift to share with friends and family.
How to Store Salted Caramel Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe container between layers of parchment paper and seal tightly. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Expert Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for better mixing.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you’re in a hot climate; this helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Experiment with different types of caramels, such as sea salt caramels, for added dimension.
- If you prefer a chewier cookie, slightly underbake them, keeping an eye on the edges for light browning.
Delicious Variations
Here are a few fun twists to the classic salted caramel cookie:
- Chocolate Chip Addition: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips along with the caramel bits for a chocolatey treat.
- Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) for a delightful crunch and added flavor.
- Spiced Salted Caramel Cookies: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or espresso powder for a flavorful twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What type of caramel should I use?
You can use caramel bits for convenience, or chop up soft caramel candies. Both options work well! -
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. -
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should be lightly browned around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. -
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough in scooped mounds and then bake them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. -
How can I make the caramel more gooey?
Use a mix of soft caramel candies and chunkier caramel pieces for added texture, and slightly underbake your cookies.
Conclusion
These salted caramel cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience! With their gooey centers and a touch of saltiness, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t hesitate to make a batch (or two) — they will disappear quickly! Share this delightful recipe with friends and family, and watch as they fall in love with these delicious cookies. Happy baking!
