Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies

Name: Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped; Sea salt for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Indulge in these decadent Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies that combine rich chocolate with a hint of salty sweetness.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-21T08:11:04.986Z

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie. With a gooey caramel center and a sprinkle of sea salt, they're perfect for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with a sweet and salty caramel center
Chewy texture that balances crisp edges with a soft, gooey middle
Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a personal treat

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a masterful blend of flavors that will satisfy anyone with a sweet tooth. The rich, dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweet, creamy caramel, creating a delightful contrast that keeps you coming back for more. The addition of sea salt elevates the flavor profile, enhancing the sweetness while adding a sophisticated twist. Each bite is a harmonious experience that is sure to impress your family and friends.

This cookie recipe is not just about taste; it also delivers on texture. The combination of chewy, gooey caramel and soft, warm chocolate creates a delightful mouthfeel that is hard to resist. The crisp edges provide a satisfying crunch, while the center remains soft and luscious. This delightful contrast in textures makes each cookie a unique treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results when baking these cookies, ensure that your butter is softened to room temperature. This allows for better incorporation with the sugars, leading to a fluffy cookie dough. Additionally, avoid overmixing the dough once the dry ingredients are added; mixing just until combined helps maintain the cookies' chewy texture.

When forming your cookies, don’t be afraid to be generous with the caramel filling. A well-sealed caramel center is crucial, as it melts during baking and creates that gooey goodness that defines these cookies. If you find that your dough is too sticky, chilling it for about 30 minutes can make it easier to handle.

Serving and Storing Your Cookies

These Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are perfect for serving at gatherings or as a special treat for yourself. They pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee, making them a delightful snack at any time of the day. Consider placing them in a decorative tin or box for a lovely gift option for friends and family.

If you have leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week, but we recommend enjoying them within the first few days for the best texture and flavor. You can also freeze the unbaked cookie dough for later use; simply scoop the dough, freeze it on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake them fresh whenever you're ready for a treat!

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
Sea salt for sprinkling

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.

Form the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, drop a tablespoon of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Make an indentation in the center of each cookie and place a caramel candy inside. Cover with an additional tablespoon of dough to seal the caramel.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before sprinkling with sea salt.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies warm or let them cool completely before storing!

Ingredient Substitutions

While this recipe calls for semi-sweet chocolate chips, feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preference. You can also swap out caramel candies for homemade caramel or even chocolate-covered caramel for an extra indulgent twist.

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your baking soda is also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the deliciousness of these salted caramel chocolate cookies without any dietary restrictions!

Variations to Try

Get creative with your cookies by adding nuts such as chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. You could also incorporate a splash of espresso powder into the dough to give the chocolate an extra depth of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try mixing in some crushed pretzels for a sweet and salty combination that’s out of this world.

Another fun variation is to drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or to dip half of the cookie in chocolate for an extra layer of decadence. These small changes can completely transform the cookie while keeping the core recipe intact.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce, but the texture may be different.

→ How should I store the cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What if I don’t have baking soda?

You can substitute baking powder, but the cookies may not rise as much.