Chocolate Caramel Cookies

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Irresistible Chocolate Caramel Cookies: A Decadent Delight

If you’re a fan of the luscious combination of chocolate and caramel, these Chocolate Caramel Cookies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. With rich chocolate and gooey caramel encased in a soft, chewy cookie, this recipe offers a treat that’s indulgent yet easy to make. Whether you’re preparing these cookies for a party or treating yourself to a homemade dessert, this recipe will become a favorite among family and friends.

Why Chocolate and Caramel?

The pairing of chocolate and caramel is a classic, enjoyed by dessert lovers for centuries. The dark, rich flavor of chocolate beautifully complements the sweet, buttery caramel. Together, they create a balanced treat that’s both complex and delightful, especially when wrapped in a soft, chewy cookie!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and might already be in your pantry:

  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (90g) cocoa powder (unsweetened)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup caramel candies (cut into small pieces or use caramel chips)
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Ensure the caramel candies are cut into small pieces if using whole caramels. Set them aside for later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

  1. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Add in the eggs, one at a time, and mix until well incorporated.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Step 4: Add Caramel and Chocolate Chips

  1. Gently fold in the caramel pieces and chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

  1. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, form the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
  2. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. This will yield a perfectly chewy texture once cooled.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

  1. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
  2. Enjoy them warm for an extra gooey caramel center, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips for Perfect Chocolate Caramel Cookies

  • Chill the Dough: For thicker, bakery-style cookies, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
  • Choose the Right Caramel: Soft caramel candies or caramel chips work best, as they melt evenly. Avoid hard caramel candies which may not achieve the gooey consistency desired in the cookies.
  • Storage Tip: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer a warm, melty center, pop them in the microwave for about 5 seconds before enjoying.

Variations and Add-ins

  1. Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle a little sea salt on top of each cookie right before baking to enhance the caramel’s flavor and add a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
  2. Double Chocolate: For an extra chocolatey treat, add white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chunks to the dough along with the caramel.
  3. Nutty Twist: For a bit of crunch, fold in chopped pecans or walnuts with the caramel and chocolate chips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are not only delicious but incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for special occasions, holiday baking, or just a simple treat. The rich chocolate and gooey caramel flavors are a timeless duo that brings joy with every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.

These Chocolate Caramel Cookies will quickly become a favorite recipe in your collection. With their soft, chewy texture and rich flavors, they offer a comforting treat perfect for any season or occasion. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to the delicious harmony of chocolate and caramel. Happy baking!