The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich chocolate and sweet caramel in every bite. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration. With their chewy texture and hints of vanilla, they stand out among traditional cookies and are sure to impress your friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of salted caramel and dark chocolate creates a rich, indulgent taste.
• No Dough Resting Required: You can whip up these cookies in no time without waiting for the dough to rest.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a party, holiday, or just because, these cookies will be a hit.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or swap in different types of chocolate for variety.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools! Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: This will ensure even baking and easy transfer of cookies from the oven to the cooling rack.

Ingredients

To make The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

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 the Hard Caramel

Start by making your hard caramel. Follow your preferred method for creating a quick batch of hard caramel. Set aside once cooled.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.

Step 3: Mix Sugars and Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar and granulated sugar with the room temperature butter. Use a spatula to mix until creamy.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the real vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and all-purpose flour. Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Caramel

Gently fold in the chopped dark chocolate and pieces of hard caramel into your cookie dough until evenly distributed.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheet

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet about two inches apart.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.

Step 9: Add Finishing Touches

Once out of the oven, sprinkle sea salt flakes on top while still warm if desired. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Enjoy these delicious treats fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual snack or a festive celebration. Here are some delightful serving ideas to enhance your experience.

Pair with Milk

• A classic choice, cold milk complements the sweetness of the cookies and balances the richness of chocolate and caramel.

Serve Warm

• Enjoy the cookies fresh out of the oven. The warm caramel and gooey chocolate create an irresistible treat.

Add a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Place a cookie on top of a scoop of vanilla or salted caramel ice cream for a decadent dessert that combines textures and flavors.

Create a Cookie Sandwich

• Spread your favorite nut butter or frosting between two cookies for a fun and indulgent cookie sandwich.

Drizzle with Additional Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling extra caramel sauce over the top before serving. This adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Garnish with Sea Salt Flakes

• Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top just before serving to elevate the flavor and add a gourmet touch to your cookies.

How to Perfect The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfecting these cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve cookie perfection.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily, creating a smoother dough.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of chewy ones.

• Chill Your Dough Briefly: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can improve texture and prevent spreading during baking.

• Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate for better taste. It enhances the overall flavor profile of your cookies.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden around the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Let Them Cool on the Baking Sheet: Allowing cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes helps them set up perfectly without becoming too hard.

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

Pairing side dishes with these delightful cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad adds freshness that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Coffee or Espresso
   Rich coffee complements the flavors in chocolate chip cookies, making it an excellent pairing for afternoon snacking.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy contrast that pairs well with chewy textures.

4. Cheese Platter
   A small selection of cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, can create an interesting flavor combination alongside sweet treats.

5. Nut Mix
   A mix of nuts provides crunch and protein, creating a savory-sweet balance when enjoyed alongside cookies.

6. Chocolate Fondue
   Melted chocolate for dipping fruits or marshmallows offers an interactive dessert experience that complements your cookies beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect cookies can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
• Skipping the caramel step: The hard caramel adds essential flavor and texture; don’t skip it! Follow the instructions closely.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Gently fold in chocolate and caramel bits.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate flour measurement. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Ignoring baking times: Ovens vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour before transferring them to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies:

How do I make the hard caramel?

To make the hard caramel, melt sugar in a pan over medium heat until golden brown. Pour onto parchment paper and let cool before breaking into pieces.

Can I use different types of chocolate?

Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of dark chocolate for a different taste.

What makes these cookies chewy?

The combination of light brown sugar, melted butter, and the right baking time gives these cookies their delightful chewiness.

Can I add nuts to The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Yes! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add extra crunch and flavor. Just fold them into the dough along with the chocolate and caramel.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with an additional 12 minutes for baking, making it quick and easy!

Final Thoughts

The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: About 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful experience of The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies. These cookies feature a perfect balance of rich dark chocolate and sweet salted caramel, creating a chewy texture that will leave you craving more. Ideal for any occasion—from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations—these cookies are sure to impress your guests. With minimal cleanup and no need for dough resting, you can whip up a batch quickly and enjoy them warm from the oven or as part of a dessert spread. Customize with your favorite nuts or chocolate varieties to make them uniquely yours!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Prepare the hard caramel using your preferred method; set aside once cooled.
2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, and room temperature butter until creamy.
4. Mix in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk together baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and flour; gradually add to wet ingredients until just combined.
6. Fold in dark chocolate and caramel pieces.
7. Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them two inches apart.
8. Bake for approximately 12 minutes until edges are golden; centers may look slightly underbaked.
9. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top if desired; cool on wire racks.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg