Name: Salted Caramel Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth with Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour blend (1-to-1 ratio) for gluten-free cookies.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (No direct substitute without altering texture.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Baking powder can be used as a substitute.); ½ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (Consider using flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Coconut oil can replace it for a dairy-free version.); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar (Dark brown sugar can intensify the caramel flavor.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Sugar alternatives like coconut sugar can be considered.); 1 large Egg (Use a 'flax egg' for a vegan option.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla works best for optimal taste.); ¼ cup Unsalted Butter (Must be unsalted for flavor control.); ⅓ cup Light Brown Sugar (Same substitution as above applies.); ½ cup Heavy Cream (Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.); to taste Flaky Sea Salt (Elevates the salted caramel flavor.)

Strolling through a cozy bakery, the air thick with sweet anticipation, I stumbled upon something truly tempting: warm cookies drizzled with luscious caramel and sprinkled with just a hint of salt. That unforgettable moment inspired my own version, and now, I can’t wait to share these Irresistible Easy Salted Caramel Cookies with you! They strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, ideal for satisfying your cravings or impressing guests at your next gathering. What’s even better? You can whip them up in under 45 minutes using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s dive into a comforting world of homemade treats—your taste buds will thank you! What’s your favorite snack to pair with cookies?

Why are Salted Caramel Cookies a Must Try?

Irresistible Flavor: The delightful blend of sweet caramel and a touch of sea salt creates a harmonious flavor profile that will keep you reaching for more.

Quick and Easy: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies without spending hours in the kitchen.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a casual snack or a fancy gathering, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s hard to find someone who doesn’t love cookies, especially when they’re gooey, chewy, and sweet!

Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, there’s no need for specialty items—just grab your usual supplies and get baking! Plus, if you’re in the mood for something different later, try our delicious Salted Caramel Chocolate bars for another sweet treat!

Salted Caramel Cookies Ingredients

• Get ready to create the most delicious Salted Caramel Cookies with these simple ingredients!

For the Cookies

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure. Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend (1-to-1 ratio) for gluten-free cookies.
Cornstarch – Softens the texture and prevents excess spreading. No direct substitute without altering texture.
Baking Soda – Helps cookies rise. You can use baking powder as a substitute, but it may slightly affect the texture.
Fine Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor balance. Consider using flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and tenderness. Coconut oil can replace it for a dairy-free version.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds depth and moisture to the cookies. Dark brown sugar can intensify the caramel flavor.
Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness. For a lower-calorie option, consider sugar alternatives like coconut sugar.
Large Egg – Binds all ingredients together. Use a “flax egg” (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor. Pure vanilla works best for an optimal taste.

For the Salted Caramel

Heavy Cream – A key component for smooth caramel. Substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
More Unsalted Butter (for caramel) – Ensures a smooth texture in the caramel. Must be unsalted for flavor control.
Light Brown Sugar (for caramel) – Sweetens the caramel beautifully. Same substitution as above applies.
Flaky Sea Salt (for caramel) – Elevates the salted caramel flavor.

Get ready to indulge in delightful flavors that will surely melt in your mouth!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Make the Salted Caramel
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter, then add ⅓ cup of light brown sugar. Whisk in ½ cup of heavy cream until the mixture thickens and bubbles gently, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in a hefty pinch of flaky sea salt. Let the caramel cool slightly while you prepare the cookie dough.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Make sure there are no lumps; this helps achieve soft, light Salted Caramel Cookies. Set this bowl aside as you move on to the next step, allowing the dry ingredients to blend perfectly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, beat together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Mix on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This adds air to the dough, enhancing the texture of your Salted Caramel Cookies, so ensure it’s properly creamed.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack in a large room-temperature egg and pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract into the creamed butter mixture. Mix on low speed until just incorporated, about 30 seconds. Be cautious not to over-mix at this stage, as maintaining a light dough is key for perfect cookies!

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Mix and Swirl Caramel
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined, approximately 1 minute. Then, gently fold in the warm salted caramel sauce using a spatula, ensuring it swirls through the dough but does not fully combine; the ribbons of caramel are what make each Salted Caramel Cookie a delightful treat.

Step 6: Portion and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy release. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look slightly underbaked but set.

Step 7: Finish and Cool
As soon as they come out of the oven, sprinkle the warm cookies with a touch of flaky sea salt for that perfect balance of sweet and salty. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them firm up while still maintaining their gooey centers, making your Salted Caramel Cookies irresistible!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a sealed bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their gooey centers and fresh-baked taste.

Thawing: Simply thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before reheating for the best results.

Salted Caramel Cookies Variations & Substitutions

Let your creativity shine with these simple twists to personalize your Salted Caramel Cookies!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (1-to-1 ratio) for a gluten-free cookie that’s just as delightful.
Vegan Option: Make these cookies vegan by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and dairy-free butter and coconut cream for the caramel. They’ll still taste heavenly!
Nutty Touch: Fold in a handful of toasted pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch and rich, nutty depth in every bite. It’s a lovely contrast to the gooey caramel!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a hint of warmth and a cozy flavor twist that’s perfect for fall or any festive gathering.
Boozy Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon or rum for a sophisticated spin on the traditional cookie. The slight kick elevates the flavor to new heights!
Minty Freshness: Add a few drops of peppermint extract to the cookie dough for a refreshing minty flavor. You’ll feel like you are indulging in a sweet after-dinner mint!
Chocolate Delight: Fold in chocolate chips or drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled cookies for a luscious chocolatey finish that will please any chocolate lover. For more chocolate goodness, try these Brown Butter Cookies!
Salt Variations: Experiment with different types of salt, such as smoked salt, for an unexpected flavor depth that adds a funky twist to the classic salted caramel experience.

Feel free to mix and match any of these options to create a batch of cookies that perfectly suits your taste buds. Happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Irresistible Easy Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can make your busy weeks a breeze! You can prepare the salted caramel up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. The cookie dough can also be made and chilled in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and add an additional minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy warm, gooey cookies with minimal effort, savoring that delightful sweet and salty flavor whenever the craving strikes!

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Cookies

Butter Softening: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature before creaming; this helps achieve the airy texture in your Salted Caramel Cookies.
Mixing Caution: Avoid over-mixing the dough after adding the flour; doing so can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears!
Caramel Temperature: Allow the caramel to cool slightly before folding it into the dough. This keeps the butter from melting and maintains the cookie’s structure.
Parchment Paper Use: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and evenly baked cookies. It’s a simple step that pays off!
Cooling Tip: Store your cooled cookies in a single layer to maintain their shape and softness; if stacking, use parchment paper between layers.

What to Serve with Irresistible Easy Salted Caramel Cookies

Baking these warm salted caramel cookies creates a delightful atmosphere perfect for sharing sweet moments with loved ones.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: A classic pairing that beautifully contrasts the warm, chewy cookies with a cool, creamy touch.
Espresso or Coffee: The rich, bold flavors enhance the cookies’ sweetness, making for a comforting afternoon treat.
Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness; their tartness balances the rich caramel perfectly.
Dark Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a simple drizzle adds sophistication and depth to every bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle extra caramel on top for unapologetic indulgence—because who could resist more caramel?
Chocolate Milkshake: This creamy, nostalgic drink pairs perfectly and turns your snack into a delightful dessert experience.
Cheese Plate: A selection of mild cheeses complements the cookie’s sweetness while adding savory notes for contrast.
Mint Tea: The freshness of mint tea offers a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavor of salted caramel.
Nutty Granola: Serve these cookies with a side of nutty granola for a satisfying crunch and added texture.
Coconut Macaroons: Pair with chewy macaroons to create a delightful cookie platter for your guests.

Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use room-temperature unsalted butter. This will help create that light and fluffy texture in your cookie dough. If you’re using eggs, ensure they are also at room temperature for better incorporation.

How should I store my Salted Caramel Cookies?
Keep your cookies stored in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain their soft and chewy goodness. If your cookies are layered, insert parchment paper between the layers to avoid sticking!

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Cookies?
Very! You can freeze your cookies for up to 3 months. To do so, first place them in a single layer on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag or an airtight container. For the best results, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before serving.

What if my cookies turn out too hard?
If you find your cookies are too hard, it’s likely due to over-mixing or over-baking. Make sure to mix the dough gently after adding the flour—stop as soon as it just comes together. Also, keep an eye on the baking time; they should look slightly underbaked in the center when you pull them out.

Are these cookies safe for those with common allergies?
While these Salted Caramel Cookies contain common allergens like eggs and gluten, you can make adjustments. Use a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan option and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend (1-to-1 ratio). Always check ingredient labels for allergens!

Is it necessary to use flaky sea salt?
While flaky sea salt is recommended for a delightful contrast, you can use kosher salt or even table salt if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember that table salt is more potent, so use it sparingly—about half the amount compared to flaky salt.