Step-by-step instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get baking. Follow these easy steps to create your caramel-stuffed cookies:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chocolate chips.
- Take a small amount of dough, flatten it in your palm, place a caramel in the center, and wrap the dough around the caramel to form a ball.
- Arrange the cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball.
- If desired, sprinkle with flaky sea salt for an extra touch.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
- Allow cooling for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your caramel-stuffed chocolate chip cookies are out of the oven and cooled, here are a few lovely ways to enjoy them:
- Serve Warm: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the caramel is still gooey.
- A la Mode: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create an indulgent dessert.
- Pair with Milk: A glass of cold milk is the classic accompaniment to these sweet treats.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your cookies fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
- Freezing: These cookies freeze beautifully. Just make sure to store them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for up to three months.
- Reheating: To enjoy a freshly baked taste, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or a warm oven for a couple of minutes.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies come out perfectly:
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the flour, mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft, chilling it for about 30 minutes makes it easier to handle.
- Quality Caramels: Use high-quality caramels for the best flavor; they make a significant difference.
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations to try in your cookie-making adventure:
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the dough for a nice texture contrast.
- Spice It Up: Incorporate cinnamon or espresso powder for a unique flavor boost.
- Different Fillings: Try using peanut butter cups or chocolate-covered caramels for an exciting twist.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare these cookies?
From start to finish, expect to spend about 30-40 minutes on preparation and baking.
Can I substitute the brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute it with coconut sugar or even granulated sugar, but this may alter the flavor slightly.
Are these cookies safe for freezing?
Absolutely! Just ensure they’re sealed well in a freezer-safe container, and you should have no issues enjoying them in a few months.
These caramel-stuffed chocolate chip cookies are sure to delight everyone in your home, turning any ordinary day into a memorable occasion! Happy baking!
