Description

There's something simply enchanting about the blend of sweet and salty that makes these Salted Caramel Cookies a favorite among cookie lovers. Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that offers the perfect balance of buttery richness, a delightful chewiness, and tantalizing salted caramel in every bite. These cookies bring together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a treat that is both indulgent and comforting at the same time.

Originating from the classic combination of cookies and caramel, this cookie recipe elevates the standard dessert experience. Each bite is a revelation, showcasing the complex flavors that unfold beautifully on the palate. The contrast of the sweet caramel and the flaky sea salt gives these cookies a gourmet edge that’s perfect for both casual snacking and special occasions.

Whether you’re baking these beauties for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon tea, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, you'll find that the preparation process is as enjoyable as the final product. The aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, creating a sense of warmth and togetherness. With easy-to-follow steps and readily available ingredients, even novice bakers can create a treat that looks and tastes like it came from a chic bakery. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the joy of baking these Salted Caramel Cookies!

Ingredients

• Dough:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• Filling:
• 1 cup Werther’s Chewy Caramels (or your favorite brand), unwrapped
• 2 tablespoons milk for melting
• Topping:
• Flaky sea salt, to taste

Preparation Method

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and are easy to remove once they're ready.

In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and fine sea salt. It’s crucial to thoroughly combine these dry ingredients, as this step helps ensure an even rise and perfect texture in your cookies.

Now, let’s move to the wet ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat these ingredients until the mixture is light and fluffy. The creaming process is essential; it incorporates air into the dough, helping to create a softer cookie texture.

Once your mixture looks airy and creamy, add in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well blended and smooth. Don’t rush this step; each ingredient needs to fully integrate for the best results.

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Do this in portions to avoid overwhelming the dough. You want to mix until just combined, ensuring you don’t overwork the dough, as this can lead to denser cookies. Look for a soft dough consistency, neither too sticky nor too dry.

Now, it’s shaping time! Take about 2 tablespoons of the dough and roll it into a ball the size of a golf ball. Place the dough balls onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave plenty of space between each ball. These cookies will spread a bit while baking, so give them room to breathe.

Here's the fun part! Using a buttered measuring cup or your thumb, make a slight indentation in the center of each dough ball. This little divot will hold your luscious caramel filling later on.

It's time to bake! Carefully slide the baking sheets into your preheated oven and let them bake for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’re looking for a golden edge, but they might seem slightly underdone when you take them out. This is normal as they continue to cook while cooling. Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes after removing them from the oven. This will help them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.

While the cookies cool, let’s prepare the delicious caramel filling. In a microwave-safe bowl, add the unwrapped Werther’s Chewy Caramels with 2 tablespoons of milk. Heat this in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until the caramels are melted and smooth. Always be patient and keep a close eye to prevent burning. Once melted, stir in a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance the flavor.

Now, take your cooled cookies and drizzle the melted caramel into the indentations on each cookie. Be generous but be careful not to overfill them, as you want the caramel to stay nestled in the center.

To finish off your masterpiece, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt on top of the caramel while it's still warm. This little touch not only looks beautiful but also adds that amazing salty contrast that elevates each bite.

Let the cookies sit for a bit, allowing the caramel to set before indulging in your creation. If you can resist, waiting until they are completely cooled will make for a better experience, but who can really wait?

Tips and Conclusion

For those who like to experiment, consider substituting the Werther's Chewy Caramels for dark chocolate or even a sweet fruit jam, creating a fun twist on the classic salted caramel cookie. You can also use a combination of white and dark chocolate chips for an added layer of decadence. Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though they are best enjoyed fresh within the first few days. If you’d like to make these cookies ahead of time, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Just roll the balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Afterward, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
The experience of baking these Salted Caramel Cookies is not just about creating a delicious treat; it's about bringing joy to your kitchen and embracing the art of baking. The delightful balance of flavors, the chewy texture alongside the sweet-salty finish, creates an indulgence that’s hard to resist.

As you savor each cookie, take a moment to appreciate the love and creativity that go into baking. It’s a journey of flavor and texture, one that you won’t soon forget. If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, explore our site for more fantastic treats, such as Spiced Pumpkin Cookies, Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, or perhaps a rich Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with friends and family; after all, good food is meant to be enjoyed with loved ones. Happy baking!