Name: Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies That Wow Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Consider using a gluten-free blend for a different take.); 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-process cocoa for a milder taste.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Ensure it’s fresh for the best results.); 1/4 teaspoon salt (A pinch balances sweetness effectively.); 1 cup unsalted butter (Substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.); 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens cookies and aids in browning.); 1 cup light brown sugar (Dark brown can be used for a richer taste.); 2 large eggs (Use unsweetened applesauce for egg-free.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Using pure extract is recommended.); 1 cup semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (Dark chocolate for a deeper richness.); 1/2 cup caramel flavored chips (Can be substituted with toffee bits.); to taste sea salt flakes (Opt for coarse variety for best texture.); to taste caramel sauce or dulce de leche (Adds an extra layer of decadence.)

The scent of warm cookies wafting through the house is like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Today, I’m excited to share with you my go-to recipe for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies, which perfectly combine the rich essence of chocolate with the luscious sweetness of caramel and a touch of sea salt. Not only do these cookies come together in no time, but their fudgy center and crispy edges are bound to impress everyone at your table. Plus, they can easily be customized to fit any dietary preference, including an egg-free version! Imagine serving these delightful treats at your next gathering or enjoying them alongside a good book—are you ready to bring this deliciousness into your kitchen?

Why Choose Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies?

Indulgent flavors: The rich combination of chocolate, gooey caramel, and a hint of sea salt delights every taste bud.

Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookies are perfect for anyone who craves homemade treats without the fuss.

Versatile Options: Whether you’re looking for an egg-free recipe or want to switch up the chocolate for white or dark, customization is easy!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for gatherings or as a cozy dessert at home, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends, much like the decadent Salted Caramel Cookie or Chocolate Chip Cookie.

Baking Bliss: The experience of baking and enjoying these cookies will bring warmth and joy to your kitchen, making them a year-round favorite!

Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; consider using a gluten-free blend for a different take.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa will give a milder taste.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent essential for rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Salt – Enhances flavor; a pinch is crucial to balance the sweetness effectively.
• Unsalted Butter – Contributes to softness and flavor; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and aids in browning for a delightful texture.
• Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a lovely caramel hint; dark brown sugar can be used for a richer taste.
• Eggs – Essential for moisture and binding; use unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg) for an egg-free version.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor complexity; using pure extract is recommended for the best taste.
• Semi-Sweet or Milk Chocolate Chips – Provide bursts of chocolate throughout; dark chocolate chips offer a deeper richness.
• Caramel Flavored Chips – Introduces a sweet caramel flavor; can be swapped with toffee bits or omitted for simplicity.

For the Topping
• Sea Salt Flakes – For topping, these add a balanced salty-sweet flavor; opt for a coarse variety for the best texture.

Optional Drizzle
• Caramel Sauce or Dulce de Leche – Drizzling on top adds an extra layer of decadence to your cookies; perfect for indulgence!

Experience the allure of Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies and turn your kitchen into a cozy retreat!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare your cookie dough. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and cleanup. The aroma of warm cookies will soon fill your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere as you dive into baking these delicious Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly mixed for consistent flavor throughout the cookies. This step sets the foundation for a rich chocolate flavor, so take a moment to enjoy the alluring cocoa scent before setting the bowl aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of light brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes at medium speed. This step is crucial for incorporating air, which will make your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies soft and tender at the center.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, incorporate 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl if necessary. The warmth of the mixture will create a beautiful, luscious texture, preparing your dough for the dry ingredients that are coming next.

Step 5: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet ingredients in the stand mixer, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to retain that fudgy texture in your cookies. Lightly fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of caramel-flavored chips using a spatula, creating little pockets of gooey goodness in the dough.

Step 6: Portion the Cookie Dough
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the cookie dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing each ball about 2 inches apart. This ensures they have room to spread out while baking. At this stage, sprinkle a generous pinch of sea salt flakes over each cookie to elevate the sweet and salty flavor combination that defines your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies.

Step 7: Bake and Cool
Carefully place the cookie sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. The edges should appear set and slightly crispy while the centers might look a touch underbaked—that’s perfect! Once done, remove the cookie sheets from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as they firm up.

Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these cookies! Each twist will elevate your baking experience and delight your taste buds.

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a suitable version for gluten-sensitive friends.
Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine for a completely dairy-free treat. This maintains the rich flavor while accommodating dietary needs.
Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and delightful flavor contrast. The nuts can create a wonderfully satisfying texture, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Sugary Swaps: Use brown sugar only for a chewier cookie or opt for coconut sugar to bring a hint of caramel flavor without the refined sugars. Both will keep your cookies moist and delectable.
Flavored Chocolate: For a unique twist, swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate or dark chocolate. This can completely change the flavor profile, giving you options for every craving, like trying these against the rich Mint Chocolate Chip cookies.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle additional warm caramel sauce or dulce de leche on top after baking for an over-the-top indulgence. This extra layer of gooey sweetness will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of espresso powder or ground cinnamon into the dough for a rich, warm spice note. This unexpected depth can transport you to a cozy café with every bite.
Cookie Sandwiches: Make two cookies and sandwich a dollop of ice cream in between for an unforgettable dessert experience. This fun presentation will wow your guests, perfect for a summer celebration!

Explore these variations to discover your favorite version of Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies and be sure to share the love with your friends and family!

Make Ahead Options

These Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all ingredients as directed, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only allows the flavors to develop but also makes scooping easier when you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into individual balls, freeze them in a single layer, and transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and add an extra minute or two to the baking time for freshly baked goodness. This way, you’ll enjoy deliciously fresh cookies with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their delightful texture and flavor.
Fridge: For slightly longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 10 days; however, they may lose some softness, so allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: Freeze your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature when ready to indulge.
Reheating: To revive their warm, fresh-baked taste, microwave cookies for about 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. Enjoy that gooey center again!

What to Serve with Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies?

The perfect pairing elevates the experience of enjoying these delightful cookies and enhances their rich, decadent flavors.

Cold Glass of Milk: A classic combination! The creamy milk complements the chocolate and caramel, cutting through the sweetness beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert. The melting ice cream wraps the cookie in creamy bliss.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a fresh, tangy balance, contrasting with the rich chocolate and caramel notes.
Hot Cocoa: This warm drink, perhaps with a whipped topping, creates a comforting atmosphere, perfect for cozy evenings. The richness aligns wonderfully with the cookies.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit with a few cookie crumbles right on top for an indulgent twist on breakfast or brunch.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Enhance your cookies by serving with a side of warm caramel sauce for dipping or drizzling. It’s a sweet, gooey addition that amplifies flavor.
S’mores Dip: Pair with a warm, gooey s’mores dip for a fun dessert spread. The melted chocolate and marshmallows are a playfully delicious match!
Sweetened Tea or Coffee: Try pairing with a lightly sweetened tea or coffee. Both beverages enhance the chocolate flavors, making them more pronounced with every sip.

Make your dessert table irresistible—these delicious pairings are sure to please everyone!

Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother dough, which enhances the texture of your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies.
Avoid Overmixing: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until no flour is visible. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, robbing them of that fudgy goodness.
Chill the Dough: For even better flavors and to minimize spread, refrigerate your cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step is easy to overlook but makes a big difference!
Watch for Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking; they should have set edges and slightly underbaked centers for the ultimate chewy texture.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add a sprinkle of flavored sea salt or drizzle additional caramel sauce on top after baking to amplify that decadent sweetness!

Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of chocolate is best for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies?
I recommend using semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced sweetness, but feel free to swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, white chocolate chips can also be a delightful alternative!

How can I tell if my cookies are underbaked or overbaked?
Great question! For perfect cookies, the edges should be set and slightly crispy while the centers might look slightly underbaked—this is ideal as they will continue to firm up while cooling. Aim for a baking time of 8-10 minutes at 375°F, and keep an eye on them!

What is the best way to store Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To maintain moisture, you can add a slice of bread to the container. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag; they can last for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you crave a sweet treat!

Can I make these cookies egg-free?
Absolutely! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, which keeps the cookies moist and helps bind the ingredients together. This egg substitute works beautifully and ensures everyone can enjoy these indulgent cookies!

How do I freeze Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies properly?
To freeze, first, bake the cookies and allow them to cool completely. Next, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—about 1-2 hours. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to squeeze out excess air. They can be stored for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven!