Every now and then, a recipe comes along that changes the game. These caramel cookies are that recipe. Perfectly chewy, with a rich caramel flavor that’ll have you coming back for more, they’re a must-try for any cookie lover.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of brown sugar and melted butter creates a deep, caramel-like flavor that’s irresistible.
- Adding a touch of sea salt on top balances the sweetness and elevates the cookies to gourmet status.
- The dough is chilled before baking, which prevents spreading and ensures thick, chewy cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup caramel chips
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter and brown sugar. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until well combined, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. This creates a smooth, creamy base for your cookies.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as the flour disappears. Fold in the caramel chips for that gooey, caramel goodness in every bite.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking. The chilled dough will result in thicker, chewier cookies with a perfect texture.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line your baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the dough into 1 1/2-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets. Lightly press each ball down and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for that sweet and salty contrast.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows the cookies to set without becoming too hard.
Tips and Tricks
For an even more intense caramel flavor, try browning the butter before adding it to the recipe. Simply melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns a golden brown color and smells nutty. Be careful not to burn it! Another tip is to use high-quality caramel chips for the best flavor and texture. If you can’t find caramel chips, chopped caramel candies are a great substitute. Lastly, don’t skip the sea salt sprinkle—it’s the secret to balancing the sweetness and adding a gourmet touch.
Recipe Variations
- For a chocolate twist, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough along with the caramel chips.
- Swap out the caramel chips for butterscotch chips for a different but equally delicious flavor profile.
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and texture.
- For a seasonal variation, mix in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and orange zest for a festive twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies. Start by omitting the 1/4 teaspoon of salt and adjust to taste.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months or freeze the dough balls and bake as needed.
Can I make these cookies without an electric mixer?
Absolutely! While an electric mixer makes the process easier, you can mix the dough by hand with a sturdy wooden spoon. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout, especially when incorporating the flour.
Summary
These caramel cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie, offering a rich caramel flavor with a perfect chewy texture. With tips for customization and storage, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.