There’s a certain joy that comes when you pull a tray of freshly baked cookies from the oven, the warm aroma wrapping around you like a cozy hug. These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are not just ordinary treats—they’re a delightful fusion of gooey caramel hidden beneath a layer of soft, chocolatey perfection. I still remember the first time I experimented with caramel in my cookie dough, and the delicious chaos that ensued when they popped out of the oven.
Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or simply a craving for something sweet, these cookies are the answer to any dessert dilemma. They stand out not only for their irresistible flavor but also for their simple preparation—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs. Imagine biting into one, the warm chocolate chips melting as the salted caramel oozes out, creating a moment of pure bliss. Ready to take your cookie game to the next level? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to snag one!
Why will you adore Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Indulgent Flavors: The sweet, caramel surprise paired with melted chocolate chips brings an unforgettable taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
Easy Preparation: Just a few steps, and you’re on your way to cookie heaven—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings!
Versatile Treat: Great for any occasion, be it a casual afternoon snack or a fancy dessert platter. Serve with coffee or milk for the ultimate pairing!
Gourmet Touch: A sprinkle of sea salt on top elevates the flavor profile, making these cookies a standout treat worthy of gourmet status.
Crowd-Pleaser: Watch faces light up as you share these delightful cookies with family and friends—they’re guaranteed to impress!
Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients
• Gather your ingredients to bake a delightful batch of Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies that will surely impress!
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – 2 1/2 cups – essential for the perfect cookie structure.
- Cornstarch – 2 teaspoons – adds tenderness to the cookies.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon – enhances the flavors and balances sweetness.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon – provides leavening for a soft texture.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon – helps achieve that perfect rise.
- Unsalted butter – 3/4 cup – for rich, creamy flavor; make sure it’s softened.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup – contributes to the chewiness of the cookies.
- Brown sugar – 1 ½ cups – keeps the cookies moist with a hint of caramel flavor.
- Large egg – 1 – binds the ingredients together for a unified dough.
- Large egg yolks – 2 – adds richness and a softer texture.
- Pure vanilla extract – 1 tablespoon – infuses a warm, sweet note.
- Semi-sweet chocolate chips – 2 cups – for that perfect melty chocolate goodness.
For the Caramel Center
- Individual wrapped soft caramels – choose your favorite brand for that gooey surprise inside.
For Garnish
- Sea salt – a sprinkle on top elevates the flavor and adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
How to Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly baked cookie, so set the temperature before you begin mixing.
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Whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl. This mixture creates the foundation for your cookies, ensuring a lovely rise and texture.
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Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in your mixer for 3-4 minutes on high. You want the mixture to become light and fluffy—this airiness helps create soft cookies!
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Add the large egg and egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, incorporate the pure vanilla extract, blending everything until smooth and delightful.
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Mix in the dry ingredients. Lower your mixer speed and gradually add the flour mixture in three intervals, beating until just combined. Then, fold in the chocolate chips for that melty goodness.
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Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This chilling process helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to scoop and ensuring a perfect bake.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough. Place an unwrapped caramel in the center of one dough ball, then cover it with another ball of dough and roll it into a larger ball. Space these out on a parchment-lined cookie sheet, 1 1/2 inches apart.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 11-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them—remove when they are golden and still soft in the center for that chewy texture, or bake longer for crisper cookies.
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Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing from the oven to amplify the flavors. Let them cool slightly before serving to enjoy their warm, gooey goodness!
Optional: Serve warm with a glass of milk for the ultimate treat experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful variations and make this recipe your own—your taste buds will thank you!
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Nutty Delight: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch and enhanced flavor—perfect for nut lovers!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm twist that surprises your palate.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and dairy-free chocolate chips for a scrumptious vegan option that everyone will enjoy.
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Heavenly Coconut: Stir in 1 cup of shredded coconut for an enticing tropical flair that pairs beautifully with the caramel and chocolate.
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Double Chocolate: Replace 1/2 cup of flour with cocoa powder for a richer, chocolate-infused cookie experience that any chocolate fan will adore.
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Stuffed Surprise: Try filling the cookies with your favorite chocolate truffle instead of caramel for an indulgent treat that oozes decadence.
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Fruity Twist: Add 1/2 cup of dried cherries or cranberries for a sweet and tart contrast that brightens each bite.
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Mini Bites: Make smaller cookie bites by using a teaspoon to scoop out dough, resulting in delightful little morsels perfect for snacking or sharing.
These variations encourage creativity in the kitchen, ensuring each batch is uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Serve these delightful cookies alongside companions that beautifully balance their rich, gooey flavors.
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Fresh Berries: Their natural tartness cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of warm cookies with cold ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience that is impossible to resist.
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Espresso or Coffee: A bold, rich brew complements the cookies perfectly and balances the sweetness, making for a cozy afternoon treat.
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Milk: A glass of cold milk is a nostalgic classic, enhancing the flavors and giving you that satisfying dunking experience.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this delightful addition adds a touch of elegance and richness, making your cookies feel gourmet.
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Chocolate Ganache Dip: Go for a decadent twist by serving a side of warm chocolate ganache for dipping. It’s a treat no one can refuse!
Imagine hosting a gathering and offering a selection of these accompaniments—a spread that elevates your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies into a dessert masterpiece.
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Letting the cookie dough chill for at least an hour helps prevent spreading, ensuring beautifully puffy cookies.
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Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough for uniform baking. This guarantees all cookies bake evenly, resulting in perfect soft centers.
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Monitor Baking Time: Check on your cookies a minute or two before recommended time. Removing them while still soft ensures a chewy texture for your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies.
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Quality Ingredients: Use good-quality chocolate chips and caramels for the best flavor. They make all the difference in elevating your cookie experience!
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Sprinkle Timing: Sprinkle sea salt right after baking while the cookies are warm so it sticks beautifully, enhancing that sweet and salty flavor combo.
Make Ahead Options
These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe until after mixing in the chocolate chips, then chill the dough in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to scoop later. The unbaked dough balls can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just roll them into balls, flash freeze on a baking sheet, and transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for delicious, warm cookies whenever you desire!
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, place the cookies in the fridge in a sealed container. They will last up to a week but may lose some softness.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie, heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or use the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes before serving your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for this recipe, as it provides the right structure and texture. Avoid using cake flour or whole wheat flour, as they can alter the chewiness and density of the cookies.
How should I store my Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal softness. If you want to keep them for a longer period, transfer them to the fridge, where they can last up to a week, although they might lose a bit of their chewy texture.
Can I freeze Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cooled cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them into a freezer-safe bag or container. You can enjoy them up to 3 months later. When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat them by placing them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
What’s the best way to handle cookie dough that spreads too much?
If you notice your dough spreading too much during baking, try chilling it for a longer period—around 2 hours can make a big difference. Additionally, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted, as melted butter can lead to more spreading. Lastly, making uniform sizes with a cookie scoop can help in achieving consistent results.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you have dietary restrictions, you can swap the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. For gluten-free options, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but make sure it includes xanthan gum for proper texture. As for allergies, be cautious with the chocolate chips and caramels, as they may contain common allergens like soy or nuts.
How can I ensure my cookies have that perfect chewy texture?
Great question! To achieve a chewy texture, make sure not to overbake your cookies—take them out of the oven when they’re slightly underbaked in the center. Chilling the dough also helps maintain thickness and prevents them from spreading too much. Lastly, using a mix of both brown and granulated sugars contributes to that luscious chewiness we all adore!
Salty-Sweet Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, baking powder, and baking soda in a medium bowl.
- Cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in your mixer for 3-4 minutes on high.
- Add the large egg and egg yolks one at a time, beating well after each addition, then incorporate pure vanilla extract.
- Mix in the dry ingredients, gradually adding the flour mixture and folding in the chocolate chips.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough, place an unwrapped caramel in the center, and roll into a larger ball.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 11-14 minutes.
- Sprinkle with sea salt immediately after removing from the oven.