Table of Contents
Introduction
If you love classic chocolate chip cookies but want an extra layer of rich caramel flavor, these caramel chocolate chip cookies are a must-try! The combination of gooey caramel chips and melty chocolate creates a chewy, indulgent cookie that’s perfect for any occasion.
If you’re a fan of chocolate chip cookies with a twist, try these homemade mint chocolate chip cookies for a refreshing alternative.
Let’s get baking and make the most delicious caramel-infused cookies.
Why Make This Recipe?
- Perfectly Chewy Texture: Soft centers with slightly crispy edges.
- Gooey Caramel Pockets: Caramel chips melt into sweet, buttery perfection.
- Easy & Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Great for Sharing: Perfect for parties, holidays, or cookie swaps.
- Pairs Well with Other Treats: Try serving these alongside easy candy cookies for a variety of flavors.
How to Make Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
Ingredients
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened) – Adds richness and creates a chewy texture.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and slight crispiness.
- Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Gives moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
- Eggs (2 large) – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.
- Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances the caramel and chocolate flavors.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – The base that gives structure to the cookies.
- Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps the cookies rise and stay soft.
- Salt (1 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (¾ cup) – Melts into gooey chocolate pockets.
- Caramel Chips (¾ cup) – Provides chewy, buttery caramel flavor.
Directions
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs & Vanilla: Mix in the eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in Chocolate & Caramel Chips: Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and caramel chips until evenly distributed.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop dough into rounded tablespoons and place on the baking sheets, spacing 2-3 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let cookies cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
- With a glass of milk for a classic treat.
- Drizzled with melted caramel for extra indulgence.
- Alongside coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy pairing.
- As an ice cream sandwich—pair with homemade cookie monster ice cream for an amazing dessert.
How to Store Caramel Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months.
Variation Ideas
- Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle cookies with sea salt before baking.
- Extra Chocolatey: Use a mix of milk, dark, and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
FAQs
What does caramelization do to cookies?
Caramelization adds richness, depth, and a slightly crispy texture to cookies by breaking down sugars under heat.
What can I make with caramel and chocolate?
You can make brownies, truffles, bars, caramel-drizzled cakes, or even hot chocolate with caramel and chocolate!
Why are my cookies caramelized?
- High sugar content can cause extra caramelization.
- Overbaking can darken the sugar, creating a caramelized effect.
- High oven temperature may brown the sugars too quickly.
What to make with caramel?
- Salted caramel brownies – Try these salted caramel brownies.
- Caramel apple crisp – Warm caramel mixed with baked apples.
- Caramel popcorn – Sweet, crunchy movie-night treat.
- Caramel-drizzled cheesecake – Perfect for a decadent dessert.
Conclusion
Caramel chocolate chip cookies are the perfect blend of chewy, chocolatey, and caramel goodness! Whether you’re making them for a party, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is easy and absolutely delicious.
So grab your ingredients and bake the best caramel chocolate chip cookies today.