Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies a soft and chewy sugar cookies infused with buttery caramel flavor and a hint of sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and salty. These cookies are an indulgent treat, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth while offering a subtle salty finish. Whether for a holiday tray or an afternoon snack, they’re guaranteed to please.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of sweet caramel and flaky sea salt creates an irresistible flavor contrast.
They have a soft, chewy texture with a golden edge—classic sugar cookie perfection.
Easy to prepare with pantry-staple ingredients and a quick prep time.
Perfect for making ahead, storing, or even gifting.
A crowd-pleaser for all ages, ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 caramel candies, melted (or 1/3 cup caramel sauce)
Flaky sea salt for topping
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear slightly underbaked.
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Once cooled, drizzle melted caramel over each cookie and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow the caramel to set before serving.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Calories: Approximately 180 kcal per cookie
Variations
Chocolate-Caramel Delight: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.
Spiced Caramel Cookies: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice kick.
Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed pecans or almonds over the caramel topping for a nutty crunch.
Caramel-Free Option: If caramel isn’t your preference, use melted white chocolate as a drizzle instead.
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and bake as directed.
Reheating: If desired, warm the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes to refresh their texture.
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FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.
How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure the butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking if needed.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce works well and saves time.
How do I melt caramel candies without burning them?
Melt caramel candies in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of heavy cream in 20-second intervals, stirring between each.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute, flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water), and a vegan caramel sauce.
Conclusion
Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies are the ultimate combination of sweet and salty in a soft, chewy cookie form. With simple ingredients, easy directions, and endless customization options, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, they’re sure to become a favorite in no time. Try them today and savor the irresistible caramel goodness.
📖 Recipe:
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Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft and chewy Salted Caramel Sugar Cookies blend buttery caramel flavor with flaky sea salt for a perfectly balanced treat. These cookies are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for holidays or casual snacking.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 caramel candies, melted (or 1/3 cup caramel sauce)
Flaky sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions, roll into balls, and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are slightly underbaked.
- Cool cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Drizzle melted caramel over cooled cookies and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Allow caramel to set before serving.
Notes
To avoid spreading, chill dough for 30 minutes before baking.
Substitute caramel candies with store-bought caramel sauce for convenience.
Add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon for a spiced variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 24 cookies
- Calories: 180 kcal
