Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and salty with these Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies. Each bite is a delightful mix of rich chocolate and gooey caramel, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for an irresistible treat.

Marianne Hughes

Created by

Marianne Hughes

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:21:02.035Z

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of caramel. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Decadent chocolate flavor enhanced by a touch of sea salt
  • Gooey caramel center that provides a delightful surprise
  • Easy to make and perfect for any gathering

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies offer a unique flavor profile that delights the palate. The combination of rich chocolate and sweet caramel creates a harmonious balance that is simply irresistible. When you take a bite, the initial sweetness is complemented by a hint of salt, enhancing the overall taste experience. This careful balance makes these cookies a standout treat for any occasion, whether you're celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet craving.

The use of flaky sea salt not only adds a touch of elegance to the cookies but also elevates the flavors. As the cookies bake, the salt enhances the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel, making each bite a delightful surprise. This unexpected twist keeps your taste buds engaged, ensuring that you’ll be reaching for another cookie before you know it!

Easy Steps for Baking Success

Baking these cookies is a breeze, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. The creaming method used for the butter and sugars creates a light and fluffy dough that ensures your cookies will be soft and chewy. Plus, the addition of caramel candies provides a gooey center that is sure to impress your family and friends.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adjusted to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate chips, such as dark or milk chocolate. You can even add nuts or other mix-ins for a personal touch. The versatility of this recipe means that you can customize it to your liking while still enjoying that delightful salted caramel flavor.

Storing and Serving Tips

Once baked, these Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies can be stored in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They will stay delicious for up to a week, although they are often devoured much sooner! If you want to keep them for an extended period, consider freezing them. Simply place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, and they can last up to three months. When you're ready to indulge, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.

These cookies are perfect for sharing! Pack them in a decorative box for a thoughtful gift, or serve them at your next gathering. Pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. The delightful blend of flavors and textures makes them a favorite among both kids and adults alike, ensuring they will be a hit at any event.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
  • Flaky sea salt for topping

Make sure you have everything ready before moving on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious cookies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture until well blended.

Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Form the Cookies

Scoop a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a caramel candy in the center and wrap the dough around it to form a ball. Repeat with remaining dough.

Bake

Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Add Sea Salt

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies a bit healthier, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will add a nutty flavor and increase the nutritional value of your cookies without sacrificing taste. Alternatively, for a gluten-free version, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that works well in baking.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can also use dairy-free butter and chocolate chips to make this recipe vegan-friendly. The caramel candies can be replaced with dairy-free alternatives, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious cookies. Just ensure you check the labels to find suitable options that align with your dietary needs.

Pairing Suggestions

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies pair wonderfully with a wide variety of beverages. For a classic combination, serve them with a tall glass of cold milk, which complements the rich chocolate and sweet caramel perfectly. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing them with a cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee enhances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.

For a festive twist, you can serve these cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The warmth of the cookies combined with the cold, creamy ice cream creates an indulgent dessert that is sure to impress. Top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or additional caramel for an over-the-top treat that your guests will love.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of candies?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce by placing a teaspoon in the center of the cookie before baking.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookie balls. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, and then transfer to a freezer bag.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.

Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Indulge in the perfect combination of sweet and salty with these Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies. Each bite is a delightful mix of rich chocolate and gooey caramel, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for an irresistible treat.

Prep Time20 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time30 minutes

Created by: Marianne Hughes

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  4. 2 large eggs
  5. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  6. 3 cups all-purpose flour
  7. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
  9. 1 cup chocolate chips
  10. 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
  11. Flaky sea salt for topping

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the creamed mixture until well blended.

Step 04

Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 05

Scoop a tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a caramel candy in the center and wrap the dough around it to form a ball. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 06

Place the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 07

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 200 kcal
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg
  • Sodium: 100mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 15g
  • Protein: 2g