Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Introduction

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a decadent treat that combines rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and a hint of sea salt for the ultimate sweet-and-savory experience. These soft and chewy cookies are filled with bits of caramel and dark chocolate, with a sprinkle of flaky salt on top to enhance the flavors.

The first time I baked these, the aroma of chocolate and caramel filled the kitchen, and they disappeared almost as soon as they came out of the oven. What makes these cookies so special is the balance of flavors—the deep richness of the chocolate, the buttery sweetness of the caramel, and the subtle, briny kick from the sea salt.

These cookies are perfect for chocolate lovers or anyone who enjoys a sophisticated twist on a classic treat. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, a holiday, or just to indulge your cravings, they’re sure to impress. Serve them warm for that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth texture, or enjoy them with a glass of milk for a comforting snack.

Perfect for:

• Chocolate lovers
• Special occasions
• Gift-giving
• Desserts with a gourmet touch
• Sweet-and-savory enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Here’s why Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies will become a go-to dessert in your kitchen:

• Rich and Decadent: The combination of dark chocolate and caramel creates a bold, indulgent flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfectly Balanced: The sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate, creating a beautifully balanced flavor profile.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies have a wonderfully soft, chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
• Elevated Flavor: The hint of salt adds a gourmet touch, making these cookies stand out from traditional chocolate cookies.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, these cookies come together quickly and easily.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150-170 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 2g, Carbs: 22g, Fat: 7g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup caramel bits or soft caramels, chopped
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips
• Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Ingredient Highlights

• Cocoa Powder: Adds a deep chocolate flavor to the cookie base, setting the stage for a rich treat.
• Caramel Bits: Provide gooey pockets of sweetness throughout the cookie.
• Dark Chocolate Chips: Perfectly complement the caramel with a bittersweet contrast.
• Flaky Sea Salt: A light sprinkle on top enhances the sweetness and adds a sophisticated touch.
• Butter: Softened butter creates the soft, chewy texture these cookies are known for.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies:

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
6. Fold in Caramel and Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the caramel bits and dark chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shape and Bake the Cookies:

7. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Add Salt: Lightly sprinkle each dough ball with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft.
10. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a crowd-pleaser, and there are many ways to enjoy them:

• With a Glass of Milk: The classic pairing of cookies and milk is perfect for these indulgent treats.
• As a Dessert Plate: Serve with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an elevated presentation.
• Gift-Giving: Wrap these cookies in parchment paper or decorative tins for a thoughtful, homemade gift.
• Holiday Treats: Add them to your holiday cookie tray for a standout dessert option.
• With Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Enjoy these cookies alongside a warm beverage for a cozy snack.

Additional Tips for Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps ensure the dough mixes evenly for the best texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes before scooping.
• Experiment with Chocolate: Try using milk chocolate or white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Store Properly: To keep the cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Recipe Variations for Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Here are 10 fun variations to try:

• Milk Chocolate Caramel Cookies: Swap dark chocolate chips for milk chocolate chips for a sweeter flavor.
• Double Chocolate Caramel Cookies: Add an extra ½ cup of chocolate chips for a more intense chocolate experience.
• Salted White Chocolate Caramel Cookies: Use white chocolate chips for a creamy, contrasting sweetness.
• Nutty Caramel Cookies: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for added crunch.
• Spiced Salted Caramel Cookies: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a subtle spicy kick.
• Caramel Stuffed Cookies: Use soft caramels, rolling the dough around each piece for a gooey center.
• Gluten-Free Caramel Cookies: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dark Chocolate Espresso Cookies: Add a teaspoon of espresso powder for a bold, mocha-like flavor.
• Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies: Swirl in a tablespoon of peanut butter for a nutty twist.
• Vegan Salted Caramel Cookies: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and dairy-free caramel for a vegan version.

Freezing and Storage for Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

• Freezing: Freeze the dough in scoops on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 4-5 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Special Equipment for Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer – For creaming butter and sugar efficiently.
• Silicone Baking Mat or Parchment Paper – To ensure cookies don’t stick to the baking sheet.
• Cookie Scoop – For evenly portioning cookie dough.
• Baking Sheet – A sturdy, flat surface for baking the cookies.
• Cooling Rack – To cool the cookies evenly after baking.
• Double Boiler or Heatproof Bowl and Saucepan – For melting chocolate or making caramel.
• Candy Thermometer – For precise caramel-making.
• Offset Spatula – For spreading caramel or transferring cookies easily.
• Fine Mesh Sieve – For sprinkling flaky sea salt evenly over the cookies.
• Airtight Cookie Tin or Jar – For storing cookies and keeping them fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions for Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

1. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of caramel bits?
   No, as caramel sauce is too runny and won’t hold its shape during baking. Use solid caramel bits or soft caramels instead.
2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours or freeze it for up to 2 months.
3. How do I prevent caramel from sticking to the pan?
   Use parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
4. What’s the best chocolate for this recipe?
   Dark chocolate chips or chunks work best, but you can experiment with milk or semi-sweet chocolate.
5. How do I make them chewier?
   Use more brown sugar than granulated sugar and slightly underbake the cookies for a chewier texture.

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Conclusion

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a decadent treat that combines rich, fudgy chocolate with gooey caramel centers and a sprinkle of sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and salty. With their irresistible flavors and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more.

This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a party, sharing as a gift, or indulging in a cozy night at home. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a truly satisfying treat that takes cookie baking to the next level.

I’d love to see how your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!