Are you craving a warm, gooey cookie that's bursting with caramel flavor? Look no further! This caramel chip cookie recipe is the perfect blend of sweet and salty, crunchy and chewy – everything you could ever want in a homemade treat. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe will guide you through creating delicious caramel chip cookies that will impress everyone. It's the perfect addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas or simply a delightful dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups caramel chips (or chopped caramel candies)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Cream the butter and sugars:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Use an electric mixer for best results, but you can certainly use a good old-fashioned whisk if you prefer a bit more arm workout.
Add wet ingredients:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Mix wet and dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Add the caramel chips:
- Stir in the caramel chips. Don't be shy with those delicious caramel morsels!
Bake the cookies:
- Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft.
Cool and enjoy:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Caramel Chip Cookies:
- Softened butter is key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This ensures proper creaming and a delicious texture.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies with crispier edges, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Use good quality caramel chips: The flavor of your caramel chips will significantly impact the overall taste of your cookies.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch.
- Sea salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for an extra touch of salty sweetness.
- Dark chocolate chunks: Combine caramel and dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-12g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This easy caramel chip cookie recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. Enjoy the sweet reward of homemade goodness! These cookies are perfect for sharing (or not!). They're also a great way to use up leftover caramel candies, turning them into a truly unique and special treat. Happy baking!