Prepare your taste buds for a sweet and salty treat. With a soft, moist interior and a slightly crispy edge, these salted caramel chocolate chip cookies are not your regular cookies. They feature a delightful surprise in the form of a gooey caramel center, contrasting beautifully with the gentle crunch of sea salt and the richness of chocolate chips.
All the ingredients required for this recipe are fairly common and should be easily available in your pantry or at your local supermarket. The two components that might need special attention are the rolo candies and sea salt. Rolo candies are chocolate-coated caramels that will serve as the gooey center. If you can't find them, any chocolate-covered caramels should work. Sea salt is different from table salt as it has a coarser texture and a more potent flavor, which makes it perfect for a 'salted caramel' recipe.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
All-purpose flour: This will be the primary dry component of your cookies, giving them structure and body.
Baking soda: It is used to help the cookies rise and become soft and chewy.
Cornstarch: This aids in giving the cookies a more tender texture.
Salt: It enhances flavor and contrasts with the sweetness of the cookies.
Unsalted butter: This gives the cookies their richness and moist texture.
Light brown sugar: It adds a caramel-like flavor and moisture to the cookies.
Granulated sugar: It sweetens the cookies and helps them brown nicely.
Egg: It binds the ingredients together, helping the cookies hold their shape.
Vanilla extract: It adds a hint of depth to the cookies flavor.
Chocolate chips: They add a delicious chocolatey flavor and a different texture to the cookies.
Rolo candies: These will serve as the gooey caramel filling for the cookies.
Sea salt: It enhances and balances the sweetness of the cookies, giving them that hint of 'salted caramel'.
One reader, Kerry Hoy says:
These salted caramel chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer! The combination of gooey caramel, rich chocolate, and a hint of sea salt is pure bliss. The recipe is easy to follow, and the cookies turn out perfectly every time. They're a hit with everyone who tries them!
Techniques Required for Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
How to prepare the dough: Combine the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then mix them together to form a soft, thick dough. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours.
How to assemble the cookies: Roll the dough into balls, make a thumbprint, and press a chocolate-coated caramel inside. Cover with another dough ball, mold the two dough balls around the caramel, and flatten slightly. Press a few more chocolate chips on top and sprinkle with sea salt.
How to bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Bake the cookies for 12 to 13 minutes, allowing them to cool on the sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. If the cookies look too puffy, gently press down on them.
How To Make Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Enjoy these chocolate chip cookies for sweet and salty treats! These buttery goodies are filled with melted salted caramel for extra gooey deliciousness.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2¼cupsall-purpose flour,spoon and leveled
- 1tspbaking soda
- 1½tspcornstarch
- ½tspsalt
- ¾cupunsalted butter,(1½ sticks) melted
- ¾cuplight brown sugar,150g loosely packed
- ½cupgranulated sugar,100g
- 1large egg,plus 1 egg yolk
- 2tsppure vanilla extract
- 1cupchocolate chips,divided
- 15Rolo candies,or other chocolate coated caramel
- sea salt,for sprinkling
Instructions
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Whisk the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt together in a large bowl. Set aside.
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In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until no brown sugar lumps remain.
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Whisk in the egg, then the egg yolk. Finally, whisk in the vanilla extract.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix together with a large spoon or rubber spatula. The dough will be very soft, yet thick.
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Fold in the chocolate chips to the dough and make sure to combine. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for 3 hours or up to 3 to 4 days.
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Take the dough out of the refrigerator and allow to slightly soften at room temperature for 10 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Set aside.
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Roll the dough into balls, 1½ tablespoons each. Make a thumbprint into 1 dough ball and press the chocolate-coated caramel inside.
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Cover the chocolate-coated caramel with another dough ball and mold the two dough balls around the caramel, making sure it is completely wrapped inside.
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Gently press down on the large cookie dough ball to slightly flatten and press a few more chocolate chips on top. Sprinkle with sea salt.
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Put 7 to 8 balls of dough onto each cookie sheet. Put 1 cookie sheet into the refrigerator as you bake the first batch.
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Bake the cookies for 12 to 13 minutes. The cookies will look very soft and underbaked. They will continue to bake on the cookie sheet.
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Allow to cool on the cookie sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. If the cookies still look too puffy when you remove them from the oven, gently press down on them a little more.
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Serve and enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 333.34kcal
- Fat: 16.20g
- Saturated Fat: 9.90g
- Trans Fat: 0.40g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.52g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.58g
- Carbohydrates: 45.03g
- Fiber: 1.50g
- Sugar: 28.62g
- Protein: 3.60g
- Cholesterol: 39.04mg
- Sodium: 170.73mg
- Calcium: 34.12mg
- Potassium: 74.51mg
- Iron: 1.48mg
- Vitamin A: 82.97µg
- Vitamin C: 0.09mg
Essential Technique Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
When making these salted caramel chocolate chip cookies, it's crucial to chill the dough for at least 3 hours. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much during baking. Also, when embedding the rolo candies into the dough, ensure they are completely covered to prevent the caramel from leaking out during baking.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep ahead: Make the cookie dough in advance and chill it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. This allows you to bake the cookies whenever you're ready without having to prepare the dough from scratch.
Use a cookie scoop: Using a cookie scoop will help you create uniform cookie dough balls, saving time on shaping and ensuring even baking.
Double batch: Consider making a double batch of cookie dough and freezing half for later use. This way, you'll have ready-to-bake cookie dough on hand for future cravings.
Bake in batches: While one batch is in the oven, prepare the next batch of cookies. This way, you can maximize your time and bake multiple batches more efficiently.
Invest in silicone baking mats: Using silicone baking mats can save time on greasing and cleaning, as well as prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheets.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber to the cookies, giving them a slightly heartier texture.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a subtle tropical flavor to the cookies and works well as a dairy-free alternative to butter.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar caramel-like flavor to brown sugar and can be used as a 1:1 replacement.
granulated sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the cookies and can also contribute to a chewier texture.
chocolate chips - Substitute with cacao nibs: Cacao nibs provide a more intense chocolate flavor and add a satisfying crunch to the cookies.
rolo candies - Substitute with chopped dates: Chopped dates can add a natural caramel-like sweetness and a chewy texture to the cookies.
sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can provide a similar salty-sweet contrast and adds a subtle mineral flavor to the cookies.
Presenting Your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Elevate the cookie size: Present the cookies as larger, gourmet-sized treats to make a bold statement on the plate.
- Artful drizzle of caramel sauce: Create an elegant, artistic drizzle of caramel sauce on the plate to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
- Garnish with edible flowers: Add a pop of color and a delicate, fresh element to the plate by garnishing with edible flowers such as pansies or violets.
- Serve on a marble slab: Present the cookies on a sleek, polished marble slab to convey a sense of luxury and refinement.
- Dust with edible gold flakes: For a truly opulent touch, delicately dust the cookies with shimmering edible gold flakes to add a touch of extravagance.
- Accompany with a quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream: Serve the cookies alongside a perfectly shaped quenelle of rich, creamy vanilla bean ice cream for a luxurious and indulgent pairing.
- Arrange on a bed of spun sugar: Create an intricate nest of delicate spun sugar to serve as a stunning base for the cookies, adding an element of artistry to the presentation.
- Sprinkle with fleur de sel: Finish the cookies with a light sprinkle of fleur de sel to enhance the flavors and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, typically made of metal loops or wires.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various recipes.
- Rubber spatula: A flexible kitchen tool used for scraping, spreading, and folding ingredients.
- Parchment paper: A non-stick paper used for lining baking sheets and pans to prevent food from sticking.
- Cookie sheet: A flat, metal sheet with raised edges, used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods.
- Wire rack: A metal rack used for cooling baked goods and allowing air to circulate around the food.
Storing and Freezing Your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for salted caramel chocolate chip cookies:
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies:
- Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To thaw frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- For a warm, freshly-baked taste, you can also reheat thawed cookies in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 5-10 minutes.
- If you want to freeze the cookie dough for later baking:
- Roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze the dough balls until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents, including baking instructions.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To bake cookies from frozen dough balls, place them on a lined baking sheet and let them thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed in the recipe, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time if needed.
How To Reheat Leftover Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will help restore the texture and flavor of the salted caramel chocolate chip cookies, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the chocolate chips to melt and the cookies to become too soft. If needed, heat them for an additional 5-10 seconds until they reach your desired temperature and texture.
If you want to reheat a larger batch of cookies, you can use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp. This method is ideal for reheating a small to medium-sized batch of salted caramel chocolate chip cookies.
For a more unconventional approach, you can try reheating the cookies in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the cookies are warm and slightly crisp. This method can help restore the texture of the cookies while maintaining their delicious salted caramel flavor.
If you want to enjoy your leftover cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, try warming them up in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they are warm and slightly crisp. Serve the warm cookies with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Interesting Facts About Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
The salted caramel chocolate chip cookies recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate and caramel with a hint of sea salt for a perfect balance of sweet and salty. These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth and are a great addition to any dessert table or snack time. With the surprise of a hidden caramel center, these cookies are sure to impress your friends and family. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in every bite!
Is Making Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
This salted caramel chocolate chip cookies recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as flour, chocolate chips, and sea salt, are commonly found in most kitchens. However, the addition of Rolo candies may slightly increase the overall cost. Considering the yield and the joy it brings, the cost is reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, as it offers a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, making it a popular choice for dessert lovers.
Are Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The salted caramel chocolate chip cookie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe is high in calories, with a significant amount of butter, sugar, and chocolate chips contributing to the calorie count.
- The use of all-purpose flour means the cookies are made with refined carbohydrates, which lack fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
- The addition of rolos (chocolate-covered caramel candies) further increases the sugar and fat content of the cookies.
However, the recipe does have some redeeming qualities:
- The use of sea salt can help balance out the sweetness and add a depth of flavor to the cookies.
- The recipe calls for unsalted butter, which allows for better control over the total salt content.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and add some nutritional value.
- Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe by 1/4 to 1/3 cup. The cookies will still be plenty sweet, especially with the addition of the rolos.
- Use dark chocolate chips instead of regular chocolate chips. Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants and less sugar than milk chocolate.
- Experiment with using a sugar substitute, such as stevia or monk fruit sweetener, to further reduce the sugar content.
- Consider using a smaller portion of dough for each cookie to create smaller treats with fewer calories per serving.
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutrient-dense version of the salted caramel chocolate chip cookie recipe. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to enjoy a treat like this in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
The salted caramel chocolate chip cookies recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors. The addition of Rolo candies brings a gooey caramel surprise to each bite, while the sea salt enhances the overall taste. The instructions are clear and easy to follow, resulting in a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is a sure crowd-pleaser and a great way to elevate the classic chocolate chip cookie.
Enhance Your Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a perfect balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a delightful experience for your taste buds. The combination of chocolate chips, caramel, and a sprinkle of sea salt creates a harmonious blend that will satisfy any sweet craving. The meticulous steps and attention to detail in the instructions showcase the expertise and dedication of the chef, ensuring a successful outcome. With the addition of rolo candies and high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises a decadent and irresistible treat that you can trust to impress your friends and family.
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