Simple Caramel Cookies Recipe

American Dessert

Simple Caramel Cookies

Soft buttery cookies packed with sweet caramel flavor, perfect for an easy weeknight treat or a cozy weekend indulgence.

There is something so comforting about the smell of caramel filling your kitchen while these cookies bake, with a gentle sweetness and a tender, slightly chewy center that practically melts in your mouth.

I like to make a batch on Sunday evenings so I have cookies ready for quick desserts after dinner, little lunchbox surprises, or an easy grab for movie night at home.

This recipe is a favorite because it is simple, reliable, and always feels a little special without being fussy.

Recipe at a Glance

⏱Prep Time15 mins

🔥Cook Time12 mins

🕐Total Time35 mins

🍰Servingsabout 24 cookies

🇺🇸CuisineAmerican

🔢Caloriesabout 130 per cookie

Ingredients

Cookies

1 cup (226 grams) unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar

3/4 cup (165 grams) packed brown sugar

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups (280 grams) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup caramel bits or chopped salted caramel candies

Finishing

extra sea salt flakes for sprinkling

additional caramel bits for topping

Substitutions & Variations

★Use salted butter and reduce added salt to 1/4 teaspoon if you prefer a richer flavor.

★Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a different aromatic note.

★Replace caramel bits with mini chocolate chips if you want a chocolate caramel style.

★Use gluten free flour blend in place of all purpose flour for gluten free cookies.

★Substitute the egg with a flax egg for a vegan version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a hand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes.

2

Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until smooth and well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

3

Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.

4

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated and you have a soft dough.

5

Stir in Caramel Bits

Fold in the caramel bits with a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

6

Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, which helps prevent spreading and intensifies flavor.

7

Scoops and Shape

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and space them about 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.

8

Bake Until Golden

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly soft.

9

Add Toppings

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of sea salt and an extra few caramel bits if you like.

10

Cool Completely

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool fully before storing.

Pro Baker Tips

✓Chill portions of dough on a cool counter for 10 minutes before scooping to keep them thick.

✓For chewier cookies, slightly underbake the centers and let residual heat finish setting them.

✓Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.

✓Reheat in a low oven for a few minutes to soften and revive the caramel aroma.

✓Label the container with the date so you know when they were baked.

Storage & Serving Notes

◆Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

◆Freeze baked cookies in a heavy freezer bag for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.

◆To refresh frozen cookies, wrap loosely in foil and warm in a 300 degree Fahrenheit oven for 5 to 8 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these warm or at room temperature with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage.

›Place a few cookies on a colorful plate for a casual dessert.

›Pack a cookie in a lunchbox for a sweet surprise.

›Arrange cookies on a tiered stand for a simple party snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my cookies spreading too much?

Chill the dough for at least 15 minutes before baking, and avoid overworking the butter so it holds its shape better in the oven.

Can I use chocolate caramel candies instead of plain caramel bits?

Yes, chocolate caramel candies will add extra sweetness and a lovely chocolate note, just chop them roughly so they distribute evenly.

How do I know when the cookies are done

They are done when the edges are golden but the centers still look slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes, swap the all purpose flour for a gluten free flour blend and make sure your baking powder and caramel bits are gluten free if needed.

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Go Make It!

I hope you enjoy making and sharing these simple caramel cookies, they are reliable, delicious, and perfect for brightening an ordinary day with a little extra sweetness.