Mastering the perfect salted caramel cookies comes down to balancing texture and flavor, and this recipe delivers a chewy milk chocolate chip cookie with an irresistible salted caramel core. The first time I tried to bake these, I didn’t chill the dough long enough, resulting in flatter cookies; a full 24-hour chill is truly key for that perfect thickness and chew. These salted caramel cookies are designed for those who love a classic with a twist, offering a sophisticated blend of sweet and salty that elevates the humble chocolate chip cookie. It’s an ideal treat for gatherings or a cozy night in, promising a truly memorable bite every time.

⏱ Time: 50 min
👥 Servings: 18-20
📊 Level: Medium
🥗 12 ingredients
Chewy Salted Caramel Milk Chocolate Cookies - salted caramel cookies - Salted caramel cookies: master chewy milk chocolate chip cookies with a gooey caramel cen

Chewy Salted Caramel Milk Chocolate Cookies

Salted caramel cookies: master chewy milk chocolate chip cookies with a gooey caramel center. Perfect for a delightful sweet and salty treat!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 20
Calories: 280
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups (191 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 cups (159 grams) bread flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 2 sticks (226 grams) unsalted butter, (at cool room temperature (670F))
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups (156 grams) packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs plus 1 egg yolk, (at room temperature)
  • 1 cup milk chocolate chips
  • 12-15 salted caramel candies

Method
 

  1. In a medium bowl combine the flours, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt.
  2. In the bowl of an electric mixer beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the eggs and the yolk, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add in the vanilla. Gradually beat in the flour mixture. Stir in the chocolate chips. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 24 hours but no more than 72 hours. Remove the dough from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before shaping.
  3. Preheat oven to 3500F. Line baking sheets with nonstick baking mats or parchment paper.
  4. Divide dough into 3-tablespoon sized balls and drop onto prepared baking sheets. Take a ball of dough and divide it into two. Flatten each piece and place a caramel candy in between. Shape the dough around the candy to seal. Slightly flatten then sprinkle with the fleur de sel. Repeat for each ball of dough.
  5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool for 2 minutes before removing to wire racks. Let cool until warm before serving. Cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a 3500F for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

– Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 24 hours – it’s crucial for flavor development and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
– Ensure your butter is at a cool room temperature (67°F / 19°C) for the best creaming consistency, avoiding a greasy dough.
– Use soft, individually wrapped caramel candies for the center; harder caramels might not melt as smoothly.
– For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough balls and bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.

Pro tips

  • Don’t skip chilling the dough for at least 24 hours – it’s crucial for flavor development and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
  • Ensure your butter is at a cool room temperature (67°F / 19°C) for the best creaming consistency, avoiding a greasy dough.
  • Use soft, individually wrapped caramel candies for the center; harder caramels might not melt as smoothly.
  • For longer storage, freeze unbaked dough balls and bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.

These salted caramel cookies are a true delight, combining classic comfort with a gourmet touch. Experiment with different chocolate types or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a personalized twist. Enjoy every sweet and salty bite!

More from Chocolate Chip Cookies →