The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful treat that combines crunchy, chewy bits of caramel with rich chocolate in a soft vanilla cookie. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make. With no need for a candy thermometer and just one bowl required, you’ll find yourself whipping up a batch in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and no resting necessary, you can enjoy these cookies in under 30 minutes.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of salted caramel and dark chocolate creates an irresistible flavor that satisfies every sweet tooth.
• Versatile Delight: Ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy night in with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Customizable: Feel free to tweak the ingredients by adding nuts or your favorite types of chocolate to personalize each batch.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike, making them perfect for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents warping in the oven.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes cookie removal easy and minimizes cleanup.

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Ingredients

To create your batch of The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies, gather 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 Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Make the Hard Caramel

1. Follow the recipe for your 5-Minute Hard Caramel.
2. Allow it to cool slightly before using it in your cookie dough.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a mixing bowl, combine light brown sugar, unsalted butter, and granulated sugar. Mix until creamy.
2. Add in the real vanilla extract and room temperature eggs. Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

1. Sprinkle in baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and all-purpose flour gradually while mixing.
2. Stir until the dough forms without overmixing.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Caramel

Add the coarsely chopped dark chocolate and cooled hard caramel into the cookie dough. Gently fold them in without breaking up the caramel too much.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

1. Use a cookie scoop to place dollops of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Optionally sprinkle sea salt flakes on top for an extra touch.
3. Bake for about 12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.

Let your cookies cool slightly before enjoying this delicious treat! Now you have The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies ready to impress!

How to Serve The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These delightful cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple treat or a more elaborate dessert presentation, there are plenty of serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with cold milk creates a classic combination that enhances the cookie’s flavors and provides a comforting touch.

Warmed Up with Ice Cream

• Gently heat the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds and top them with your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a platter alongside other homemade treats, such as brownies or fruit tarts, for a delightful dessert spread at gatherings.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Add an extra layer of indulgence by drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top of each cookie before serving.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve the cookies alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or apples for a refreshing contrast to their rich flavors.

How to Perfect The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfecting these cookies is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to elevate your baking game.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Using precise measurements ensures consistent results and helps achieve the perfect texture in every cookie.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter and eggs to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better incorporation of air.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can develop gluten, leading to denser cookies instead of chewy ones.
• Experiment with Chocolate Varieties: Try using different types of chocolate, like semi-sweet or milk chocolate, to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

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

Serving side dishes can enhance your cookie experience. Here are some great options that pair perfectly with these chewy delights.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light yet satisfying side that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda, which provide a savory contrast to sweet caramel chocolate chip cookies.
4. Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa makes for a cozy drink pairing, perfect for enjoying alongside these decadent treats.
5. Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts offers crunch and saltiness that enhances the sweet and salty elements in the cookies.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy, nutritious pudding can act as a refreshing accompaniment that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cookies.
7. Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage like coffee or herbal tea makes an excellent pairing, enhancing the overall flavor experience while providing comfort.
8. Sliced Bananas with Honey: Sweet bananas drizzled with honey create an easy side dish that complements the chewy texture of the cookies nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cookies can be simple, but small mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients do not blend well, resulting in a dense cookie.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, making the cookies tough instead of chewy.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level your flour for accuracy. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Skipping the hard caramel step: Creating your own hard caramel adds flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; it enhances your cookies significantly.
• Baking at too high a temperature: Always preheat your oven and bake at the recommended temperature. Baking too hot can cause cookies to spread too quickly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies 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 cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet 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). Bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies chewy?

The combination of brown sugar and melted butter gives these cookies their delightful chewiness, while the added caramel creates pockets of sweetness.

Can I customize The Best Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, use different types of chocolate, or even include dried fruits for extra flavor.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Cookies will look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.

Final Thoughts

These cookies are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. The combination of chewy salted caramel and rich chocolate is hard to resist! Feel free to experiment with different mix-ins or toppings that suit your taste.