If you’re craving the perfect balance of sweet and salty, this salted caramel cookie recipe delivers every time. With gooey caramel pockets, soft centers, and crisp edges, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies combine rich caramel flavor with a delicate sprinkle of sea salt, creating an irresistible contrast. This salted caramel cookie recipe is simple to follow, family-friendly, and perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers. You’ll get bakery-style cookies right from your own kitchen with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup caramel chips
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional)
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in caramel chips and optional chocolate chips.
- Scoop dough onto baking sheets, leaving space between each portion.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for that signature sweet-salty finish.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cookies cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Use high-quality caramel chips for better flavor.
- Slightly underbake for a softer, chewier texture.
- Swap chocolate chips with white chocolate or nuts if desired.
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary: Vegetarian
Notes
- Serve warm for the best gooey caramel texture.
- Pair with milk or coffee for a comforting treat.
- You can drizzle extra melted caramel on top for added richness.
Nutrition (Approximate per cookie)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 8g
FAQ
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, this salted caramel cookie recipe dough freezes well for up to 2 months.
Why add sea salt on top?
It enhances the caramel flavor and balances sweetness.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
How do I keep cookies soft?
Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread.
Can I skip chocolate chips?
Absolutely, the caramel flavor alone is delicious.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
Similar Recipes
Salted Caramel Cookie Recipe Perfect Sweet & Salty
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup caramel chips
- ½ cup chocolate chips optional
- ½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fold in caramel chips and optional chocolate chips.
- Scoop dough onto baking sheets, leaving space between each portion.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top for that signature sweet-salty finish.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Let cookies cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Serve warm for the best gooey caramel texture.
- Pair with milk or coffee for a comforting treat.
- You can drizzle extra melted caramel on top for added richness.
Conclusion
This salted caramel cookie recipe is the perfect blend of indulgent sweetness and a hint of saltiness. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again for any occasion.