Caramel cookies are a decadent treat that are perfect for those with a sweet tooth. The rich, buttery flavor of the caramel blends perfectly with the chocolate chips creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The touch of coarse salt provides a unique savory balance to the sweetness, making these cookies a perfect combination of flavors.
For this recipe, you may need to pick up caramel chips and caramel candies, such as Werther's, from your local supermarket, if not already at hand. While chocolate chips are usually a staple in most kitchens, the caramel chips provide a unique flavor to these cookies. Similarly, the caramel candies add a chewy, caramel core to each cookie bite.
Ingredients for Caramel Cookies
all purpose flour: This is the base of your cookie dough and provides structure to your cookies.
baking soda: It's a leavening agent that helps your cookies rise and spread.
coarse salt: This adds a savory touch to balance out the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate.
brown sugar: It adds moisture and a deep molasses flavor to your cookies.
unsalted butter: This adds fat and moisture for a chewy cookie texture.
white sugar: It sweetens the cookies and helps them brown.
eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
vanilla extract: This enhances the flavor of your cookies.
chocolate chips: They add sweet, chocolatey pockets to your cookies.
caramel chips: These add a chewy, sweet caramel flavor.
caramel candies: These melt into gooey caramel pockets inside your cookies.
One reader, Jobi Cromwell says:
This caramel cookie recipe is a game-changer! The cookies turned out soft, chewy, and packed with caramel and chocolate goodness. The addition of the Werther's caramels on top was a brilliant touch. My family couldn't get enough of them. Definitely a new favorite in our household!
Techniques Required for Making Caramel Cookies
How to prepare the dough: Mixing the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients until a smooth dough forms. How to fold in the chocolate and caramel chips: Gently combining the chips into the dough without overmixing to ensure even distribution. How to roll the dough into balls: Shaping the dough into 1 1/2 inch-2 inch balls to create uniform cookies. How to press the caramel pieces into the cookies: Gently pressing three caramel segments into the top of each cookie immediately after removing them from the oven. How to sprinkle with coarse salt: Evenly sprinkling coarse salt over the cookies to add a savory contrast to the sweetness.
How To Make Caramel Cookies
That sprinkling of sea salt takes these soft and chewy caramel cookies to the next level. This cookie is the perfect mix of sweet and salty.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 3cupall purpose flour
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1tspcoarse salt
- 1¾cupbrown sugar
- 1cupunsalted butter,softened
- ¼cupwhite sugar
- 2eggs
- 2tspvanilla extract
- 1cupchocolate chips
- 1cupcaramel chips
- 18caramel candies,(each piece cut into 6 segments)
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F
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In a bowl add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix.
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In a separate bowl, or a mixing bowl, beat together brown sugar, butter, and white sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, and beat until fluffy. Add the vanilla and mix.
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Add the dry ingredients to the sugar mixture. Mix until dough is combined.
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Fold in the chocolate and caramel chips. Roll the dough into 1½ inch to 2 inch balls and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes.
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Right when the cookies come out of the oven press 3 caramel pieces into the top of each cookie and then sprinkle with coarse salt. The caramels will melt and the salt will set in.
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If needed, place the cookies back into the oven for an additional minute to help the caramel pieces melt in the cookie.
Nutrition
- Calories: 170.97kcal
- Fat: 7.33g
- Saturated Fat: 4.36g
- Trans Fat: 0.22g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.50g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.47g
- Carbohydrates: 24.66g
- Fiber: 0.45g
- Sugar: 15.68g
- Protein: 1.98g
- Cholesterol: 23.75mg
- Sodium: 91.77mg
- Calcium: 24.90mg
- Potassium: 37.12mg
- Iron: 0.66mg
- Vitamin A: 47.59µg
- Vitamin C: 0.06mg
Technique Tip for Perfecting Caramel Cookies
When incorporating the caramel candies into the freshly baked cookies, it's important to press them in while the cookies are still warm. This allows the caramel to melt slightly and adhere to the cookie, creating a gooey, delicious texture. If the caramel pieces are not melting enough, don't hesitate to put the cookies back in the oven for an additional minute. This will ensure the caramel melts properly and infuses into the cookie. However, be careful not to overdo it, as caramel can burn easily.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Caramel Cookie Recipe
Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use a mixer: Utilize a stand mixer or hand mixer to quickly and efficiently combine the cookie dough ingredients.
Chill the dough: Place the cookie dough in the refrigerator to firm it up, making it easier to handle and shape into balls.
Double the batch: Consider making a larger batch and freezing half for future use, saving time on preparation later.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid unnecessary time spent searching for tools and ingredients.
Follow the recipe: Carefully read through the recipe and instructions before starting to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Use parchment paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Set a timer: Use a timer to keep track of baking and cooling times, allowing you to multitask without worrying about overcooking.
Invest in quality tools: Quality kitchen tools and equipment can make the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.
Clean as you go: Wash dishes, utensils, and countertops as you cook to minimize cleanup time at the end.
Substitute Ingredients For Caramel Cookies Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the cookies, which can complement the caramel and chocolate flavors.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Baking powder can be used as a substitute for baking soda in this recipe, but it may affect the texture and rise of the cookies.
coarse salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a similar salty flavor and a subtle crunch to the cookies.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar, offering a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of caramel.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, adding a hint of coconut flavor to the cookies.
white sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the cookies and also act as a binding agent.
eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a vegan-friendly substitute for eggs, adding moisture and a subtle sweetness to the cookies.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can provide a slightly different flavor profile, adding a nutty and sweet aroma to the cookies.
chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs can be used as a healthier alternative to chocolate chips, providing a rich, chocolatey flavor with added crunch.
caramel chips - Substitute with toffee bits: Toffee bits can offer a similar caramel flavor and texture to the cookies.
caramel candies (such as Werther's) - Substitute with butterscotch candies: Butterscotch candies can provide a similar buttery and caramel-like flavor to the cookies.
Best Way to Present These Delightful Caramel Cookies
Elevate the cookie size: Present the cookies in a larger format to create a grand and indulgent appearance. This will make a bold statement and showcase the richness of the caramel and chocolate flavors.
Artful placement: Arrange the cookies on a sleek, modern platter with ample spacing between each cookie. This will allow each cookie to stand out and be appreciated as an individual work of art.
Garnish with edible gold leaf: Add a touch of luxury by delicately placing edible gold leaf on and around the cookies. This will add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the presentation.
Accompany with a caramel drizzle: Drizzle a luscious caramel sauce in an artistic pattern on the serving platter, creating a stunning visual effect that complements the flavors of the cookies.
Serve on a bed of spun sugar: Present the cookies on a delicate bed of spun sugar to create a whimsical and ethereal presentation that will captivate the senses.
Use a custom-made serving dish: Serve the cookies on a custom-made dish that reflects the artistry and craftsmanship of the dessert, elevating the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Caramel Cookies
- Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the cookie dough.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the cookie dough balls and bake the cookies in the oven.
- Oven: The oven is used for baking the cookies at the specified temperature.
- Spatula: A spatula is used for transferring the cookies onto a cooling rack after baking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure the ingredients for the cookie dough.
- Whisk: A whisk is used to beat the brown sugar, butter, and white sugar until creamy and to mix the dry ingredients.
- Cookie scoop: A cookie scoop can be used to portion out the cookie dough onto the baking sheet, ensuring evenly sized cookies.
- Cooling rack: A cooling rack is used to cool the cookies after they are baked.
How To Store and Freeze Caramel Cookies
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- To keep the cookies extra fresh and chewy, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies soft.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about an hour, or until they reach your desired level of chewiness.
- If you prefer a slightly warmed cookie, you can microwave the thawed cookie for 10-15 seconds before enjoying it.
- To freeze cookie dough for later use, roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls until they are firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake the frozen cookie dough, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe. You may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time to account for the colder dough.
How To Reheat Leftover Caramel Cookies
The best way to reheat leftover caramel cookies is to place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This method will help restore the cookies' crispy texture and melt the caramel pieces, making them gooey and delicious again.
Another option is to use a microwave, but be cautious as it can make the cookies soggy if overheated. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature and texture. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the caramel from burning.
For a quicker and more convenient method, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F, place the cookies on the rack, and heat for 3-4 minutes or until the cookies are warm and the caramel is melted.
If you want to enjoy your leftover caramel cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, you can create a delightful dessert by warming the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds and then placing them on top of the ice cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey cookie and the cold, creamy ice cream will be heavenly.
Lastly, if you prefer a softer texture, you can wrap the cookies in a damp paper towel before reheating them in the microwave. This method will help maintain the cookies' moisture and prevent them from becoming too crispy. Heat the wrapped cookies in 10-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature and texture.
Random Fact About Caramel Cookies
The caramel cookie recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of caramel and chocolate. These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are great for sharing with friends and family. They are a delicious combination of chewy, gooey, and crunchy textures, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Enjoy these caramel cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful snack.
Is Making Caramel Cookies at Home Economical?
The caramel cookie recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a large batch of cookies. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an affordable treat. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10. The combination of chocolate chips and caramel chips creates a delightful flavor, and the addition of caramel candies on top adds a unique touch. These cookies are a delicious and budget-friendly option for any family.
Is This Caramel Cookie Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This caramel cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The high amounts of butter, sugar (both brown and white), and chocolate and caramel chips contribute to a cookie that is high in calories, fat, and added sugars. The all-purpose flour used in the recipe is also refined, meaning it lacks the beneficial fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours. Additionally, the recipe does not include any fruits, vegetables, or other nutrient-dense ingredients that could help balance out the indulgent nature of the treat.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase the fiber content
- Reduce the amount of brown and white sugar by 25-50% to lower the overall sugar content
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate for a higher antioxidant content and less sugar
- Replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce or mashed avocado to reduce the saturated fat content
- Add in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to increase the protein and healthy fat content
- Experiment with using a sugar substitute, such as erythritol or stevia, to further reduce the sugar content without sacrificing sweetness
Editor's Opinion on This Delectable Caramel Cookie Recipe
The caramel cookie recipe you provided is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors. The use of both chocolate and caramel chips adds a rich and indulgent touch to the cookies. The addition of caramel candies on top creates a gooey and decadent finish. However, I would recommend adjusting the amount of caramel candies to avoid overwhelming sweetness. Overall, this recipe has great potential to create delicious and unique cookies that will surely be a hit with anyone who loves caramel and chocolate flavors.
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Why trust this Caramel Cookies Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delectable treat, as it combines the richness of caramel and the indulgence of chocolate. The use of brown sugar and vanilla extract enhances the depth of flavor, while the addition of caramel chips and chocolate chips ensures a delightful texture. The careful placement of caramel candies on top, along with a sprinkle of coarse salt, promises a perfect balance of sweet and salty notes. The meticulous instructions and thoughtful combination of ingredients make this recipe a trustworthy choice for a delightful cookie experience.
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