The moment I pulled these Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies from the oven, my kitchen was engulfed in an intoxicating aroma that can only be described as pure bliss. With their perfect balance of light, crispy edges and a soft, fudgy center, these cookies are designed for chocolate lovers like us who crave something special without spending the entire day baking. The quick preparation and the no-chill dough mean you’ll be indulging in these delectable treats in no time. Each bite offers a rich, chocolaty taste complemented by gooey caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt, making these cookies a delightful escape from the everyday hustle. Ready to discover how to whip up a batch that will impress friends and family alike? Let’s dive in!
Why are these cookies a must-try?
Irresistible flavor: Each bite is a heavenly combination of rich chocolate and gooey caramel, topped with a sprinkle of sea salt for that perfect sweet and salty bite.
Quick and easy: No chilling required means you can whip these cookies up in record time, perfect for last-minute dessert cravings or unexpected guests.
Versatile variations: Feel free to get creative! Mix in nuts or swap out the chocolate chips for your favorite flavor to make these cookies your own.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed solo, these cookies are guaranteed to please everyone from chocolate aficionados to casual snackers.
Ready to explore more delightful cookies? Check out my recipe for Crumbl Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies for another irresistible sweet treat!
Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for perfect gluten-free cookies.
• Unsweetened Cocoa Powder – Adds deep chocolate flavor; Dutch-process cocoa can give a milder taste.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise; always check for freshness!
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; consider using sea salt for a different twist.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds rich moisture; can be swapped with vegan margarine for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; brown sugar lends a chewier texture.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor; dark brown sugar works too for a richer taste.
• Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; flax eggs are a great vegan alternative.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic sweetness; almond extract can be a delightful substitute.
For the Chocolate and Caramel
• Semi-Sweet or Milk Chocolate Chips – Chunky chocolate goodness; dark chocolate chips upgrade the flavor intenseness.
• Caramel Flavored Chips – Infuse gooey caramel richness; feel free to omit for a simpler treat.
• Sea Salt Flakes – For sprinkling on top, enhancing that sweet-salty flavor; regular salt is a fine substitute if needed.
Optional Topping
• Caramel Sauce or Dulce de Leche – Drizzle over cookies for an extra touch of sweetness that elevates your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two cookie sheets with parchment paper to ensure your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies bake evenly and don’t stick. This little prep will save you time and hassle when it’s cookie-baking time!
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Ensure these dry ingredients are well combined to create a uniform blend that enhances the rich chocolate flavor of your cookies. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of light brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, resulting in a light texture for your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps. The wet ingredients should be smooth and cohesive, providing a delightful base for your cookie dough.
Step 5: Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture from Step 2 into the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; overmixing can dampen the softness of your cookies. You want to see flour incorporated without any streaks, as this dough will soon become your decadent Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Caramel Chips
Gently fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of caramel-flavored chips using a spatula. Be careful not to overwork the dough! The combination of chocolate and gooey caramel will create that indulgent flavor profile that sets these cookies apart.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop heaping amounts of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows for spreading as they bake, ensuring your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies have room to develop their signature shape.
Step 8: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Before popping them into the oven, light sprinkle the tops of each cookie dough ball with a pinch of sea salt. This small but crucial step enhances the chocolate and caramel flavors, giving your cookies that perfect sweet-salty balance that everyone will love.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the edges should be set, and the centers will look slightly puffy, indicating they’re nearly ready. Remove them from the oven when they reach this visual cue, as they will continue to firm up on the baking sheet.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to become firm enough to transfer. Afterward, gently move them to a wire rack to cool completely. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle caramel sauce or dulce de leche over the cookies once they’ve cooled. Enjoy your delightful batch of Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies!
Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine while preparing these cookies! Each twist adds a delightful kick to the classic flavors you adore.
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Nutty Crunch: Substitute half of the chocolate chips with chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture. The nutty flavor blends perfectly with the rich chocolate and caramel.
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Minty Freshness: Swap in mint chocolate chips instead of regular ones for a refreshing twist. This unexpected flavor will surprise and delight your taste buds!
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Peanut Butter Bliss: Replace caramel chips with peanut butter chips for a creamy, nutty alternative. The combo of chocolate and peanut butter is a classic that never disappoints.
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Gluten-Free Delight: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create a scrumptious batch suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. They won’t miss out on the flavor—trust me!
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Fruity Zest: Add a handful of dried cherries or cranberries to the dough for a burst of fruity flavor. The tartness pairs beautifully with the chocolate and caramel sweetness.
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Spicy Warmth: Sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the dough for a surprising kick. This heat compliments the sweetness and will definitely be a conversation starter!
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Boozy Boost: Add a tablespoon of coffee liqueur or bourbon for an adult twist on your cookies. The flavor deepens beautifully and complements the chocolate superbly.
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Café-Inspired: For a café-style cookie experience, pair these with a scoop of your favorite ice cream or with a drizzle of Caramel Brownie Cheesecake on top for a truly decadent dessert!
Have fun experimenting with these variations and see which combinations become your new favorites!
Make Ahead Options
These Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent choice for busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheets and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps them spread evenly while maintaining their soft, fudgy centers. You can also bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay just as delicious. Just warm them up briefly in the microwave before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies
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Butter Temperature: Ensure your butter is fully softened before creaming with the sugars; this helps achieve that light, fluffy texture for your cookies.
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Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the dough once you combine the dry and wet ingredients; this keeps your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies tender and chewy.
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Uniform Sizes: Use a cookie scoop for consistent dough portions; uniform sizes ensure even baking and a beautifully shaped cookie.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; the edges should look set and slightly puffy in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
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Sea Salt Sprinkles: Don’t skip the sprinkle of sea salt on top; it enhances the sweet and salty flavor combination that makes these cookies irresistible!
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Ingredient Freshness: Double-check the freshness of your baking soda and cocoa powder; using fresh ingredients leads to the best rise and taste in your cookies.
Storage Tips for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to a week in an airtight container, but this may slightly change their softness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To enjoy warm, gooey Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What to Serve with Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies
Delight in the joy of creating a sensational meal that beautifully complements your decadent dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a refreshing balance to the rich chocolate and caramel flavors. Imagine enjoying a warm cookie topped with a melting scoop—pure bliss!
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a vibrant burst of freshness that cuts through the sweetness. Their tangy flavor contrasts wonderfully with the indulgent cookie, creating a harmonious bite.
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Milkshake: A thick chocolate milkshake offers a nostalgic nod to classic desserts, enhancing the double chocolate experience. Blend in some of the cookie crumbs for an extra special touch!
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Coffee: A rich cup of coffee pairs perfectly, enhancing the chocolate notes while providing a cozy warmth. The robust flavors of coffee bring sophistication and deepen the overall dessert experience.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy, nutty trail mix provides a delightful texture contrast and complements the sweetness of the cookies. The added saltiness from mixed nuts brings out the salted caramel even more.
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Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Indulge in chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas for an elegant pairing. These treats will elevate your dessert spread and create a luxurious finishing touch.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: Drizzling extra salted caramel sauce atop each cookie brings a decadent flair. It amplifies the gooeyness for an indulgent experience that’s hard to resist.
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Chocolate Ganache Tart: Serve alongside a slice of silky chocolate ganache tart for a dessert table that truly impresses. The tart’s richness complements the cookies beautifully and creates a memorable treat.
Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! Selecting the right ingredients can elevate your cookies. For the best flavor, use high-quality semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips—look for brands with high cocoa content. Also, opt for fresh, large eggs; they should be free from cracks and ideally at room temperature before use for better emulsification in your dough.
What is the best way to store my cookies?
I often store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them extra soft, place a slice of bread in the container—this clever trick adds moisture and keeps your cookies chewy!
Can I freeze the Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies?
Absolutely! For freezing, place the baked cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To freeze the dough, scoop out individual portions, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very often, cookie spreading occurs due to either warm dough or insufficient flour. If you notice this happening, consider briefly chilling the dough in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking. Additionally, make sure to accurately measure your flour and avoid packing it down in the measuring cup.
Are there any dietary considerations for these cookies?
Certainly! For those with dietary restrictions, you can make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Additionally, if you’re catering to a vegan crowd, exchange the eggs for flax eggs (mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water and let it sit for 5 minutes) and use vegan margarine in place of butter.
Can I adjust the sweetness of the cookies?
Definitely! If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup or swap in dark chocolate chips for a richer depth. Also, feel free to omit the caramel chips altogether for a more straightforward chocolate treat. The beauty of these Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies is in their versatility!
Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add in the large egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.
- Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and caramel-flavored chips gently.
- Drop heaping amounts of dough onto prepared cookie sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Lightly sprinkle with sea salt before baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until edges are set and centers are slightly puffy.
- Cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
