Chewy Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Ultimate No-Chill Recipe

Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies – Get ready for the most incredible, melt-in-your-mouth cookies you’ve ever tasted! These warm delights boast a wonderfully chewy cookie base, filled with pockets of gooey caramel, offering a slight crispness around the edges, and a perfectly balanced amount of rich chocolate. They’re not just cookies; they’re an experience!

Whether it’s a chilly evening or a surprisingly warm afternoon, these salted caramel chocolate chip cookies are always the perfect treat. This recipe is designed for a small batch, making it ideal for satisfying those sudden cookie cravings without a huge commitment. But the best part? They feature an irresistibly gooey caramel center and require absolutely NO CHILLING time! That’s right, these glorious cookies can go from craving to consumption in under 30 minutes – sometimes even faster, depending on how eager you are. I truly cannot wait for you to whip up a batch of these extraordinary cookies and experience the magic for yourself!

Explore More Delicious Cookie Recipes

• Frosted Coconut Caramel Sugar Cookies Recipe
• Best Chocolate Birthday Cookies With Frosting
• Tasty Lemon Blueberry Muffin Cookies
• Best Lofthouse Sugar Cookie Copycat Recipe

Why These Salted Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies Will Be Your New Favorite

Prepare for these caramel chocolate chip cookies to quickly become a staple in your baking repertoire. Seriously, you’ll thank me later! To show you why I’m so passionate about this particular recipe, I’ve compiled my top reasons for loving these cookies so much. They truly stand out from the crowd!

• The Best Cookies You’ll Bake – We all adore the classic chocolate chip cookie, a timeless favorite. While I can’t compete with its original perfection, I aimed to elevate it. By introducing a rich, gooey caramel center and a touch of flaky sea salt, these cookies transcend the ordinary, offering a sophisticated twist that’s both comforting and exciting. They combine familiar flavors with an unexpected depth, making them truly special.
• A Delicious Recipe Born from Dedication – Achieving perfection takes persistence! I rigorously tested this recipe three times, each iteration bringing me closer to the ideal. The flavor was consistently perfect from the start, but the texture proved to be a challenge. After the third try, meticulously adjusting ingredient ratios and baking methods, I finally achieved the most delicious and perfectly textured cookie imaginable – a soft, chewy interior with just the right amount of crispness at the edges.
• The Perfect Flavor Balance – My initial attempts at these cookies suffered from an imbalance; I added far too much chocolate, which overwhelmed the delicate caramel notes. Through careful adjustments, I reduced the chocolate chips, allowing the sweet, buttery caramel to truly shine. The result is an undeniable harmony between the rich chocolate and the decadent caramel, each complementing the other without overpowering it. Every bite offers a delightful interplay of these two beloved flavors.

Essential Pantry Staples for Unforgettable Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

To create these incredibly delicious caramel chocolate chip cookies, you’ll need a few key pantry staples. While I’ll highlight some of my favorites here, please remember that a comprehensive list of all ingredients and their exact measurements can be found in the detailed recipe card at the very bottom of this page.

• Flaky Sea Salt – This isn’t just an optional garnish; it’s a game-changer! My absolute favorite is Maldon Sea Salt. Its delicate crunch and intense flavor perfectly cut through the sweetness of the caramel and chocolate, elevating the entire cookie experience to new heights. Don’t skip this for that gourmet touch!
• Dark Brown Sugar – It’s no surprise that quality brown sugar is essential for that perfect chewy texture and rich, molasses-like flavor. I always opt for a high-quality yet affordable dark brown sugar, with C&H being a fantastic choice for its consistent quality. The dark variety contributes to the deep, moist chewiness that makes these cookies so irresistible.
• Werther’s Soft Caramels – I tested numerous types of caramels, and Werther’s Original Soft Caramels proved to be the absolute best for this recipe. Their soft, meltable texture creates that perfect gooey center without hardening too much once the cookies cool. Accept no substitutes for that signature caramel pull!
• Granulated Sugar – A baking fundamental! This sweetens the dough and helps with spread and crispness around the edges. If this isn’t in your pantry, it might be time to stock up on this essential baking ingredient!
• Dark Chocolate Chips – The age-old debate in chocolate chip cookies: which chocolate is best? For these caramel cookies, I prefer dark chocolate chips because their slight bitterness beautifully balances the sweetness of the caramel. However, feel free to use semi-sweet chocolate chips if that’s your preference – the choice is yours!

Step-by-Step Guide: Crafting Your Perfect Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Curious about how easily these delicious caramel chocolate chip cookies come together? Here’s a concise summary of the steps involved, designed to give you a clear overview. For a complete, detailed list of instructions and precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card located further down the page.

• Prepare Your Baking Space: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup. Set them aside while you prepare the dough.
• Cream the Fats and Sugars: In a stand mixer, ideally with a paddle attachment, combine ½ cup of cold, cubed unsalted butter with ½ cup of packed dark brown sugar and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and smooth. This step is crucial for the cookie’s final texture.
• Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Stop the mixer and use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are well-incorporated. Add one large egg and mix on medium speed for about 30 seconds. Then, stir in one teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, mixing just until combined.
• Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ teaspoon each of baking soda and baking powder, ½ teaspoon of corn starch, ¾ teaspoon of salt, and 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed only until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Finally, gently fold in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips.
• Scoop, Stuff, and Arrange: Using a 3-tablespoon size cookie scoop, portion out your cookie dough. While the dough is still in the scoop, carefully press a soft caramel into its center, then release the dough onto your prepared baking sheets. Arrange them with enough space, about 2 inches apart, to allow for spreading. You should be able to fit approximately 6 cookies on each sheet.
• Bake to Golden Perfection: Place your baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies are ready when their edges turn a beautiful golden brown. Don’t worry if the centers appear slightly undercooked; they will continue to firm up as they cool, ensuring that perfect gooey texture. For an extra touch, I always sprinkle mine with a little more flaky sea salt right after they come out of the oven!
• Cool and Indulge: Allow the baked cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This crucial step helps them set and prevents them from breaking when you move them. Afterward, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before enjoying your irresistible creations.

Expert Baking Tips for Flawless Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

While this recipe is straightforward, a few expert tips can help ensure your caramel chocolate chip cookies turn out perfectly every single time. Consider these pointers as you prepare and bake your delicious batch!

• Soften the Caramels: Before you even start mixing your dough, unwrap your soft caramels and let them come to room temperature. This crucial step makes them much more pliable and easier to work with. Softened caramels will be easier to push into the cookie dough without tearing it, ensuring a perfectly enclosed, gooey center in every cookie.
• Achieve Uniformity with a Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop is your best friend for consistency. Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop ensures that each cookie is precisely the same size, which is key for even baking. It also simplifies the process of stuffing the caramel, as the scoop acts as a perfect mold for the dough around the caramel.
• Proper Spacing for Optimal Spreading: When arranging your cookie dough balls on the baking sheets, make sure to space them at least 2 inches apart. This provides ample room for the cookies to spread out as they bake without merging into one giant cookie, allowing for those lovely crisp edges.
• Monitor Baking Time Closely: Every oven is a little different, so the specified baking time of 10-12 minutes is a guideline. Keep a close eye on your cookies. They are done when the edges are visibly golden brown. The centers might still look a bit soft, which is exactly what you want for that signature gooey texture.
• The Importance of Cooling: Patience is a virtue, especially when it comes to cooling cookies. Allow them to cool on the baking sheets for at least 5 minutes before attempting to transfer them to a wire rack. This initial cooling period allows the cookies to set and firm up, preventing them from breaking apart as you move them.
• Elevate Flavor with Extra Flaky Salt: If you’re a fan of the irresistible sweet and salty combination, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a pinch of extra flaky sea salt over the cookies immediately after they come out of the oven. The warmth helps the salt adhere, enhancing the caramel flavor and providing a delightful textural contrast.
• Quality Ingredients Make a Difference: The caliber of your ingredients directly impacts the final taste of your cookies. Invest in real butter, high-quality chocolate chips, and fresh soft caramels. These premium components will truly shine through, contributing to a superior flavor and texture that mass-produced alternatives simply can’t match.
• Avoid Overmixing the Dough: When combining your wet and dry ingredients, mix only until they are just incorporated. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour too much, which can result in tough, dense cookies rather than the soft, chewy texture we’re aiming for. A gentle hand and low speed are all you need.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you begin. Room temperature butter creams more smoothly with sugar, creating a light and airy base for your dough. A room temperature egg emulsifies better, leading to a more consistent and cohesive cookie dough.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Baking Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Having the right tools can make your baking experience much smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of the kitchen equipment you’ll need to successfully make these chewy caramel chocolate chip cookies:

1. Stand Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer: This is crucial for creaming the butter and sugars together effectively, creating the light and fluffy base for your cookies. A stand mixer with a paddle attachment is ideal for ease, but a good hand mixer will also do the job perfectly.
2. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need at least one large mixing bowl for the dough and a separate smaller bowl for whisking dry ingredients. If mixing by hand, ensure your large bowl is sturdy and spacious.
3. Whisk and Rubber Spatula: A whisk is essential for properly combining your dry ingredients, ensuring even distribution of leavening agents. A rubber spatula is invaluable for scraping down the sides of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are fully incorporated without overmixing.
4. Cookie Scoop: A 3-tablespoon size cookie scoop is highly recommended. It ensures consistent cookie size for even baking and makes the process of portioning dough and stuffing caramels incredibly easy and mess-free.
5. Baking Sheets: You’ll need two regular-sized baking sheets, preferably lined with parchment paper, to bake your cookies. Using two allows you to bake more cookies at once or rotate them for even cooking.
6. Wire Rack: An essential tool for cooling your cookies. A wire rack allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom and ensuring they cool completely and evenly.
7. Oven Thermometer: While not strictly necessary for every recipe, an oven thermometer is a great investment. It ensures your oven is heating to the correct temperature, which is vital for consistent baking results.
8. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in baking! A set of dry measuring cups and spoons, along with a liquid measuring cup, will ensure all your ingredients are measured precisely for the best outcome.
9. Spatula or Turner: A thin, flexible metal spatula is perfect for carefully transferring your warm, delicate cookies from the baking sheet to the wire rack after their initial cooling period.
10. Optional: Extra Flaky Salt: If you opt for that delicious sweet and salty finish, have a small dish of flaky sea salt ready to sprinkle over the hot cookies as they come out of the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Here are some common questions that arise when making these delectable caramel chocolate chip cookies. If you have a question that isn’t addressed here, please don’t hesitate to leave it in the comment box below!

Storing and Freezing Your Delectable Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

To maintain the irresistible freshness and chewy texture of these caramel chocolate chip cookies, proper storage is key. Once your cookies have cooled completely to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. To prevent them from sticking together, especially with those gooey caramel centers, I recommend layering them between sheets of wax paper or parchment paper. Stored at room temperature, these cookies will remain delightfully fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. For an extra treat, a quick warm-up in the microwave for 10-15 seconds can bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven gooeyness!

Freezing Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies for Later Enjoyment

These caramel chocolate chip cookies are fantastic for freezing, allowing you to enjoy a homemade treat whenever the craving strikes. To freeze them, first ensure they are completely cooled. Then, arrange the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer until they are solid – this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight freezer-safe container, layering them with parchment paper if stacking. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply remove the desired number of cookies and let them thaw at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. You can also warm them slightly in the microwave for that freshly baked experience.

Remember to leave a 5-star review and a comment if you loved the recipe or have any questions! Your feedback truly means a lot to me and helps others discover these wonderful cookies. Also, don’t forget to follow me on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok for more fun content, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and delicious recipes. I can’t wait to connect with you there!

FOR MORE IRRESISTIBLE COOKIE RECIPES, CHECK THESE OUT!

Recipe

Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Molly Murphy

These warm cookies have a chewy cookie base, chewy caramel, slight crisp edges, and a perfect amount of chocolate!

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Course
Dessert

Cuisine
American

Servings

12
Cookies

Ingredients

• ½ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
• ½ cup dark brown sugar packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ¾ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon corn starch
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 1 ¾ cup all purpose flour
• ½ cup dark chocolate chip
• 12 soft caramels I used werther’s soft caramel

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two regular size baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.
• In a stand size mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together cubed unsalted butter, dark brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until smooth. About 2-3 minutes.
• With a rubber spatula, scrape down the sides and the bottom of the bowl. Add in the egg and mix on medium speed for 30 seconds and mix the vanilla extract just until combined.
• Add the baking soda, baking powder, corn starch, salt, and all-purpose flour, chocolate chips and mix on low just until
• Use a 3 tablespoon size cookie scoop to scoop the dough into the cookie scoop. Then push a caramel into the center of the cookie dough while its still in the scoop. Release the cookie dough onto the prepped pan. You will be fit 6 cookie doughs on each one!
• Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may look slightly undercooked, but they will continue to cook as they cool. I always sprinkle my cookies with extra flakey salt!
• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Keyword
cookies, caramel

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!