Easy Salted Caramel Cookies

Every time I whip up a batch of Easy Salted Caramel Cookies, I'm transported back to my childhood kitchen, where the sweet aroma of freshly baked treats filled the air. My mom would often let me sneak a spoonful of dough, and I can still remember that buttery taste combined with the hint of caramel. It felt like magic to mix simple ingredients and create something so delightful. These cookies have become a family favorite, perfect for cozy gatherings or just a quiet evening at home with a cup of tea.

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the warmth of freshly baked cookies. The Easy Salted Caramel Cookies bring a touch of sweetness and a pinch of salt that makes them utterly irresistible. They're a perfect treat for fall get-togethers or even as a simple indulgence after a long day. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe close at hand!

Why You'll Love "Easy Salted Caramel Cookies"

• Quick prep and bake time-ready in just 30 minutes!
• Simple ingredients that you probably already have at home.
• A crowd-pleaser that's perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
• These cookies are wonderfully soft and chewy with a delightful caramel swirl.
• Freezer-friendly-make a double batch and save some for later!

Ingredients You'll Need

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt (plus extra for topping)
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened (I love using a good quality brand like Kerrygold for rich flavor)
• ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (make sure it's at room temperature for better mixing)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (again, softened)
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and get that perfect golden edge.
2. While the oven is heating up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This little trick prevents the cookies from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!

Make the Cookie Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt. This is your dry mix, and whisking helps to incorporate everything evenly.
2. In another bowl, beat together ¾ cup softened unsalted butter, ¾ cup packed light brown sugar, and ¼ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is creamy and fluffy-about 2-3 minutes. This is where the magic begins!
3. Add in the 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mix. Keep mixing until everything is combined and smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients you whisked together earlier into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined. Don't worry if it looks a bit crumbly at first-keep mixing, and it will come together beautifully!

Prepare the Salted Caramel

1. In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup heavy cream, ¼ cup unsalted butter, ⅓ cup light brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon flaky sea salt.
2. Heat this mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until it's smooth and slightly thickened. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil!
3. Once it's done, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a couple of minutes. You want it to be pourable but not super hot when you mix it into the dough.

Combine and Bake

1. Now comes the fun part! Gently fold the prepared salted caramel into your cookie dough. The swirls should be generous but not completely mixed in - you want those beautiful marbled patterns!
2. Using a cookie scoop or a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each cookie since they'll spread a little.
3. Before you pop them in the oven, sprinkle a touch of extra flaky sea salt on top of each cookie. This little sprinkle adds that gourmet touch!
4. Bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look just set. They might seem a little soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
5. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them stay chewy and delicious!

Variations

• For a chocolate twist, add 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough before baking.
• Try using maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Make them gluten-free by substituting with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• For a seasonal touch, mix in pumpkin spice for a fall-inspired cookie.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

These Easy Salted Caramel Cookies are best served warm, fresh out of the oven. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert or enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea. Trust me, you won't be able to stop at just one!

Storage

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Helpful Notes

• For a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• If you don't have cornstarch, you can replace it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour.
• Feel free to add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for a richer flavor.
• Using sea salt flakes on top will elevate the cookie's flavor with a gourmet touch.
• These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated for a few seconds in the microwave for that just-baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the Easy Salted Caramel Cookies?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze beautifully. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months.

What can I substitute for the butter?

If you want to substitute the butter, you can use a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Just make sure it's softened for easy mixing!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular all-purpose flour. This way, you can still enjoy the deliciousness without the gluten!

Final Thoughts

I can't wait for you to try these Easy Salted Caramel Cookies! They're sure to become a delightful addition to your baking repertoire. Each bite is a delicious blend of buttery cookie and sweet caramel, topped with that perfect hint of salt-it's simply irresistible! So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite apron, and dive into this fun recipe. Remember, the kitchen is where love is baked, and these cookies are a testament to that. Enjoy the process, share them with your loved ones, and let the sweet aroma fill your home. Happy baking!