Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

Soft caramel snickerdoodles are the perfect treat for any occasion. With their chewy edges and a delightful caramel surprise in the center, these cookies offer a unique twist on the classic snickerdoodle. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress. Their warm spices and rich caramel flavor create an irresistible combination that makes them a standout dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of cinnamon and caramel creates a deliciously sweet experience.
• Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful chewiness from the edges to the gooey caramel inside.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for holidays, parties, or just because—you’ll find any reason to bake these!
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up these cookies effortlessly.
• Make-Ahead Option: The dough can be chilled for up to three days, making it easy to prepare in advance.

Tools and Preparation

To make your soft caramel snickerdoodles perfectly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes baking more efficient and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or handheld mixer: These make it easy to cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, ensuring a smooth cookie dough.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Using these ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking to the pan.

Ingredients

Soft caramel snickerdoodles with chewy edges and a sweet surprise inside.

Ingredients:
– 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (16 Tbsp; 226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 2/3 cup (135g) packed light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 12 soft caramels, cut in half
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

How to Make Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

Step 1: Whisk Dry Ingredients

Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl using a stand mixer or handheld mixer fitted with a paddle attachment:
1. Beat the unsalted butter on high speed until completely smooth and creamy—about 2 minutes.
2. Add granulated sugar and brown sugar; beat on medium-high speed until fluffy and light in color.
3. Mix in the eggs one at a time along with the vanilla extract on high speed. Scrape down sides as needed.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed:
1. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. The cookie dough will be thick.
2. Cover tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for about 1 hour or up to 3 days.

Step 4: Prepare Cookie Dough

Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator. If it has been longer than 3 hours:
1. Allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes for easier scooping.

Step 5: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for best results.

Step 6: Combine Topping Ingredients

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set this aside for rolling your cookies.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

For each cookie:
1. Scoop out a scant 2 tablespoons of cookie dough.
2. Break it in half; create a thumbprint in one half.
3. Place half of a caramel inside before topping it with the other half of dough.
4. Roll it into a smooth ball ensuring the caramel is fully enclosed.
5. Roll each ball in cinnamon-sugar topping before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in batches for about 11-13 minutes:
1. Cookies should be very lightly browned around the edges but look soft in the center when removed from oven.
2. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked soft caramel snickerdoodles!

How to Serve Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

Serving soft caramel snickerdoodles can elevate your dessert experience. These cookies not only taste great but also look appealing. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enjoy them.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair your soft caramel snickerdoodles with a cold glass of milk. The creamy texture complements the chewy cookie perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create a delicious ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor for a sweet treat that’s hard to resist.

Warm and Fresh

• Serve the cookies warm right out of the oven. This enhances the gooey caramel center and creates a comforting experience.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top of each cookie. This adds a light, fluffy texture that balances the sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• A drizzle of chocolate sauce over your snickerdoodles adds an extra layer of flavor and makes them look irresistible.

How to Perfect Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

Perfecting soft caramel snickerdoodles takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve cookie perfection every time.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring thick, chewy cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and butter allows for better mixing and texture in your snickerdoodles.

• Be Careful Not to Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them from the oven when they are still soft will result in chewier cookies.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like nuts or sea salt for added flavor contrast and crunch.

• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

Soft caramel snickerdoodles pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweetness. Here are some side dishes you might consider serving alongside:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing fruit salad can provide a light contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Chocolate Fondue
   Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their snickerdoodles in warm, melted chocolate for an indulgent treat.

3. Coffee or Espresso
   A cup of coffee or espresso provides a nice balance, enhancing the sweetness while offering a caffeine boost.

4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses can add savory notes that pair well with the sweet caramel flavors in your cookies.

5. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that contrasts nicely with soft caramel snickerdoodles.

6. Nut Mix
   A mix of nuts adds crunch and protein, making it a great counterbalance to the chewy texture of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making soft caramel snickerdoodles can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to be aware of.

• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough is crucial for texture. It helps the flavors meld and prevents cookies from spreading too much.
• Overbaking the cookies: Soft caramel snickerdoodles should look slightly underbaked when you take them out. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the mixing process and result in unevenly baked cookies. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature.
• Forgetting about hot spots in your oven: Every oven has its quirks. Rotate your baking sheets halfway through to ensure even baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store soft caramel snickerdoodles in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

• Place soft caramel snickerdoodles in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper.

Reheating Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm; be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covered, for a soft texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my soft caramel snickerdoodles extra chewy?

To enhance chewiness, consider using more brown sugar than granulated sugar. This adds moisture and creates a softer texture.

Can I use different types of caramel?

Absolutely! You can experiment with flavored caramels or even chocolate-covered caramels for varied tastes in your soft caramel snickerdoodles.

What is the best way to store leftover cookies?

The best way is to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or refrigerate them if you want them to last longer.

Can I freeze my dough before baking?

Yes! You can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just scoop and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a bag once solid.

Final Thoughts

Soft caramel snickerdoodles are not only delicious but also versatile. The combination of chewy edges with a gooey caramel center makes these cookies irresistible. Feel free to customize with different spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Try this recipe today and enjoy the sweet surprise with every bite!

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Soft Caramel Snickerdoodles

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful softness of caramel snickerdoodles, where classic flavors meet a gooey surprise. These cookies feature chewy edges and a luscious caramel center that will leave everyone wanting more. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or simply as an afternoon treat, these cookies are as easy to make as they are delicious. With warm cinnamon spices and rich caramel notes, each bite offers a unique blend of textures and tastes. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or paired with a scoop of ice cream, these soft caramel snickerdoodles are destined to become your new favorite dessert.

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Ingredients

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• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 12 soft caramels, cut in half
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients until combined; chill dough for at least 1 hour.
6. Scoop dough, insert half a caramel in the center, roll into balls, and coat in cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing on baking sheets.
7. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until edges are lightly browned but centers remain soft.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 13 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (32g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg