Salted Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweet and salty flavors. These cookies blend the rich, buttery taste of caramel with a hint of sea salt, making them irresistible. With a chewy texture and an enticing aroma, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether for a special occasion or simply to indulge your sweet tooth, making Salted Caramel Cookies will bring joy to any gathering.
Why We Love This Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe
There’s something truly magical about Salted Caramel Cookies. They combine the best of both worlds: the comforting essence of classic cookies with the exciting flavor of salted caramel. You will find joy in the way the soft, chewy cookie envelops delightful little pockets of gooey caramel. After baking, a sprinkle of sea salt elevates these cookies to a whole new level, balancing their sweetness with a savory touch. Fans of both cookies and caramel will appreciate how these cookies can be enjoyed any time of year, from cozy winter evenings to summer picnics. Furthermore, they’re straightforward to make, meaning you can whip up a fresh batch any time the craving strikes.
Ingredients about Salted Caramel Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies
- Sea salt for sprinkling
How to Make Salted Caramel Cookies Directions
To get started with these extraordinary cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfect baking environment. In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a whisk or electric mixer. You want to achieve a smooth and fluffy texture. Once you’ve done that, add in your large egg and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined.
In a separate bowl, take two cups of all-purpose flour and whisk in half a teaspoon of baking soda along with half a teaspoon of salt. This blend of dry ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect cookie structure. Gradually add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could lead to tough cookies. Now it’s time to add the chewy caramel bits; fold them into the dough so they’re evenly distributed throughout.
With your dough ready, scoop generous portions onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure there’s enough space between each scoop to allow for spreading. Once your oven is heated, bake these beauties for about 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn a lovely golden brown color. As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle a light touch of sea salt on top to enhance that delightful sweet-and-salty experience. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, and then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookies
Serving these Salted Caramel Cookies is as enjoyable as making them. You can easily present them on a beautiful plate, perhaps alongside a lovely cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. If you’re hosting a gathering or a family get-together, consider placing them in a decorative cookie jar on your kitchen counter. This will not only keep them fresh but also allow your guests to help themselves.
You can also elevate your serving game by making ice cream sandwiches. Just take two cookies and place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between them. The combination of the warm cookie and cold ice cream is sure to impress! For special occasions, feel free to drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies, giving them an extra touch of elegance.
Expert Tips: Salted Caramel Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Salted Caramel Cookies, consider these expert tips. First, measuring your ingredients carefully is crucial. Using room-temperature butter will lead to a better texture, so if you’ve just taken it out of the refrigerator, give it a little time to soften.
When it comes to the caramel bits, if you can’t find them, soft caramel candies work just as well. Simply cut them into small pieces before folding them into your dough. Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so the first batch will help you gauge the ideal baking time for your oven.
Lastly, for an even richer flavor, you might briefly chill the dough before baking, which can enhance the overall taste and texture of your cookies. If you prefer a bit more crunch, bake the cookies a minute longer, but be cautious not to over-bake them.
How to Store Salted Caramel Cookies
Properly storing your Salted Caramel Cookies will help maintain their delicious taste and texture. Once the cookies are completely cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for about a week, but for longer freshness, consider refrigerating them. If you wish to prolong their lifespan, storing the cookies in the freezer can be an excellent option. Just separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months this way.
When you want to enjoy one, simply take out a cookie and let it thaw for a few minutes. You can also pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up and restore that ooey-gooey texture.
Variation of Salted Caramel Cookies
The beauty of Salted Caramel Cookies lies in their versatility. If you’re seeking something different, consider adding a few mix-ins. Dark chocolate chips can enhance the flavor profile, giving each bite a richer taste. You could also incorporate nuts such as pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dash of espresso powder in the dough for an unexpected twist? For a more seasonal flavor, consider adding pumpkin spice during fall or a hint of peppermint during the holidays. With each variation, you can create a unique cookie experience that you and your loved ones will enjoy.
FAQ
What are Salted Caramel Cookies?
Salted Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that blends sweet caramel bits with a subtle sprinkle of sea salt, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
How do I make Salted Caramel Cookies?
To make Salted Caramel Cookies, you’ll need to cream together softened butter and sugars, then add an egg and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients, mix, fold in caramel bits, and bake!
Can I use regular caramel candies instead of caramel bits?
Yes! If you can’t find caramel bits, soft caramel candies are a great substitute. Just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces to evenly distribute in the dough.
How long do Salted Caramel Cookies last?
Salted Caramel Cookies can last about a week in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also refrigerate or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I add chocolate chips to my Salted Caramel Cookies?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a delicious variation that complements the caramel and enhances the overall taste. Enjoy experimenting!
Salted Caramel Cookies
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use room temperature for better texture.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Essential for cookie structure.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramel candies If using candies, cut into small pieces.
- to taste Sea salt for sprinkling Enhances sweet and salty experience.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until thoroughly combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the caramel bits until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Baking
- Scoop generous portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring enough space between each scoop.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Sprinkle a light touch of sea salt on top as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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