Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

This Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies recipe is a delightful treat that will make your taste buds dance. With light, crispy edges and a soft, fudgy center, these cookies deliver a rich chocolatey flavor enhanced by caramel and a sprinkle of sea salt. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of chocolate and caramel creates a decadent taste that everyone loves.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just because—you’ll want to share them!
• Textural Delight: Enjoy the contrast between crispy edges and a chewy center with every bite.
• Customizable: Add nuts or extra chocolate chips for a personalized twist on this classic cookie.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Cookie sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture when mixing butter and sugars.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

This Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies recipe gives you light, crispy edges that are soft and fudgy in the middle, with a rich chocolatey, caramel taste, and sea salt flakes lightly sprinkled on top!

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 1 tsp Baking Soda
• 1 tsp Salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
• 2 Large Eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract

Mix-Ins

• 1 1/2 cups Semi-Sweet or Milk Chocolate Chips
• 1 cup Caramel Flavored Chips
• Sea Salt Flakes (for sprinkling over top of cookies)
• Caramel Sauce or Dulce de Leche (optional, for drizzling over the top of cookies)

How to Make Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Adjust your oven rack to the 2nd level mark (just above center), preheat the oven to 375ºF. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using your stand mixer or hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together on medium-high speed until light and fluffy.
2. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until well blended.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Switching the mixer speed to low:
1. Gradually add in your whisked dry ingredients until just combined.
2. Fold in the chocolate chips and caramel chips gently.

Step 6: Scoop Dough onto Sheets

Using a spoon or cookie scoop (I used the 1 1/2 tablespoon size):
1. Drop dough by spoonfuls onto lined baking sheets.
2. Leave about 2 inches apart for spreading.

Step 7: Sprinkle Sea Salt

Lightly sprinkle sea salt flakes over each cookie before baking.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Bake for 8-10 minutes at 375ºF (mine baked for about 10 minutes).

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven:
1. Allow to cool for 5 minutes on baking sheets.
2. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack to finish cooling.

Step 10: Drizzle with Caramel

If desired, drizzle caramel sauce or dulce de leche over each cookie before serving.

Step 11: Store Properly

Keep stored in an airtight container for up to a week with a slice of bread to keep them soft.

Enjoy your homemade Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies!

How to Serve Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

These delicious Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for any occasion. They are not just a treat on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments to enhance your dessert experience.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream balances the rich chocolate flavor, creating a delightful contrast.
• Salted Caramel Ice Cream – Enhance the salted caramel flavor with this indulgent ice cream that complements the cookies perfectly.

With Coffee or Tea

• Freshly Brewed Coffee – A warm cup of coffee pairs well with the cookies, bringing out their rich flavors.
• Herbal Tea – For a lighter option, herbal tea can complement the sweetness without overpowering it.

As Dessert Stacks

• Layered Desserts – Create an impressive dessert stack by layering crushed cookies with whipped cream and chocolate sauce in a glass.
• Cookie Sandwiches – Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of ice cream or frosting for an extra special treat.

Drizzled with Sauce

• Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle melted chocolate sauce over the cookies for an added touch of sweetness and richness.
• Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the already delicious flavor profile without overwhelming it.

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How to Perfect Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Perfecting your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix until ingredients are just combined to maintain that soft, fudgy center.
• Chill the Dough – Chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading and achieve thicker cookies.
• Watch Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be soft in the center when you take them out.
• Store Properly – Place them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them fresh longer.

Best Side Dishes for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

While these cookies shine on their own, serving them with side dishes can elevate the entire dessert experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A light and refreshing salad made with seasonal fruits that provides a sweet contrast.
2. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cookie into warm chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert experience.
3. Whipped Cream – Serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top or alongside for added creaminess.
4. Cheese Platter – Offer a selection of cheeses that pair well with sweet flavors, enhancing the overall taste experience.
5. Nutty Trail Mix – A crunchy nut mix provides a great textural contrast against the soft cookies.
6. Mini Cheesecakes – Individual cheesecakes bring a creamy element that complements the rich chocolate flavors wonderfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cookies can be finicky, and even minor errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are common mistakes to avoid when making Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs for a smooth batter and better texture. Cold ingredients can cause your cookies to spread too much.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too long after adding the flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for soft, chewy results.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Make sure to preheat your oven correctly and use an oven thermometer if needed for accuracy.
• Not Chilling the Dough: If time allows, chill your dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps control spreading and enhances flavor.
• Skipping Sea Salt Topping: Don’t skip the sprinkle of sea salt! It balances the sweetness and adds a wonderful flavor contrast to the cookies.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place a slice of bread in with them to keep them moist.

Freezing Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months.
• Wrap each ball in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on high for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until slightly softened.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies that may help you out.

How do I make Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, try using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar, as it retains moisture better.

Can I substitute the chocolate chips?

Absolutely! You can use white chocolate chips or even nuts if you want a different texture or flavor profile.

How do I store Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What if I don’t have caramel flavored chips?

You can replace them with more chocolate chips or even use homemade caramel if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

These Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies are not only delectable but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or different types of chocolate. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or sharing with friends, they are sure to bring joy and satisfaction. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!