Salted Caramel Cookies

These quick and easy Salted Caramel Cookies are flavor perfection! Giant, bakery-style, sweet sugar cookies are filled with chewy salted caramel and topped with sparkly flaky sea salt. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies make a great addition to holiday cookie exchanges or can be a delightful homemade gift that impresses friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet caramel and a hint of salt creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for various occasions like parties, holidays, or just as an indulgent snack at home.
• Impressive Appearance: Their giant size and glossy caramel filling make them visually stunning on any dessert table.
• Great for Gifting: Pack these cookies in a cute box to share with friends or family as a thoughtful gift.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Salted Caramel Cookies, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating butter and sugars together for a smooth texture.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution for consistent baking results.

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

For the Caramel Filling

• 2 (10.5 oz) bags Werther’s Chewy Caramels (unwrapped)
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Flaky sea salt (for garnish)

How to Make Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Salt
3. Baking soda
4. Cream of tartar

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Vegetable oil
3. Light brown sugar
4. Powdered sugar

Continue mixing until smooth. Add in:
– The egg
– Milk
– Vanilla extract

Beat until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cookies tender.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using your hands, roll two heaping tablespoons of dough into large balls, about the size of golf balls.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Place the dough balls on prepared cookie sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Use a small buttered measuring cup (like a 1/8 cup) to gently create an indent in the center of each cookie.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes. The cookies should remain light in color as they finish cooking while cooling on the sheet.

Step 8: Cool Down

Remove from oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Prepare Caramel Filling

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine unwrapped caramels and milk. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue microwaving in 15-second intervals until melted completely. Stir in salt thoroughly.

Step 10: Fill Cookies

Pour or drizzle the melted caramel into the indents of your cooled cookies. Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top before it begins to set.

Step 11: Final Touches

Allow the caramel to re-harden before moving your cookies. Store them in an airtight container for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Cookies!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Cookies

Serve these indulgent Salted Caramel Cookies warm or at room temperature for the best experience. They are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a classic glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness and enhance the chewy texture.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange your Salted Caramel Cookies on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits, like strawberries or apple slices, for a delightful contrast.

At a Cookie Exchange

• Bring these cookies to a cookie exchange event; their unique flavor will make them a standout favorite among other treats.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for an indulgent dessert option that melts in your mouth.

Gift-Wrapped

• Package these cookies in decorative boxes or tins as homemade gifts. They make an excellent treat for holidays or special occasions.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Cookies

To achieve the ultimate Salted Caramel Cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your baking technique.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined to prevent tough cookies; overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Chill the Dough: If possible, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and creates thicker cookies.
• Watch Baking Time Closely: Remove cookies when they look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool, ensuring chewiness.
• Sprinkle Salt Generously: Add flaky sea salt immediately after drizzling caramel so it sticks and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Cookies

These Salted Caramel Cookies pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here’s a list of great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds refreshing brightness to counterbalance the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or mozzarella, provides a savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with sweet treats.
3. Nut Mix
   A simple blend of salted nuts offers crunch and satisfies salty cravings while balancing the cookie’s sweetness.
4. Chocolate Bark
   Dark chocolate bark adds depth and richness- melt-in-your-mouth chocolate complements the caramel beautifully.
5. Vanilla Yogurt Dip
   Serve with creamy vanilla yogurt dip for a smooth texture that enhances flavors without overpowering them.
6. Coffee or Tea
   A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea serves as an excellent drink pairing, enhancing both taste and aroma during dessert time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salted Caramel Cookies, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your baking experience and result in better cookies.

• Overmixing the dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can affect the texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for accuracy.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you skip chilling the dough, your cookies may spread too much while baking. Always chill for at least 30 minutes if recommended.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter does not cream well with sugars, leading to uneven mixing. Always use softened butter for a smooth batter.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause undercooked or burnt cookies. Invest in an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Salted Caramel Cookies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Salted Caramel Cookies

• Freeze cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• For best results, freeze them before drizzling caramel, then add it after thawing.

Reheating Salted Caramel Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for 5-6 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Salted Caramel Cookies.

What are Salted Caramel Cookies?

Salted Caramel Cookies are soft sugar cookies filled with chewy caramel and topped with flaky sea salt, providing a perfect sweet-salty balance.

Can I use different types of caramel?

Yes! You can substitute store-bought caramels with homemade caramel sauce if you prefer a more personalized flavor.

How do I make my cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier Salted Caramel Cookies, try using more brown sugar than white sugar. Additionally, avoid overbaking them; they should look slightly underdone when you take them out.

How long do salted caramel cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they last up to one week at room temperature or longer if refrigerated or frozen.

Can I customize my salted caramel cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for extra texture and flavor variations.

Final Thoughts

These Salted Caramel Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. Whether for a holiday treat or a simple dessert, their delightful blend of flavors will impress anyone who tries them. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite add-ins!