Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Name: Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24.0
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup caramel bits; Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies, a delightful blend of rich chocolate and gooey caramel, perfectly balanced with a sprinkle of sea salt. These cookies are soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the edges, and offer a luxurious flavor that will elevate your holiday cookie tray. Perfect as a festive treat or a special gift, they are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-27T08:14:15.184Z

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies make an ideal addition to any holiday cookie tray. Their rich flavor profile of chocolate and caramel, combined with a hint of sea salt, transforms them into a gourmet delight. These cookies not only satisfy cravings but also add a touch of sophistication to your festive gatherings. Imagine serving them alongside traditional holiday favorites; their unique taste will surely leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Furthermore, the visual appeal of these cookies, with their glossy caramel and sprinkle of sea salt, makes them picture-perfect for sharing on social media. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your hand at cookies for the first time, this recipe provides a delightful challenge that yields spectacular results.

Customize Your Cookies

One of the fantastic aspects of these Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies is their versatility. You can easily tweak the recipe to cater to your preferences or dietary needs. For a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough before baking. If you want to ramp up the chocolate intensity, try swapping half of the chocolate chips for dark chocolate or using chocolate chunks instead.

Additionally, you can switch out the caramel bits for other fillings, such as peanut butter chips or white chocolate, to create different flavor profiles. This adaptability makes the cookies enjoyable year-round, not just during the holiday season.

Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in an airtight freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months.

When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain the melty caramel and chocolate texture that makes these cookies a true delight.

Ingredients

Cookie Base

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup caramel bits
Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in Chocolate and Caramel

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and caramel bits.

Scoop and Bake

Use a cookie scoop to drop heaping tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle each cookie with sea salt. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Adding a Twist

If you're looking to introduce a twist to the traditional salted caramel flavor, consider experimenting with different salts. Flavored salts, such as smoked sea salt or Himalayan pink salt, can add an unexpected depth to your cookies. The key is to sprinkle just the right amount; you want the salt to enhance, not overpower, the sweet notes.

Another fun variation is to incorporate spices into the cookie base. A touch of cinnamon or espresso powder can elevate the chocolate flavor, creating a more complex taste experience that can surprise and delight.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee can enhance your tasting experience. The creaminess of milk complements the richness of the chocolate, while coffee can accentuate the deeper notes of cocoa and caramel. For a more decadent treat, serve them à la mode with a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream.

These cookies can also make for a thoughtful gift. Just stack them in a decorative tin or box, add a ribbon, and share them with friends or family. Whether it’s for a holiday, a housewarming, or a simple gesture of appreciation, these cookies are sure to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought caramel?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you prefer for convenience.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.