Name: Irresistible Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe for Sweet Cravings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Ensure freshness.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt is recommended.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Must be softened.); 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar (Coconut sugar is an alternative.); 0.75 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark can be used.); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature preferred.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure extract.); 1 cup Caramel Chips (Kraft caramel bits preferred.); 0.5 cup Chocolate Chips (Optional; can use butterscotch chips.); 1 teaspoon Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon salt is a good choice.)

The tantalizing aroma of freshly baked cookies is like a warm hug for the soul, especially when those cookies are these bakery-style salted caramel cookies! Each bite delivers a delightful explosion of gooey caramel encased in a chewy, buttery cookie, perfected with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. What sets this recipe apart is not just its incredible flavor but the fact that it’s unbelievably easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for everything from cozy family nights to festive gatherings. With the option to customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts, these cookies truly cater to everyone’s sweet tooth. Are you ready to create a treat that will make your kitchen the heart of the home?

Why Are Salted Caramel Cookies Irresistible?

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful combination of rich caramel and a hint of sea salt creates a taste sensation like no other. Chewy Texture: Enjoy the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, gooey center that keeps you coming back for more. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick steps, even novice bakers can impress with this recipe. Customizable Options: Feel free to personalize with chocolate chips, nuts, or drizzles, making them unique each time. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying solo, these cookies are sure to delight everyone! And if you love cookies as much as I do, check out my Banana Oatmeal Cookies for another delicious treat!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

Get ready to bake up something delightful with these essential salted caramel cookie ingredients!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; feel free to swap with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise; just make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
Salt – Balances sweetness; use kosher salt if you don’t have flaky salt on hand.
Unsalted Butter – Rich flavor is key; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing—no margarine here!
Granulated Sugar – Adds a crisp texture; coconut sugar makes a lovely alternative for a deeper taste.
Brown Sugar – Delivers moisture and caramel flavor; light or dark can be used interchangeably.
Eggs – Give moisture and a sturdy structure; keep them at room temperature for even blending.
Vanilla Extract – Key to enhancing overall flavor; opt for pure extract for the best taste.
Caramel Chips – Create those gooey pockets in every bite; Kraft caramel bits are a tasty choice!
Chocolate Chips – Optional but indulgent; swap with butterscotch chips for a twist.
Flaky Sea Salt – Provides that signature bold sweet-salty contrast; Maldon salt works wonders!

These ingredients are the backbone of your salted caramel cookies, uniting to create a masterpiece you won’t soon forget!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick. This preparation sets the stage for baking your delightful salted caramel cookies to perfection.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until they are well combined. This step ensures that your salted caramel cookies have a properly balanced flavor and a consistent texture. Set the mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which takes about 2 to 3 minutes. The creamy consistency will create a delicious base for your salted caramel cookies.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add in 2 large room-temperature eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend until the ingredients are fully incorporated. The creamy mixture should be smooth and slightly fluffy, enhancing the flavor of your salted caramel cookies.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. This step is crucial; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as you see no flour. Your dough for the salted caramel cookies should be thick and cohesive.

Step 6: Fold in the Caramel and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of caramel chips and, if you choose, ½ cup of chocolate chips using a spatula. The caramel chips will create those delicious gooey pockets within your cookies. Make sure the add-ins are evenly distributed throughout the dough for a perfect balance.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, portion out the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Each scoop should be heaping to ensure you get thick salted caramel cookies. This spacing allows for adequate spreading during baking.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Before baking, generously sprinkle the tops of the cookie dough with flaky sea salt. This delicious touch not only enhances the flavor but also gives your salted caramel cookies that signature sweet-salty contrast that makes them irresistible.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are slightly soft. Keep a close eye on your cookies; they should look set but still gooey in the middle to achieve that chewy texture we love.

Step 10: Cool and Transfer
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This step allows them to firm up slightly. Then, using a spatula, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Your kitchen will be filled with a heavenly aroma while you wait to enjoy your delicious salted caramel cookies!

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations

Explore these fun and scrumptious ways to customize your beloved salted caramel cookies, letting your creativity shine!

Nutty Addition: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunchy contrast. The nuttiness complements the sweet caramel perfectly!
Chocolate Indulgence: Swap out caramel chips for chocolate chips for a rich double chocolate delight. This variation transforms your cookie experience into something indulgent!
Flavored Extracts: Experiment with different flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut for a unique twist. A hint of almond enhances those sweet notes beautifully!
Caramel Drizzle: Finish your cookies with a warm drizzle of melted caramel or chocolate. It’s an elegant touch that makes these cookies feel extra special.
Dried Fruits: Fold in chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy, fruity surprise in each bite. This variation introduces a tart element to balance the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a spicy twist. The heat mingles beautifully with the sweetness of the caramel, making for a playful flavor explosion.
Sandwich Cookies: Turn these cookies into delightful sandwiches by adding a creamy filling like vanilla buttercream or cream cheese frosting in between two cookies. They become a perfect treat for parties!
Savory Touch: Incorporate a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top before baking for an extra burst of flavor. A bit more salt gives an addictive intensity that enhances every bite!

Each of these variations offers something unique, making your baking experience as joyful as the cookies themselves! If you’re looking for more delightful treats, don’t forget to check out my delicious Biscoff Cookie Cheesecake or try making some flavorful Cookies Cream Ice.

What to Serve with Bakery-Style Salted Caramel Cookies?

Indulging in warm, gooey salted caramel cookies can transform any gathering into a sweet celebration, but the magic doesn’t have to stop there!

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy texture perfectly balances the rich sweetness of the cookies, creating an irresistible combination.
Fresh Berries: A refreshing burst of tartness from strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness, adding a delightful contrast to your indulgent treat.
Chocolate Milkshake: This decadent drink perfectly complements the cookie’s flavors, combining nostalgia and indulgence in each sip while elevating your dessert experience.
Coffee or Espresso: The comforting bitterness of a warm cup enhances the cookies’ sweetness, making it the ideal pairing for a cozy afternoon treat.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Add a touch of extra indulgence by drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the cookies, enhancing their richness with an extra layer of flavor.
Nutty Brownies: If you’re feeling adventurous, serving brownies alongside the cookies creates a delightful dessert platter that caters to chocolate lovers and caramel enthusiasts alike!

Let your taste buds dance with these delightful accompaniments that are sure to elevate your homemade cookie experience!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of your salted caramel cookies significantly. Fresh ingredients make all the difference!
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before adding them to the batter. This helps create a smooth mixture, contributing to a better texture in your cookies.
Don’t Over-Mix: Mix the dough until just combined when adding the dry ingredients. Over-mixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired chewy texture.
Chill the Dough: Consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This can help the cookies maintain their shape and induce a chewier texture.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies towards the end of the baking time. They should be golden at the edges but soft in the center for that gooey salted caramel surprise.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins, but be mindful of the total volume to avoid altering the well-loved salted caramel cookie consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing taste! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing everything together and chilling it in the refrigerator. If you want to have even longer-lasting prep, form the cookie dough balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; when you’re ready to bake, just bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfectly chewy cookies. This way, you’ll enjoy homemade cookies anytime with minimal effort—just bake and savor the gooey, delicious pockets of caramel!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your freshly baked salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.

Fridge: For slightly longer storage, place the cookies in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. The cold may change the texture slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!

Freezer: Freeze your cookies for up to 2 months in a single layer between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container. This preserves their gooiness and flavor; thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, pop your cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. This brings back that lovely gooey caramel goodness!

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of caramel chips should I use for salted caramel cookies?
I recommend using Kraft caramel bits, as they melt beautifully and create those irresistible gooey pockets in your cookies. If you can’t find them, you can chop up soft caramel candies as a substitute.

How do I know when my salted caramel cookies are done baking?
The edges should look set and slightly golden brown while the center remains soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit underbaked—it’s that gooey texture you want!

How should I store my salted caramel cookies?
Place your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks. Just remember that the texture may change slightly when refrigerated.

Can I freeze salted caramel cookies? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange your cookies in a single layer between sheets of wax paper in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

Are salted caramel cookies safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these cookies away from pets, especially dogs. Ingredients like chocolate and high sugar levels can be harmful to them. It’s always wise to treat our furry friends with dedicated pet-friendly treats instead!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to using melted butter instead of softened butter or not chilling the dough beforehand. To prevent this next time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheets, and be sure to use softened, not melted, butter for the best results.