The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. With their rich flavors and chewy texture, these cookies combine the sweetness of caramel with rich chocolate chips. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, these cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, allowing you to enjoy fresh-baked goodness in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This one-bowl recipe makes baking a breeze without the need for complicated steps or tools.
• Deliciously Unique: The combination of chewy caramel bits and dark chocolate creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 36 cookies in this batch, they’re ideal for parties, potlucks, or simply sharing with friends and family.
• No Rest Time Required: You can bake these cookies immediately after mixing the dough—no waiting around!
• Customizable Topping: Add sea salt flakes on top for an extra salty kick that complements the sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best chewy salted caramel chocolate chip cookies, you’ll need some essential tools that make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining your ingredients easily without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking when lined with parchment paper.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper helps prevent your cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Crunchy, chewy bits of caramel and puddles of chocolate lace this vanilla-forward chocolate chip cookie! Aside from the extra step of making the hard caramel (which takes just minutes, no candy thermometer needed!), this is an easy, one-bowl recipe with no rest time for the dough!

For the Hard Caramel

• 1 batch 5-Minute Hard Caramel

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 1/2 cups (330 g) light brown sugar (packed)
• 16 tablespoons (226 g) unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoon (19 g) real vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 ¼ cups (439 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups (255 g) dark chocolate (coarsely chopped or chips)
• Sea salt flakes for the tops (optional)

How to Make The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Make the Hard Caramel

Make a batch of your 5-Minute Hard Caramel. Once it’s ready, let it cool slightly before cutting it into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
* The unsalted butter
* The light brown sugar
* The granulated sugar

Use an electric mixer or whisk to beat until creamy. Then add in:
* The real vanilla extract
* The eggs

Continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
* The baking powder
* The baking soda
* The sea salt
* The all-purpose flour

Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Caramel

Gently fold in:
* The dark chocolate chunks or chips
* The diced pieces of your prepared hard caramel

Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop dough onto prepared baking sheets spaced about two inches apart. Optionally sprinkle sea salt flakes on top of each cookie before baking.

Bake in preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Allow cooling slightly on sheets before transferring to wire racks. Enjoy your delicious homemade cookies!

How to Serve The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delicious cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be served in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, here are some serving suggestions to make your experience even sweeter.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the classic combination. The creamy texture complements the chewy caramel and chocolate perfectly.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with vanilla or caramel ice cream. The heat will melt the ice cream slightly, creating a gooey and indulgent dessert.

As a Snack on the Go

• Pack these cookies in individual bags for a tasty snack during road trips or school lunches. They are easy to transport and satisfy sweet cravings.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other treats like brownies or fruit. This makes for an inviting dessert table at gatherings.

For Coffee Lovers

• Enjoy these cookies with your favorite cup of coffee or espresso. The rich flavors of chocolate and caramel enhance the coffee experience beautifully.

How to Perfect The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve cookie perfection, consider these simple tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing, leading to a smoother dough.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps control spread during baking.
• Watch Your Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them when they are slightly underdone for that perfect chewy texture.
• Sprinkle Sea Salt on Top: A light sprinkle of sea salt before baking enhances the flavor of the caramel and chocolate, giving it a gourmet touch.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here’s a list of great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy contrast that still satisfies your sweet tooth.
3. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses, particularly creamy varieties, pairs well with sweet desserts like caramel chocolate chip cookies.
4. Chocolate Fondue
   Serve alongside melted chocolate for dipping other fruits or snacks, enhancing your chocolate experience.
5. Nut Mix
   A bowl of mixed nuts provides crunchiness and savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Coffee or Tea
   Offer brewed coffee or herbal tea as beverages that complement the flavors in your cookie while providing warmth and comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can lead to dense cookies. Always use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can create tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them chewy and soft.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Skipping Sea Salt Flakes: Forgetting to sprinkle sea salt on top takes away from the sweet-salty balance. A pinch of sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully.
• Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking at too high a temperature can burn the bottoms. Ensure your oven is calibrated and preheat properly before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Layer with parchment paper for easy separation.

Reheating The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm, but avoid overheating as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

Yes! You can substitute dark chocolate with milk or white chocolate chips based on your preference.

How do I make homemade caramel?

Follow a simple recipe using sugar and water, cooking until it reaches a golden color. Allow it to harden before chopping it into pieces for your cookies.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute light brown sugar with granulated sugar mixed with a bit of molasses or honey for similar flavor.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

Final Thoughts

These The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding nuts or different types of chocolate. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delightful combination of chewy caramel and rich chocolate!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 36 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies, where rich caramel mingles with luscious chocolate for an unforgettable treat. These cookies boast a perfectly chewy texture and are incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With no rest time needed, you can whip up a batch in no time, satisfying your sweet cravings instantly. The optional sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors beautifully, creating a gourmet touch that elevates this classic dessert to new heights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 batch 5-Minute Hard Caramel
• 1 ½ cups light brown sugar (packed)
• 16 tablespoons unsalted butter (room temperature)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons real vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups dark chocolate (coarsely chopped or chips)
• Sea salt flakes (optional for topping)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the hard caramel as per your recipe and let it cool slightly before cutting it into small pieces.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy. Add the vanilla extract and eggs; mix until fully incorporated.
4. In another bowl, whisk together baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and flour. Gradually combine with wet ingredients until just mixed.
5. Fold in dark chocolate and caramel pieces evenly throughout the dough.
6. Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Optionally top with sea salt flakes before baking.
7. Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden brown; allow cooling slightly on sheets before transferring to wire racks.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg