Name: Sweet and Salty Bliss: Perfect Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour if needed); 1 teaspoon baking soda (essential for rising); 0.5 teaspoon salt (use kosher or sea salt as alternatives); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (softened; can use margarine for dairy-free option); 0.75 cups granulated sugar (consider substituting half with coconut sugar); 0.75 cups brown sugar (both light and dark sugars work interchangeably); 2 large eggs (use at room temperature; can substitute with applesauce); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure extract is best); 1 cup caramel chips (can swap for chocolate chips); 0.5 cups chocolate chips (optional for added richness); to taste flaky sea salt (use table salt if unavailable)

The air was thick with the sweet scent of baking when I first decided to whip up a batch of salted caramel cookies. As I melted butter and brown sugar into a velvety blend, I could already imagine how those pockets of gooey caramel would transform ordinary cookie moments into something extraordinary. This Salted Caramel Cookie recipe is exactly what you need for a delightful treat that combines the best of both worlds—indulgent sweetness with a hint of sea salt that enhances every bite. With an effortless preparation that guarantees bakery-quality results, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or simply enjoying solo with a cup of coffee. So, are you ready to elevate your cookie game and discover the magic of these irresistibly chewy treats?

Why are Salted Caramel Cookies So Irresistible?

Decadent Flavors: The combination of sweet caramel and a touch of sea salt is a match made in dessert heaven, enhancing every bite with a surprising twist.

Simple Preparation: You don’t need to be a baking pro—just a few basic ingredients and steps result in cookies that taste like they came from your favorite bakery.

Texture Delight: Enjoy the contrast of soft, chewy centers with crisp edges that keep your taste buds excited.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies will be the star of any dessert table, especially when paired with a glass of milk or a warm drink.

Ready to discover even more delicious cookie ideas? Check out our Bakery Style Cookies or whip up a batch of Peanut Butter Cookies for a delightful treat that everyone will love!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

• Essential ingredients to create these delicious treats.

For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour if needed.
Baking Soda – Essential for rising; there’s no substitute for a perfect texture.
Salt – Balances sweetness; feel free to use kosher salt or sea salt as alternatives.
Unsalted Butter – Softened for easy mixing; can use margarine for a dairy-free option, though the flavor may vary.
Granulated Sugar – Creates a crisp cookie; consider substituting half with coconut sugar for lower glycemic impact.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and caramel flavor; both light and dark brown sugars work interchangeably.
Large Eggs – Use at room temperature for better mixing; replace 1 egg with 1/4 cup applesauce for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure extract is best, or try almond extract for a unique twist.
Caramel Chips – Infuses gooey pockets of caramel; you can swap them for chocolate chips if preferred.
Chocolate Chips (Optional) – Adds richness; omit for a classic flavor or choose dark chocolate for something richer.
Flaky Sea Salt – Provides a sweet-salty contrast; table salt can be used but will lack texture.

Explore the magic of salted caramel cookies—your taste buds will thank you!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring easy cookie removal later on. This step is crucial as it prepares the environment for baking your indulgent salted caramel cookies to perfection.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. This blend creates the foundation for your cookies, ensuring they rise and achieve the ideal texture. Set this bowl aside while you continue with the next steps.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a larger bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar using a hand mixer at medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should become light and fluffy with a pale color, which indicates that air has been adequately incorporated to create a tender cookie.

Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Next, add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The eggs contribute richness, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor of your salted caramel cookies. Be sure to mix until smooth and well incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep your cookies chewy and tender. You’ll notice the dough coming together beautifully, ready for the delicious mix-ins to come.

Step 6: Fold in Caramel Chips
Carefully fold in 1 cup of caramel chips and, if desired, ½ cup of chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. These gooey caramel pockets will create that signature sweetness in your salted caramel cookies, making them utterly irresistible.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread while baking without merging into one another. Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie mound for that perfect salty contrast.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should look golden brown while the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked for that perfect chewy consistency. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures may vary.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the trays from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Then, cool completely to savor the flavors of your freshly baked salted caramel cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first six steps, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For added convenience, scoop the dough onto the baking sheets before refrigerating—this way, all you need to do is bake them straight from the fridge! Just remember, if the dough is cold, you may need to add an extra minute or two to the baking time. Enjoy delicious, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and make these salted caramel cookies your own with these delicious variations!

Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, enhancing both texture and flavor. The richness of the nuts beautifully complements the sweet caramel.
Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate chocolate chunks instead of chips for a double-header of indulging chocolate and caramel in every bite. The melty chocolate adds an exquisite richness!
Vegan Friendly: Substitute 1 egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce for a vegan version, retaining the moistness and deliciousness. Pair it with some vegan chocolate chips to keep the treat entirely plant-based.
Flavor Twist: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor profile that brings a nutty undertone to the cookies. Taste the difference and surprise your friends!
Sweet Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle some warm caramel sauce over the cookies for an extravagant finishing touch. This added layer of sweetness elevates them to gourmet status!
Healthier Option: Use half coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a lower glycemic index option, maintaining sweetness while offering a hint of caramel flavor.
Salty Kick: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked sea salt on top before baking for a smoky twist that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite will surprise you with depth and dimension!
Freeze for Later: Shape dough into balls and freeze for future baking. When the cookie craving hits, simply bake off straight from frozen—no thawing required.

For more delightful cookie inspirations, explore our delicious Oreo Cheesecake Cookie Cups or try out some scrumptious Blueberry Cookies Vegan. Enjoy baking!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Cookies

Indulging in the sweet, salty delight of salted caramel cookies opens a world of pairing possibilities that can elevate your treat experience.

Glass of Milk: The classic companion! Cold milk complements the buttery richness of the cookies and balances their sweetness beautifully.
Warm Coffee: The bitter notes of coffee enhance the sweetness of the cookies, creating a well-rounded flavor for your afternoon treat or cozy breakfast.
Chocolate Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy decadence next to your cookies creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the dense, chewy cookie, enhancing every bite.
Fresh Berries: Juicy raspberries or strawberries provide a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness, adding a touch of brightness.
Cinnamon Spiced Tea: The warmth of spiced tea perfectly complements the caramel flavors, creating a comforting and aromatic pairing.
Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle on some toasted pecans or walnuts for an added crunchy texture and nutty flavor that enhances the cookies’ sweetness.

Mix and match these delightful accompaniments for an unforgettable dessert experience that will make your salted caramel cookies even more irresistible!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use softened butter that is still cool; this ensures it creams perfectly with sugars, avoiding oily cookies.
Don’t Overmix: After adding the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing produces tough cookies instead of the chewy, tender centers we crave in salted caramel cookies.
Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This step can enhance flavor and prevent spreading too much during baking.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies in the last couple of minutes. Removing them from the oven while they’re slightly underbaked guarantees a gooey center, which is key to a perfect salted caramel cookie.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or different types of chocolate chips for a unique twist on this salted caramel cookie recipe.

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

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

Fridge: If you prefer to keep them a little longer, store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure they’re tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy your cookies warm, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will revive the gooey caramel pockets making your salted caramel cookies just as delightful as the day they were baked.

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of caramel chips should I use?
Absolutely! You can use store-bought caramel chips, which are specifically designed for melting and baking. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade caramel can bring unique flavors to your cookies. Just ensure it’s not too runny!

How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To maintain their chewy texture, make sure they are fully cooled before sealing. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Can salted caramel cookies be frozen?
Yes! For freezing, first lay your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 1 month in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you find your cookies are spreading too much, it might be due to using too warm butter. Make sure it’s softened but not melted, or chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape.

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Certainly! Opt for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend to substitute for all-purpose flour. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum for structure, as this will help mimic the texture of traditional salted caramel cookies.

What if I have nut allergies?
No worries! You can absolutely make these salted caramel cookies nut-free. Simply avoid any optional nuts and ensure that your chocolate chips and caramel chips are also produced in a nut-free facility. Enjoy a safe and delightful treat!