Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies
Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies are an irresistible blend of sweetness and crunch, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. A delightful creation that combines buttery cookies with pockets of gooey caramel and crispy toffee bits, these cookies bring joy to any occasion. I first discovered this recipe while searching for a crowd-pleaser for a holiday gathering, and they instantly became a family favorite. Whether it’s a cozy winter evening, a summer picnic, or simply a dessert treat after weeknight dinners, these cookies have a way of turning any moment into a celebration.
Why make this recipe
The allure of Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies lies in their unique flavor profile and delightful texture. You’ll love how simple yet indulgent these cookies are—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. With minimal effort, you can whip up these sweet treats that have a wonderful balance of crunchy toffee bits and smooth caramel, elevating them to a gourmet status. They are great for fulfilling your cookie cravings or for sharing with friends, and they’ll surely impress anyone who tries them.
"These are hands down the best cookies I’ve ever made! The combo of caramel and toffee is unreal. Will definitely be making them again!" – Sarah M.
How to make Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies
The process of making Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies is straightforward and enjoyable. You’ll start by creating a classic cookie dough, then incorporate the delightful mix-ins that take these cookies to the next level. Here’s a quick outline of the steps involved in crafting these delicious treats:
- Cream the butter and sugars.
- Add in the eggs and vanilla.
- Combine the dry ingredients.
- Mix everything together and fold in the special bits.
- Bake and enjoy!
Ingredients
To make these dreamy Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup toffee bits
- 1 cup caramel bits
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for topping)
If you want a slightly different flavor, try brown sugar instead of white sugar, or swap the toffee bits with chocolate chips!
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the toffee bits and caramel bits until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart for even baking.
- Lightly sprinkle the tops of the cookies with flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to serve Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies
The best way to enjoy Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies is straight out of the oven while they’re still warm. Serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat or pair them with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. You can also plate them beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top or alongside a dollop of whipped cream for a fun dessert platter.
How to store
To keep your salted caramel cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, but good luck keeping them around that long! If you want to extend their shelf life, you can also freeze the cookies by placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Just be sure to layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. For best results, thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
Tips to make
To elevate your Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies, ensure your butter is at room temperature for better creaming. Avoid overmixing the dough once you add the dry ingredients; this keeps your cookies tender. If you love your cookies with even more crunch, consider adding chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. Lastly, for the best caramel taste, use high-quality caramel bits instead of generic brands.
Variations
There are several fun twists you can try with this recipe. For a chocolatey version, incorporate cocoa powder into the dry ingredients and add chocolate chunks. For a seasonal touch, add some pumpkin spice or swap out the caramel bits for butterscotch. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
Preparation time typically takes about 20-30 minutes, plus the baking time of 10-12 minutes.
Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
Yes, margarine can replace butter in this recipe; however, the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Are these cookies safe to eat if left out overnight?
Yes, as long as they are stored in an airtight container, they should be fine for up to a week. If they are exposed to moisture, they may become soft or stale more quickly.
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Absolutely! You can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag and bake from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Salted Caramel Crunch Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure butter is at room temperature.
- 1 cup granulated sugar Can substitute with brown sugar for a different flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup toffee bits For an alternative, consider using chocolate chips.
- 1 cup caramel bits Use high-quality caramel bits for best flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (for topping) Sprinkle on top before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in the toffee bits and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Lightly sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt.
Baking
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
