Name: Heavenly Salted Caramel Cookies You’ll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Essential for texture.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt recommended.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Can use coconut sugar.); 3/4 cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark works.); 2 large Eggs (Room temperature preferred.); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure for best taste.); 1 cup Caramel Chips (Chopped soft caramels can also work.); 1/2 cup Chocolate Chips (Optional, choose semi-sweet or dark.); to taste Flaky Sea Salt (Maldon sea salt works beautifully.)

The scent of caramel wafting through the kitchen takes me back to carefree afternoons spent baking cookies with loved ones. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Salted Caramel Cookies, a perfect blend of gooey caramel and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. These delightful cookies are remarkably simple to whip up, making them an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers alike. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply indulge yourself during a quiet evening at home, these cookies bring the charm of a bakery right into your kitchen. Plus, with the option to add chocolate chips or even brown your butter, you can customize them to suit any craving. Are you ready to elevate your cookie game? Let’s dive into this sweet adventure!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

**Heavenly **: Baking these salted caramel cookies fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma that no one can resist.

Customizable: With options for chocolate chips or a hint of browning butter, you can tailor each batch to fit your favorite flavors.

Effortless: Even beginner bakers can achieve bakery-quality results with this straightforward recipe.

Crowd Pleaser: Whether at a holiday gathering or a casual get-together, these cookies will charm everyone at the table.

Gooey Goodness: Each bite unveils pockets of melted caramel perfectly complemented by a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, creating a divine taste sensation.

Ready to make more delicious treats? Try my Oreo Cheesecake Cookie or indulge in Pumpkin Smores Cookies for a seasonal twist!

Salted Caramel Cookie Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need for these delightful treats!

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability to the cookies; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
Baking Soda – Essential for a light, airy texture; do not substitute.
Salt – Balances the sweetness of the caramel; use kosher salt for the best flavor.
Unsalted Butter – The base for rich flavor and texture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and a crisp texture; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic option.
Brown Sugar – Delivers moisture and a deeper caramel flavor; light or dark brown sugar works interchangeably.
Large Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and provide moisture; room temperature eggs mix in more smoothly.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.

For the Add-ins

Caramel Chips – Create gooey pockets of caramel in each cookie; chopped soft caramels can be a delightful homemade substitute.
Chocolate Chips (optional) – Add a rich depth of flavor; choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate, or omit for a simpler cookie.

For the Finishing Touch

Flaky Sea Salt – Sprinkled on top before baking to enhance the sweet-and-salty contrast; Maldon sea salt works beautifully.

Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, you’re just a step away from baking these indulgent salted caramel cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your cookie adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This ensures your Salted Caramel Cookies will bake evenly and release effortlessly after cooling.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix is essential for structure and texture in your salted caramel cookies. Make sure there are no lumps, then set it aside as you move along to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup of brown sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy. This step creates a delightful base for your salted caramel cookie dough, adding richness and sweetness.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla extract. This step enriches the flavor of your salted caramel cookies, making the dough decadently fragrant and ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this helps maintain the chewy texture of the salted caramel cookies. Once the dough comes together, it’s time to fold in the delicious mix-ins.

Step 6: Fold in the Caramel and Chocolate Chips
Using a spatula, gently fold in 1 cup of caramel chips and, if desired, ½ cup of chocolate chips. This will create delightful pockets of gooey caramel throughout your cookies. Ensure they are evenly distributed for that perfect sweet-and-salty bite in every cookie.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This allows room for the salted caramel cookies to spread as they bake, resulting in perfectly shaped treats with great texture.

Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Before sliding the cookie sheets into the oven, sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt. This final touch enhances the decadent sweet-and-salty flavor profile of your salted caramel cookies, making them truly irresistible.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should turn golden brown while the centers remain slightly soft. This visual cue ensures your cookies will have that perfect chewy texture.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring to a wire rack. Let your Salted Caramel Cookies cool completely before serving and revel in their warm, gooey goodness!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Butter Temperature: Use softened butter for the best texture. If browning, let it cool before mixing into the dough for deeper flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough until just combined to prevent tough cookies. This keeps your salted caramel cookies delightfully chewy.
Spacing Matters: Ensure cookies are spaced 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to prevent merging. Proper spacing ensures each cookie bakes evenly and maintains its shape.
Baking Time Variations: Adjust baking time as needed based on cookie size. Keep an eye on edges when baking to achieve the perfect golden-brown color.
Flaky Sea Salt: Use flaky sea salt as a finishing touch, sprinkling it just before baking. This enhances the sweet-and-salty experience that makes these cookies so delicious.

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

Salted Caramel Cookie Variations

Feel free to make these salted caramel cookies your own with a few simple twists that cater to your flavor preferences!

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of toasted pecans for a crunchy texture that beautifully complements the gooey caramel. The added depth of flavor makes each bite even more satisfying.
Chocolate Indulgence: Swap out some flour for cocoa powder or mix in chocolate chips for decadent chocolatey goodness. Each bite will have rich, melty spots of chocolate that elevate this classic treat.
Spice It Up: Introduce warmth with cinnamon or a hint of espresso powder. This subtle addition can bring out the sweetness in the caramel, creating an unexpected layer of flavor.
Ice Cream Sandwich: Sandwich two cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top dessert. The combination of warm cookie and cold ice cream is pure bliss.
Coconut Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of shredded coconut for a tropical flair. This will give your cookies a delightful chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the caramel.
Fruit Infusion: Mix in dried cherries or cranberries for a tart surprise. The sweet, tangy bite pairs perfectly with the buttery caramel, adding a delicious twist.
Savory Touch: Experiment with a pinch of bacon bits to the dough for a salty, savory crunch that contrasts the sweet caramel, delivering an unforgettable taste experience.

Ready to expand your cookie repertoire even further? Be sure to try my Greek Yogurt Cookie for a healthier spin or dive into a slice of Salted Honey Pie for a sweet treat that dazzles!

What to Serve with Ultimate Salted Caramel Cookies

The perfect treat to accompany your evenings, these cookies are truly a delight to enjoy with simple, complimentary sides.

Cold Glass of Milk: A classic pairing, the creamy texture of milk beautifully balances the sweet-and-salty flair of the cookies. The milky richness complements each gooey bite.
Rich Espresso: Enhance your cookie experience with a bold shot of espresso. The coffee’s bitterness accentuates the caramel flavor while providing an energizing pick-me-up.
Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae: Try sandwiching two cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. This indulgent treat contrasts hot and cold, sweet and salty for a dessert moment to remember.
Fresh Berries: Lighten your dessert table with a handful of fresh raspberries or strawberries. Their tartness provides a pleasant contrast to the rich caramel flavor, brightening every bite.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: Elevate your salted caramel cookies by drizzling them with dark chocolate. This adds a luxurious touch and deepens the flavor profile for an even more decadent treat.
Sparkling Water: Refresh with a glass of sparkling water. The bubbles cleanse your palate, letting you truly savor the flavors of your cookies after each delicious bite.

Whichever pairing you choose, these ultimate salted caramel cookies will surely sing on your taste buds and create sweet memories with every delightful indulgence!

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. Alternatively, for longer storage, scoop and freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months – just thaw before baking. To keep the cookies as delicious as the day they were made, avoid over-mixing once the dry ingredients are incorporated, which helps maintain their chewy texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the chilled or frozen dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, sprinkle with flaky sea salt, and bake as instructed. Enjoy bakery-fresh cookies with minimal effort!

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for these cookies?
Absolutely! When picking your ingredients, opt for fresh, high-quality ones. For the butter, make sure it’s unsalted and softened; it should yield to pressure but not be melted. Look for caramel chips that are soft and smooth, and check your eggs to ensure they’re at room temperature for easy mixing.

What is the best way to store these salted caramel cookies?
I recommend storing your salted caramel cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them deliciously soft and fresh. If you live in a warm climate, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks. Just be sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Can I freeze the cookie dough? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing cookie dough is a fantastic option. Scoop out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the balls of dough to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight or bake them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much during baking?
Very! If your cookies spread excessively, it might be due to the butter being too warm or not pre-chilling the dough. To troubleshoot, try chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help firm it up and minimize spreading. Additionally, be cautious not to overbeat the butter and sugar mixture, as this can incorporate too much air, leading to spreading.

Are these salted caramel cookies safe for those with dietary restrictions?
Ensure to consider everyone’s needs! For gluten-free options, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Those with dairy allergies can use non-dairy butter and skip the caramel chips or replace them with dairy-free options. Always remember to check labels for hidden allergens and be mindful of cross-contamination if needed.

Can I add additional mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Of course! The more the merrier! You can definitely customize your salted caramel cookies by adding ½ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch, or replace part of the flour with cocoa powder for a chocolate-y twist. Just make sure to keep the overall balance of wet to dry ingredients in check for optimal texture.