Soft Chewy Salted Caramel

Salted caramel cookies are my favorite treat when I want something soft, chewy, and perfectly balanced between sweet and salty. These cookies come together quickly and always hit the spot, especially with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee.

I threw this recipe together after craving a sweeter twist on classic chocolate chip cookies and now it’s a staple in my baking rotation

Ingredients

• All purpose flour: creates a tender yet sturdy cookie base. Choose a well-sifted flour without lumps for even mixing
• Baking soda: helps the cookies spread just enough and gives them that soft texture
• Salt: balances the sweetness and enhances the caramel flavor. Table salt works fine but flaky sea salt is best for that finishing touch
• Unsalted butter: softened to room temperature ensures the dough creams properly for a light texture. Avoid melted butter for a chewier cookie
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: give the cookies their classic sweetness and slight molasses flavor from the brown sugar makes them rich
• Large eggs: add structure and moisture. Use room temperature eggs for easier mixing
• Vanilla extract: rounds out all the flavors and adds warmth
• Caramel chips: melt slightly during baking creating those irresistible pockets of gooey caramel
• Chocolate chips: bring a deep cocoa flavor that complements the caramel nicely
• Flaky sea salt: sprinkled on top adds a burst of texture and a nice contrast to the sweet cookie

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures the rising agent and salt distribute properly throughout the dough

Cream Butter and Sugars:

Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter along with the granulated and brown sugars at medium speed until the mixture is light in color and fluffy in texture. This usually takes about three to five minutes and is key for a tender cookie

Add Eggs and Vanilla:

Add the eggs one at a time mixing well after each addition to fully incorporate them into the creamed butter. Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse the dough with warmth

Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures:

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet butter mixture, mixing on low speed just until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender

Fold in Chopped Chips:

Using a spatula, gently fold in the caramel chips and chocolate chips distributing them evenly but carefully so you do not break them up too much

Scoop onto Baking Sheets:

Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion dough onto prepared baking sheets leaving about two inches between cookies for spreading

Add Flaky Sea Salt:

Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie dough mound to highlight the sweetness once baked

Bake and Cool:

Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown but centers still look soft. Let the cookies cool for five minutes on the baking sheet to set before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely

I love how the caramel chips melt just enough to give a molten center without completely losing their shape. The first time I made these cookies for a holiday gathering the little sea salt crystals brought friends to the kitchen grab plate after plate without even asking

Storage Tips

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for up to three days. If they start to dry out a bit popping one in the microwave for ten to fifteen seconds works wonders to restore that just-baked softness

Ingredient Swaps

If you cannot find caramel chips, chop up soft caramel candies as an alternative but be mindful they can melt differently. For chocolate chips try milk or dark chocolate depending on your preference or even mini chocolate chunks for extra texture

Serving Ideas

These cookies shine on their own but also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream for a little dessert upgrade. They make a great addition to cookie platters or afternoon tea spreads

Salted caramel cookies are a wonderful balance of sweet and salty that makes every bite a little celebration

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What makes the cookies soft and chewy?

The combination of softened butter, balanced sugars, and careful baking time helps create a tender, chewy texture.

→ Can I substitute caramel chips with another ingredient?

Yes, but caramel chips provide a unique sweetness and texture; alternatives like toffee bits may alter the final flavor and consistency.

→ Why is flaky sea salt added on top?

Flaky sea salt enhances flavor by providing a subtle savory contrast that complements the sweetness of caramel and chocolate.

→ How can I prevent overbaking?

Watch for golden edges and slightly soft centers; remove from oven promptly and allow to cool for perfect softness.

→ What is the best way to store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness and chewiness.