Easy Salted Caramel Cookies

There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of buttery, chewy cookies and rich, golden caramel, balanced perfectly with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. It’s that contrast—sweet and salty, crisp and gooey—that makes every bite of these Easy Salted Caramel Cookies an unforgettable experience.

Imagine pulling a tray from the oven, the warm caramel pockets melting into the soft, golden dough, the scent of brown sugar and vanilla filling your kitchen. These cookies are simple to make yet indulgent enough to impress, whether you’re baking for a cozy evening treat or sharing them as a heartfelt gift.

What makes them special? A chewy center, lightly crisp edges, and just the right touch of salt to enhance the deep caramel notes. This recipe comes together effortlessly with pantry staples, making it your go-to for moments when you crave something deliciously comforting.

Ready to bake up a batch of pure indulgence? Let’s get started.

Ingredients for Easy Salted Caramel Cookies

The magic of these Salted Caramel Cookies lies in their balance—buttery, golden dough, rich caramel pockets, and a touch of flaky sea salt to enhance the sweetness. With simple pantry staples and a few indulgent additions, you’ll create cookies that are soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible.

Pro Tip: For a deeper caramel flavor, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar—it adds a richer, more molasses-like sweetness.

These simple yet indulgent ingredients come together to create cookies that are chewy, buttery, and filled with melty caramel goodness. Now, let’s move on to the baking process!

How to Make Easy Salted Caramel Cookies

Baking these Salted Caramel Cookies is a simple yet rewarding process. The key is to create a soft, chewy dough with rich caramel pockets that melt into every bite. Follow these steps to achieve perfectly golden cookies with a touch of sea salt to balance the sweetness.

1. Prepare Your Ingredients & Equipment

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Bring butter, eggs, and vanilla to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Measure and sift the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt) to ensure even distribution.

Pro Tip: Using room-temperature ingredients helps the dough mix evenly, preventing overworking and ensuring a soft texture.

2. Cream the Butter & Sugars

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.

Why It Works: Creaming butter and sugar properly creates tiny air pockets in the dough, resulting in a lighter, chewier cookie.

3. Combine the Dry & Wet Ingredients

• Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing.
• Fold in chopped caramel candies and caramel chips using a silicone spatula to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.

Pro Tip: Overmixing the dough develops too much gluten, which can make the cookies tough. Mix only until combined.

4. Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended!)

• Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
• Chilling helps the flavors develop and ensures thicker cookies that don’t overspread during baking.

Short on time? You can bake immediately, but chilled dough yields a deeper caramelized flavor and a better texture.

5. Shape & Bake

• Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain slightly soft.
• Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance the flavor contrast.

Pro Tip: The cookies will continue to set as they cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

With each bite, you’ll experience buttery dough, melty caramel, and a perfect touch of sea salt, a combination that’s simply irresistible. Now, let them cool slightly (if you can wait!) and enjoy warmth for the ultimate cookie experience. 

Essential Equipment for Baking Perfect Salted Caramel Cookies

A great recipe starts with the right tools, they make the process easier, ensure consistent results, and help you achieve that ideal chewy, caramelized texture. Below are my top recommendations, along with some of the best Amazon baking essentials to upgrade your kitchen setup.

Mixing & Measuring Essentials

• Mixing Bowls – A sturdy non-slip set makes combining ingredients effortless. 
• Measuring Cups & Spoons – Precision is key! A stainless steel set ensures accurate measurements. Find my favorite measuring tools here

Pro Tip: For perfectly measured flour, use the spoon-and-level method instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid dense cookies.

Baking Tools for the Perfect Texture

• Electric Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer – Creaming butter and sugar properly creates a light and chewy cookie texture. Check out top-rated mixers here
• Silicone Spatula – Ideal for folding in caramel chips without overmixing the dough. Find a high-quality set 

Why Does It Matters? Overmixing develops too much gluten, making cookies tough. A flexible spatula helps you mix gently and evenly.

Baking & Cooling Must-Haves

• Baking Sheet – A high-quality, non-stick baking tray ensures even baking and perfect golden edges. 
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless. Find top-rated parchment paper & mats here
• Cooling Rack – Helps cookies cool evenly while maintaining chewy centers. See my go-to cooling rack

Pro Tip: Use light-colored baking sheets for even browning. Dark sheets absorb more heat, leading to over-baked cookies.

Specialty Tools for Caramel Perfection

• Cookie Scoop – Ensures uniform cookies that bake evenly. Check out my favorite cookie scoop here
• Flaky Sea Salt – A finishing sprinkle enhances the flavor contrast. Buy the best flaky sea salt for baking

Upgrade Your Baking Experience!

Using the right tools not only makes baking easier but also helps you achieve professional quality cookies at home. Want consistent, bakery-style Salted Caramel Cookies every time? Invest in these Amazon baking essentials and elevate your skills today!

Why You’ll Love These Salted Caramel Cookies

Baking is about pleasure, precision, and little moments of indulgence. These Salted Caramel Cookies are the perfect balance of buttery richness, deep caramel notes, and a hint of sea salt that enhances every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, here’s why this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.

Key Benefits

• Perfect Texture – Crisp edges with a soft, chewy center, just as the best cookies should be.
• Rich, Buttery Caramel Flavor – Thanks to brown sugar, caramel chips, and vanilla, each bite is layered with warmth and sweetness.
• Sweet & Salty Contrast – A sprinkle of flaky sea salt balances the sweetness, making these cookies irresistibly addictive.
• Easy to Make, Foolproof Results – No complicated techniques—just simple step-by-step instructions for success every time.
• Versatile & Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for gifting, holiday baking, or an everyday treat, these cookies never disappoint.

Pro Tip: For an extra caramel boost, drizzle warm cookies with homemade salted caramel sauce before serving.

What Makes These Cookies Special?

The magic of these cookies lies in the quality of ingredients and the technique:

• A mix of brown and granulated sugar creates a crisp exterior while keeping the center soft.
• The combination of caramel chips and chopped caramel pieces ensures gooey, melty pockets in every bite.
• Chilling the dough allows flavors to develop and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.

These cookies are more than just a sweet treat—they’re an experience in every bite. Ready to bake up a batch of pure indulgence?

Pro Tips & Delicious Variations

Baking is a blend of precision and creativity, and these Salted Caramel Cookies are no exception. With the right techniques, you can take them from simply delicious to bakery-level perfection. Whether you love a classic version or want to experiment with flavors, these tips and variations will ensure each bite is as indulgent as possible.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Use High-Quality Caramel – Opt for soft, chewy caramel candies rather than hard caramel to ensure gooey pockets in every bite.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough – Once you add the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and prevent toughness.
• Chill the Dough for Better Texture – Letting the dough rest for at least 30 minutes deepens the caramel notes and prevents overspreading during baking.
• Slightly Underbaked for Soft Centers – Remove cookies from the oven when they still look slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.
• Sprinkle Sea Salt Right After Baking – The warmth helps the flakes stick, enhancing the contrast between sweet caramel and delicate saltiness.

Pro Tip: Love an extra-decadent cookie? Press a caramel-filled chocolate square into the center of each warm cookie for a melty surprise!

Creative Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Salted Caramel Cookie, why not explore new flavors?

• Double Chocolate Caramel – Swap ½ cup of flour for cocoa powder and add dark chocolate chunks for a deep, intense flavor.
• Nutty Caramel Crunch – Stir in ½ cup of toasted pecans or hazelnuts for added texture and warmth.
• Espresso Caramel – Add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough for a subtle coffee note that complements the caramel beautifully.
• Coconut Caramel Bliss – Fold in ¼ cup shredded coconut for a chewy, tropical-inspired twist.
• Spiced Caramel Cookies – Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a unique balance of warmth and heat.

Pro Tip: Want fresh-baked cookies anytime? Freeze individual cookie dough balls and bake straight from the freezer when cravings hit!

With these pro techniques and creative twists, you can transform these cookies into your signature recipe. Which version will you try first?

How to Serve & Enjoy Salted Caramel Cookies

The moment these Salted Caramel Cookies come out of the oven, their aroma fills the air with notes of buttery caramel, warm vanilla, and golden brown sugar. But the way you serve them can take the experience to an entirely new level. Here’s how to make every bite even more indulgent.

Best Ways to Serve

• Warm & Gooey – The ultimate way to enjoy these cookies is fresh out of the oven, when the caramel is still molten, and the edges have the perfect crisp. Let them cool for 5 minutes before diving in.
• With a Glass of Milk – A classic pairing, where the creaminess of milk balances the deep caramel notes and enhances the chewiness.
• Alongside Coffee or Tea – Pair with a bold espresso, vanilla latte, or a fragrant Earl Grey tea for an indulgent afternoon treat.
• As a Cookie Sandwich – Spread a layer of vanilla bean ice cream or caramel buttercream between two cookies for an unforgettable dessert.
• Dipped in Chocolate – Elevate them by dipping half of each cookie in melted dark chocolate, then sprinkling with crushed nuts or extra sea salt.

Pro Tip: Want bakery-style presentation? Arrange the cookies on a wooden board, drizzle them with extra salted caramel sauce, and serve with fresh berries and whipped cream.

Best Occasions for Salted Caramel Cookies

These cookies are perfect for every celebration and cozy moment:

• Birthdays & Celebrations – Serve alongside cakes or plated desserts for an extra layer of indulgence.
• Homemade Gifts – Pack in aesthetic cookie boxes with parchment paper for a thoughtful, gourmet-style gift.
• Fall & Winter Treats – Enjoy with a spiced hot chocolate or pumpkin latte for the ultimate seasonal comfort.
• Holiday Baking & Cookie Swaps – Their chewy, sweet, and salty combination makes them an instant crowd favorite.
• Bake Sales & Gatherings – A guaranteed hit—just double the batch, because they’ll disappear fast!

No matter the occasion, these Salted Caramel Cookies turn an ordinary moment into something special. How will you enjoy yours first?

Conclusion

Baking is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating something special, a treat that brings warmth and joy with every bite. And these Salted Caramel Cookies do just that. With their buttery richness, soft caramel pockets, and just the right touch of sea salt, they are the perfect balance of sweet and salty indulgence.

What makes them truly unforgettable? It’s the way the brown sugar deepens the flavor, the caramel melts into the dough, and the sprinkle of flaky salt enhances every bite. Whether you’re baking for a gathering, a thoughtful homemade gift, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

Now, it’s time to preheat the oven, gather your ingredients, and experience the magic of homemade Salted Caramel Cookies. Happy baking! 

Easy Salted Caramel Cookies

Salted Caramel Cookies are sweet, buttery, and perfectly chewy. This easy recipe will help you bake irresistible cookies in no time!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Chilling time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert, Snack

Cuisine American, French

Servings 24 cookies

Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups 280g All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• ½ teaspoon Baking powder
• ½ teaspoon Salt

Wet Ingredients:

• ¾ cup 170g Unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup 200g Brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup 100g Granulated sugar
• 1 Large egg
• 1 Egg yolk
• 2 teaspoons Pure vanilla extract

Mix-ins & Toppings:

• ¾ cup 150g Soft caramel candies, chopped
• ½ cup 85g Caramel chips
• ½ teaspoon Flaky sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

 

Prepare Your Ingredients & Equipment

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Bring butter, eggs, and vanilla to room temperature for smooth mixing.
• Measure and sift the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt) to ensure even distribution.
• Pro Tip: Using room-temperature ingredients helps the dough mix evenly, preventing overworking and ensuring a soft texture.

Cream the Butter & Sugars

• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed for 2–3 minutes until light and fluffy.
• Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
• Why It Works: Creaming butter and sugar properly creates tiny air pockets in the dough, resulting in a lighter, chewier cookie.

Combine the Dry & Wet Ingredients

• Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to avoid overmixing.
• Fold in chopped caramel candies and caramel chips using a silicone spatula to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
• Pro Tip: Overmixing the dough develops too much gluten, which can make the cookies tough. Mix only until combined.

Chill the Dough (Optional but Recommended!)

• Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours).
• Chilling helps the flavors develop and ensures thicker cookies that don’t overspread during baking.
• Short on time? You can bake immediately, but chilled dough yields a deeper caramelized flavor and a better texture.

Shape & Bake

• Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of dough and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
• Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain slightly soft.
• Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with flaky sea salt to enhance the flavor contrast.

Notes

Easy Salted Caramel Cookies – Recipe Recap

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes chilling time)
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: ~210 kcal per cookie

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 1 Cookie)

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Sugar: 18g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sodium: 120mg

Recipe Categories

• Course: Dessert, Snack
• Cuisine: American, French-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian
• Method: Baking
• Keyword: Salted caramel cookies, chewy cookies, caramel chip cookies, sweet and salty cookies, homemade cookies
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

Perfect for gifting, holiday baking, or an indulgent treat anytime!

 

Keyword caramel chip cookies, chewy cookies, homemade cookies, Salted caramel cookies, sweet and salty cookies

FAQs

Baking is a delightful craft, but even the simplest recipes can spark questions. To help you achieve perfectly chewy, golden Salted Caramel Cookies, here are answers to some common queries.

Now that you have all the tips, tricks, and answers, you’re ready to bake up the most indulgent Salted Caramel Cookies ever!