Table of Contents
Ever dreamed of a soft, fudgy cookie with gooey caramel? The “Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate Cookies” recipe is here. It won 1st place in the Nestlé Toll House Dark Chocolate Pinspirations Sweepstakes. It’s a sweet and salty dream come true.
Key Takeaways
- Award-winning recipe for soft-baked and fudgy cookies with a gooey caramel center
- Won 1st place in the Nestlé Toll House Dark Chocolate Pinspirations Sweepstakes
- Easy to make with basic kitchen ingredients
- Stuffed with Rolo caramel candies
- Chilling dough for at least 3 hours is mandatory
- Recipe produces 18 cookies that stay soft for up to a week
- Perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors
Want to make these amazing salted caramel chocolate cookies at home? It’s easy with a simple recipe and basic ingredients. You can make a gourmet dessert without spending a lot. Are you ready to impress everyone with these sweet treats?
Why These Award-Winning Cookies Are Special
These sea salt confections are truly special. They won first place in the Nestlé Toll House Dark Chocolate Pinspirations Sweepstakes in 2013. This shows their amazing flavors and textures.
What makes them stand out is the mix of a soft chocolate cookie, gooey caramel, and sea salt on top.
The Story Behind the Nestlé Toll House Award
I wanted to make the classic Nestlé Toll House chocolate chip cookie better. I added a rich caramel filling and sea salt. This created a decadent bite that’s perfect for chocolate lovers.
The result is a cookie that looks great and tastes even better. People love it.
What Makes These Cookies Stand Out
These cookies are not just winners. They have special features. The dough is easy to make and can be used in many recipes.
The mix of soft chocolate, gooey caramel, and sea salt is unique. They’re also great for sharing or giving as gifts.
One of my readers said they’re “one of the best cookies I’ve ever eaten.” Their mix of flavors and textures has won many hearts and taste buds.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Caramel Cookie Success
Making the best salted caramel chocolate cookies needs the right mix of ingredients. As a skilled baker, I know using top-notch ingredients is key. This ensures the cookies have the perfect texture and taste.
The base is all-purpose flour, natural cocoa powder, baking soda, and a bit of salt. For the buttery taste, use room-temperature unsalted butter, a large egg, and sugars. Vanilla extract adds a hint of warmth, and milk keeps the dough together.
- All-purpose flour
- Natural cocoa powder
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Unsalted butter, at room temperature
- Large egg, at room temperature
- Light brown sugar
- Granulated sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Milk
The main stars are chocolate chips and caramel. I use semi-sweet chocolate chips and chewy caramel candies like Rolos. A pinch of sea salt on top adds a perfect sweet-and-salty balance.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (260g) |
| Natural cocoa powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter, at room temperature | 1/2 cup (113g) |
| Light brown sugar | 1/2 cup (105g) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup (100g) |
| Large egg, at room temperature | 1, plus 1 egg yolk |
| Vanilla extract | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup (170g) |
| Soft caramel candies | 1 cup (100g) |
| Sea salt | For topping |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make amazing cookies. They’ll be soft, chewy, and full of flavor.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
For perfect homemade holiday baking treats, the right tools are key. Whether making festive dessert recipes or homemade gifts, these tools help. They make your salted caramel chocolate cookies soft, fudgy, and delicious.
Must-Have Baking Essentials
- Electric mixer (hand-held or stand mixer)
- Baking sheets or cookie trays
- Silicone baking mats or parchment paper
- Cooling rack
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Optional but Helpful Tools
While the basics work well, some extra tools can help a lot. They make baking easier and your cookies look great:
- Cookie scoop or ice cream scoop for uniform dough portions
- Use an offset spatula to transfer cookies from the baking sheet to the cooling rack
- Food processor or high-powered blender for chopping chocolate and caramel
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl for melting chocolate
- Piping bag and tips for decorating and drizzling
Using the right tools is important for great cookies. With the right equipment, you’ll make amazing salted caramel chocolate cookies. Everyone will want more.
The Science Behind Soft and Fudgy Cookie Texture
Baking cookies is an art that needs science to get it right. Using all-purpose flour and cocoa powder makes them fudgy and rich. Baking soda helps them rise beautifully.
Sugars mix in the recipe are key for softness. Brown sugar keeps them chewy. White sugar gives the edges a crisp texture while keeping the center soft. Chilling the dough for 3 hours is important. It lets flavors mix and gluten relax.
Milk adds moisture for a soft feel. It’s also crucial to cream the butter and sugar thoroughly. It makes the dough tender and fluffy.
| Ingredient | Function |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Provides structure and fudgy texture |
| Cocoa powder | Enhances chocolatey flavor and fudgy texture |
| Baking soda | Contributes to lift and rise of cookies |
| Brown sugar | Retains moisture, leading to a chewy texture |
| White sugar | Crisp edges and soft center |
| Milk | Adds moisture for a soft, fudgy texture |
| Butter | Provides tenderness and creamy mouthfeel |
Knowing the science behind baking can make soft, fudgy cookies every time. They are a joy to eat.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide
Get ready to indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and salty treats. Our homemade Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies are a perfect mix of rich caramel and decadent cocoa. They are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Preparing the Cookie Dough
Start by creaming the unsalted butter and sugars in a large bowl for 2-3 minutes. This makes the mixture light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until well mixed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda. Add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chocolate and caramel chips for the perfect sweet and salty balance.
Stuffing and Shaping Techniques
Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or up to 72 hours. This lets the flavors meld and the dough firm up. When ready, scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough, divide it in half, and wrap each piece around a Rolo or caramel candy.
Gently roll the dough to fully encase the caramel center. Place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space between them.
Baking Tips for Perfect Results
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the cookies for 12-13 minutes, watching to avoid overbaking. They should be slightly soft in the center when taken out of the oven.
Sprinkle warm cookies with sea salt flakes for the ultimate sweet and salty experience. Press a few chocolate chips onto the tops of the cookies immediately after baking.
Let the Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Next, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these treats with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. Bon appétit!
Choosing the Right Caramel for Stuffing
Choosing the right caramel is key for perfect gourmet desserts. For these treats, soft Rolo caramel candies are best. They are easy to stuff and melt well.
If Rolos are hard to find, Kraft caramels work too. Cut them in half for the right size. Homemade caramel candies are also great, adding a gooey touch.
For the best results, it’s important to use fresh caramels. Old or hard caramels won’t melt right. This can ruin the gooey, caramelized sweets feel.
| Caramel Option | Texture | Melting Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| Rolo Caramel Candies | Soft and pliable | Melts smoothly into the cookie |
| Kraft Caramels (cut in half) | Firm but pliable | Retains shape, creating a domed top |
| Homemade Caramel Candies | Soft and gooey | Melts into the cookie for a decadent, caramelized sweets center |
The caramel filling makes these gourmet desserts special. It balances the chocolate flavor. By picking the right caramel, your salted caramel chocolate cookies will be a hit.
The Perfect Chocolate Selection Guide
Choosing the right chocolate is key for making tasty gourmet chocolates and artisanal baking at home. Whether you pick dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips, it makes a big difference. The right choice can elevate the indulgent flavors of your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies.
Dark vs Semi-Sweet Options
Choosing between dark and semi-sweet chocolate chips depends on what you like. Dark chocolate gives a deeper, richer taste. Semi-sweet is the classic taste of chocolate chip cookies. Mixing both can add a complex and sophisticated flavor.
Quality Matters: Chocolate Tips
For baking, using high-quality chocolate is essential. Choose gourmet chocolates from trusted makers. This will improve the taste and texture of your cookies. Look at the cocoa content to adjust the sweetness and richness.
Also, think about the size and shape of the chocolate chips. Big, irregular chips can make gooey chocolate pockets. Smaller, uniform chips spread the flavor better. Experiment with different sizes to find what you like best.
Sea Salt: More Than Just a Garnish
Sea salt is key in making sea salt confections, sweet and salty treats, and gourmet desserts irresistible. It’s not just a garnish. It’s a vital part that boosts the flavor of our Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies.
Just before baking, sprinkle a bit of flaky sea salt or coarse sea salt on the dough. This step makes the salt stick well. It adds a cool crunch and a touch of saltiness that balances the sweet caramel and chocolate.
Sea salt also adds a special touch when used as a final sprinkle on warm cookies. It enhances the flavor, making each bite a mix of sweet and salty.
So, when making these sea salt confections, remember sea salt’s importance. It’s not just a garnish. It’s what makes your sweet and salty treats truly gourmet.
Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions
Holiday baking and making homemade desserts can be a big help with these salted caramel chocolate cookies. They are easy to make and keep well. This lets you start early on your holiday gifts or enjoy them all season.
These cookies make 24 treats. If you bake them all at once, don’t worry. They stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months. Just freeze them for 30-45 minutes before putting them in a bag or container. When baking, add 2-3 minutes to the time for frozen dough.
These cookies take only 30 minutes to prepare (15 minutes to get ready and 15 minutes to bake). Each cookie has about 215 calories, 29g of carbs, 10g of fat, and 2g of protein. They bake in under 12 minutes, so you get a fresh, gooey cookie every time.
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration | Preparation Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Cookie dough balls (frozen) | 3 months | Freeze dough balls for 30-45 minutes before transferring to airtight container. Add 2-3 minutes to baking time. |
| Baked cookies (room temperature) | 2-3 days | Store in an airtight container. |
With these tips, you can enjoy these cookies all holiday season. Whether for your celebrations or gifts, they bring homemade joy. Make the most of your holiday baking this year!
Pro Tips for Cookie Success
Making the perfect artisanal baking treat needs focus and insider tips. As a seasoned baker, I’ve seen many ups and downs with gourmet desserts like these salted caramel chocolate cookies. Here are some pro tips to help you succeed with cookies every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Make sure the butter is cool to the touch, not too soft or melted.
- Don’t overmix the dough after adding dry ingredients. This makes cookies tough and chewy.
- Chill the dough for at least 3 hours, or even overnight, for the best texture and flavor.
Troubleshooting Guide
If baking problems arise, don’t worry. Here are some quick fixes to help you get back on track:
- If cookies aren’t spreading, tap the baking sheet gently on the counter. This helps them spread out.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a rack. This keeps them soft and fudgy.
By using these artisanal baking tips, you’ll make gourmet desserts that wow everyone. Dive into the world of indulgent confections and enjoy the sweet fruits of your labor!
Variations and Creative Twists
Baking caramel desserts is a labor of love. But the rewards are worth it. If you want to make your salted caramel chocolate cookies better, try new things. There are endless ways to make these treats even more special.
Try different caramel fillings for a change. Use dulce de leche instead of salted caramel for a twist. Or, add homemade salted caramel sauce for more flavor.
Love white chocolate? Substitute white chocolate chips for regular chocolate chips. The creamy white chocolate goes great with caramel and sea salt. Incorporate chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch.
Want a mocha flavor? Stir in a teaspoon of espresso powder into the dough. The coffee flavor mixes well with caramel and chocolate.
After cooling, get creative with how you present your cookies. Drizzle with melted chocolate or caramel for a fancy look. These touches make your cookies look like they came from a bakery.
Experimenting with your salted caramel chocolate cookies is all about having fun. With a touch of creativity, you can create a dessert that everyone will enjoy.
Gift-Giving and Packaging Ideas
Sharing homemade holiday baking is special. Presentation plays a big role in how it’s enjoyed. Making homemade gifts that look good can make your treats even more special.
Holiday Presentation Tips
Begin by putting your Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies in clear bags. Then, tie them with a festive ribbon. This makes a simple yet elegant gift.
For something more fancy, use decorative tins or boxes. Add a personalized recipe card for a personal touch.
Use seasonal colors and themes in your packaging. This makes your gifts look stunning. Try using red and white stripes or winter images. Or, use neutral colors to match the holiday mood.
For a DIY gift, turn mason jars into cookie mix gifts. Fill them with dry ingredients and include baking instructions.
- Stack cookies in clear cellophane bags tied with ribbon for simple gifting
- Use decorative tins or boxes for more elaborate presentation
- Include a recipe card for a personal touch
- Embrace seasonal colors and motifs in packaging
- Create cookie mix jars with dry ingredients and instructions
With these homemade gift ideas, you can make your holiday baking unforgettable. Share your delicious gourmet desserts in a memorable way.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
These indulgent confections are perfect for many ways to enjoy. Pair them with a cold glass of milk for the perfect treat. The creamy chocolate cookies are amazing when dipped in it.
For something special, pair them with a rich coffee or espresso. This lets the chocolate and coffee flavors mix beautifully.
Want to get creative? Make an ice cream sandwich with a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies. Or, crumble cookies over ice cream and drizzle with salted caramel for a decadent sundae.
Serve the cookies warm to show off the gooey caramel. Add a fresh fruit platter for a balanced dessert.
No matter how you enjoy these cookies, they’re a treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth. They’re irresistible and homemade, leaving you wanting more.
If you liked this article, you might also be interested in:
High-Protein Cupcakes: Tasty Fitness Desserts from our Breakfast category.