Name: Decadent Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe for Ultimate Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter (softened); ½ cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup brown sugar (light or dark); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (preferably pure); 1 cup caramel chips (Kraft caramel bits work well); 1 cup chocolate chips (optional); flaky sea salt (for sprinkling)

You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up bakery-style salted caramel cookies right in your own kitchen. Picture this: warm, gooey cookies with a delightful blend of sweet, buttery caramel and the perfect hint of sea salt. This salted caramel cookie recipe not only promises indulgence but also offers the warm, cozy feel of homemade treats without the fuss. With a chewy center and crisp edges, they’re an absolute crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Plus, you can personalize them by adding chocolate chips or nuts, making them even more irresistible. Are you ready to dive into the deliciousness that awaits?

Why Are Salted Caramel Cookies Irresistible?

Indulgence Awaits: These salted caramel cookies deliver a luxurious taste experience with gooey caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt.
Effortlessly Easy: You won’t need a culinary degree—this recipe is simple enough for any home cook to master quickly.
Versatile Treat: Customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips or nuts for a personal twist that everyone will love.
Gourmet Quality: Achieve bakery-style results in your own kitchen, making these cookies perfect for any special occasion.
Crowd Favorite: Warm, chewy centers and a crispy edge make these cookies a hit with friends and family, ideal for any gathering.
Grab a glass of cold milk and enjoy these delightful treats with a hint of nostalgia! If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in some Bacon Gruyere Caramelized bites for an unexpected gourmet experience!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

• Ready to create your own irresistible salted caramel cookie recipe? Here’s what you’ll need!

For the Cookie Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure for chewy cookies; gluten-free flour can be a great alternative.
Baking soda – Helps your cookies rise, giving them that fluffy texture; no substitutions needed.
Salt – Balances the sweetness prominently; kosher salt is an excellent substitute in a pinch.
Unsalted butter – Contributes rich flavor; consider using a dairy-free alternative for a different twist.
Granulated sugar – Adds crispness and sweetness; no alternatives necessary.
Brown sugar – Infuses moisture and caramel notes; feel free to choose between light or dark.
Large eggs – Essential for binding the ingredients and ensuring moisture; remember to bring them to room temperature for the best results.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for a more delightful taste.
Caramel chips – Introduce gooey pockets of caramel; Kraft caramel bits work wonderfully if you need a substitute.
Chocolate chips (optional) – Introduce a rich layer of flavor; dark chocolate can elevate the experience even more.
Flaky sea salt – Adds that signature sweet-salty contrast on each cookie; use coarse salt if flaky isn’t available.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the salted caramel cookies don’t stick during baking. This simple step helps you prepare for a smooth baking experience, allowing you to focus on mixing the delicious cookie dough.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This combination creates the foundation of the cookies. Set aside the bowl as you prepare to mix your wet ingredients. The goal is to have a well-balanced mix that ensures perfect texture in your salted caramel cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer. The fluffiness enhances the cookie’s texture, creating a delightful chewy center that perfectly complements the salty-sweet flavor.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, crack in 2 large eggs, adding them one at a time, followed by 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Beat the mixture until smooth and well combined, which will take about 1-2 minutes. This step not only binds your salted caramel cookie ingredients but also enhances the overall delicious flavor profile of the dough.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will ensure your cookies stay tender and chewy. The dough should start to come together beautifully, signaling that your salted caramel cookie batter is almost ready for the delicious chunks of caramel.

Step 6: Fold in the Caramel Chips
Now it’s time to fold in 1 cup of caramel chips, along with any optional chocolate chips you desire. Use a spatula to gently mix until the chips are evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is crucial for achieving those gooey pockets of caramel in each of your salted caramel cookies, adding a rich and satisfying bite.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop generous balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. You should yield about 12-15 cookies per sheet. This spacing will allow the cookies to spread without merging into one another as they bake, ensuring each treat has a delightful shape.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Before baking, sprinkle each cookie generously with flaky sea salt. This not only enhances the flavor but creates that irresistible sweet-and-salty contrast that makes these salted caramel cookies so special. The visual appeal of the salt on top makes them even more tempting as they go into the oven.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the centers still appear slightly soft. Keep a close eye on them as they bake so you can pull them from the oven at just the right moment for optimal texture.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the salted caramel cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period ensures the cookies maintain their chewy centers while developing a lovely golden-brown exterior, ready to be savored with a tall glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.

Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe Variations

Feel free to let your creativity soar and customize these cookies to suit your taste!

Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for an irresistible crunch that complements the sweetness.
Double Chocolate: Mix in dark chocolate chips along with caramel chips for an upgraded treat that’s rich and decadent.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cooled cookies for an extra layer of gooey goodness with every bite.
Sea Salt Caramel Swirls: Instead of traditional caramel chips, swirl in some store-bought salted caramel sauce for a luscious texture.
Spicy Kick: Add a touch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie dough for a surprising heat that plays off the sweetness beautifully.
Dairy-Free Version: Substitute unsalted butter with a dairy-free butter alternative and use coconut milk instead of regular milk during mixing for a delightful twist.
Choco-Peanut Butter Fusion: Combine caramel chips with peanut butter chips for a flavor explosion that will remind you of a classic candy bar.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a fresh zing and natural sweetness. Enjoy the mix of textures!

So, if you’re in the mood for a sweet twist, consider adding chocolate chips from our Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe or even integrating flavors from a Banana Cake Moist for a surprise element! Let these variations guide you to create your perfect salted caramel cookie masterpiece.

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store baked salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks, but expect a slight change in texture.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Defrost before enjoying.

Cookie Dough Storage: Scoop and freeze cookie dough balls individually for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow to thaw slightly before baking.

Make Ahead Options

These salted caramel cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by scooping the dough onto baking sheets, covering them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerating. To ensure quality, keep the cookies well-covered to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply take the dough out, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and bake as directed, adding an extra minute or two since the dough will be cold. Alternatively, you can freeze the cookie dough individually for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before baking for delicious, fresh cookies that are just as indulgent as if they were made that day!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Butter Matters: Always use softened unsalted butter for the best flavor. Consider browning it for a deeper, nutty taste before creaming it with sugar.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined when incorporating dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the tender, chewy ones you crave.
Perfect Salt Balance: Don’t skimp on the flaky sea salt! A generous sprinkle enhances the flavors, giving your salted caramel cookies their signature presence.
Freezing Dough: For fresh cookies anytime, scoop and freeze the dough balls. This allows you to bake just the right amount whenever a sweet craving strikes.
Watch Your Time: Baking times can vary—check your cookies at the lower end of the suggested time. You want them lightly golden at the edges, with soft centers.

Now you’re ready to create the best salted caramel cookie recipe that will surely impress your friends and family!

What to Serve with Irresistible Bakery-Style Salted Caramel Cookies

Create the perfect accompaniment to your warm, gooey cookies that will surely impress friends and family.

Cold Milk: A classic pairing, cold milk beautifully balances the sweetness and enhances the cookie’s flavors with every dip.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve cookies warm topped with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that melts in your mouth.
Coffee: Brewed coffee adds a slight bitterness, complementing the sweet, buttery caramel and creating a delightful flavor contrast.
Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm salted caramel sauce over each cookie before serving for an extra burst of flavor that takes indulgence to the next level.
Chocolate Milkshake: The creamy richness of a chocolate milkshake seamlessly complements the texture of cookies, making for an irresistible combination.
Nutty Biscotti: Pair these cookies with a crunchy nutty biscotti for additional texture and a delightful contrast between crisp and chewy.
Fresh Berries: Bright and tart fresh berries can cut through the sweetness, refreshing your palate while enjoying these cookies.
Sparkling Water: A refreshing glass of sparkling water with a hint of lemon adds a crispness that enhances the cookie-eating experience.
Cheesecake Bites: Little cheesecake bites offer a creamy, sweet contrast, making each bite of salted caramel cookie feel even more decadent.

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for salted caramel cookies?
You can use all-purpose flour for the best results, as it provides the structure needed for these delicious cookies. If you’re looking for a gluten-free alternative, gluten-free flour works wonderfully as well!

How should I store my salted caramel cookies?
Store baked salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps retain their delightful chewy texture. If you’d like them to last a bit longer, they can be refrigerated in the same type of container for up to 2 weeks; however, keep in mind that this may slightly alter their texture.

Can I freeze salted caramel cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze them, first, allow the cookies to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag where they can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a tasty treat!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your salted caramel cookies spread too much, it might be due to warm butter or overmixing the dough. To prevent this, make sure the butter is softened but not melted, and mix the dry ingredients just until combined. Space out the dough scoops on the baking sheet (at least 2 inches apart) to provide plenty of room for spreading.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my salted caramel cookies?
Yes, the more, the merrier! You can absolutely add chocolate chips or chopped nuts, like pecans, to personalize your salted caramel cookies. Simply fold in about ½ cup of your chosen mix-ins along with the caramel chips to create your perfect cookie blend!

Is this salted caramel cookie recipe suitable for people with allergies?
This recipe contains common allergens like gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and eggs. For a dairy-free version, you can swap the unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative, and ensure you choose egg replacements suitable for your dietary needs. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to check the labels of your ingredients to accommodate dietary restrictions.