Name: Irresistible Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option.); 0.5 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (No substitution recommended for desired taste depth.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Ensure it’s fresh for best results.); 0.25 teaspoon salt (Can be omitted for low-sodium diets.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (room temperature) (Substitute with dairy-free butter for vegan version.); 0.5 cups granulated sugar (Can replace with coconut sugar for lower glycemic index.); 0.5 cups light brown sugar (Substitute with dark brown sugar for deeper taste.); 2 large eggs (room temperature) (Use 1/4 cup applesauce per egg for egg-free version.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for best results.); 0.5 cups semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips (Dark chocolate can be substituted for a richer taste.); 0.5 cups caramel flavored chips (Can be replaced with toffee chips for variation.); to taste sea salt flakes (Use kosher salt if flakes are unavailable.); optional caramel sauce or dulce de leche (Optional for drizzling over cookies.)

The aroma of chocolate wafts through the kitchen, instantly transforming the space into a cozy haven. If you’re seeking a cookie that combines pure indulgence with a sprinkle of sophistication, these Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies are just what you need. With their crispy edges and fudgy centers, they strike the perfect balance between textures that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up—perfect for a spontaneous baking session or impressing friends at your next gathering. And let’s not forget the crowning glory: a delightful drizzle of salted caramel that elevates these cookies to unforgettable heights. Curious about how to make these mouthwatering treats your new go-to dessert? Let’s dive in!

Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?

Indulgent Flavors: These Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies combine rich chocolate with gooey caramel for a treat that’s simply divine.
Texture Variety: Enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy edges with fudgy centers that make each bite a joy.
Quick to Make: You’ll love how easy and fast they are to prepare, perfect for when you’re craving something sweet on a whim.
Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different chocolate types or add nuts for a personal touch; the choices are endless!
Crowd-Pleaser: Guaranteed to impress everyone at your next gathering, no one can resist the allure of chocolate and caramel. For similar indulgent ideas, check out the Caramelized Onion Goat and White Chocolate Orange recipes!

Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

All-purpose flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Unsweetened cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor; no substitution recommended for desired taste depth.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for cookie rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; can be omitted for low-sodium diets.
Unsalted butter (room temperature) – Creates a creamy texture; substitute with dairy-free butter for a vegan version.
Granulated sugar – Contributes sweetness and texture; can replace with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Light brown sugar – Adds moistness and a hint of caramel flavor; substitute with dark brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Eggs (room temperature) – Provides richness and moisture; for egg-free versions, use 1/4 cup applesauce per egg.
Vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
Semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips – Add chocolate flavor and texture; dark chocolate can be substituted for a richer taste.
Caramel flavored chips – Provide additional sweetness and texture; can be replaced with toffee chips for variation.
Sea salt flakes – For sprinkling on top; use kosher salt if flakes are unavailable.
Caramel sauce or dulce de leche – Optional for drizzling over cookies for extra indulgence; makes the cookies even more decadent!

Get ready to savor every last bite of these Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets
Begin by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture in your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies. Keep an eye on the oven’s temperature, as this will ensure an even bake for your cookies.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to mix thoroughly until homogenous, as this dry mixture forms the backbone of your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies. Set this bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you move on to the next step.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat ½ cup of room temperature unsalted butter alongside ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of light brown sugar. Start on low speed for about 2 minutes, then increase to medium until the mixture is light and fluffy—around 3–5 minutes. This creamy base is essential for the rich texture of your cookies, so be sure to mix well.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Once the butter and sugars are well combined, add in 2 room temperature eggs and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed until fully blended, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. This enriching step will add moisture and depth to your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies, ensuring they are decadent and flavorful.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture you set aside to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain the fudgy texture. Gently fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of caramel-flavored chips for an irresistible combination. This marks the formation of your cookie dough, and the inclusion of chocolate and caramel will elevate the flavor profile.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, drop dough portions onto your prepared baking sheets, making sure to space them about 2 inches apart. This spacing is key, as the cookies will spread during baking. You should have delightful mounds of dough that promise the decadence of Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies once baked—just imagine those gooey centers!

Step 7: Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Before baking, lightly sprinkle each cookie with sea salt flakes. This finishing touch will enhance the sweetness and add a savory touch that contrasts beautifully with the chocolate and caramel. It’s a small step that makes a huge impact on the overall flavor, so don’t skip this one for your cookies!

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they are ready when the edges are set, but the centers remain slightly soft—this will promise the fudgy texture that makes your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies irresistible. Keep a close watch, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. The cooling process allows the cookies to firm up, ensuring that you have a perfect balance of crispy edges and soft centers, ready to be enjoyed in all their chocolatey glory.

Step 10: (Optional) Drizzle with Caramel
For an extra touch of indulgence, consider drizzling your cooled cookies with caramel sauce or dulce de leche. This step is optional, but it adds visual appeal and enhances the overall flavor experience of your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies. Enjoy the overwhelming deliciousness with every bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply mix the dough as instructed and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, scoop and drop the chilled dough onto your baking sheets, then bake as directed. If you’d like to freeze the dough, portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to allow for a few extra minutes of baking time if you’re using frozen dough. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies with minimal effort, any time you crave that indulgent taste!

Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delightful alternations for your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to create a gluten-friendly version everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, plus non-dairy chocolate chips for a creamy yet vegan-friendly indulgence.
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for an enticing crunch that elevates the textural experience of every bite.
Heat It Up: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising warmth that beautifully contrasts the sweet chocolate and caramel layers.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cherries or cranberries to add a lovely tartness, enhancing the sweet and decadent cookie flavors wonderfully.
Double Chocolate Delight: Replace regular chocolate chips with a blend of dark and white chocolate chips for a truly rich, chocolaty explosion that would make any chocoholic sing!
Salted Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle extra salted caramel on top before serving to intensify that sweet-salty flavor profile, making each cookie feel like a special treat.
Personal Twist: Experiment with flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut in place of vanilla for a unique twist that transforms the cookie experience.

No matter how you decide to customize, these cookies are sure to impress! If you’re looking for more cookie inspiration, you might enjoy these Almond Cherry Cookies or the luscious Cottage Cheese Chocolate as well. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use eggs and butter at room temperature for a smooth, well-blended dough that ensures your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies bake evenly.
Careful Mixing: Avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients. This helps maintain the fudgy, soft center that makes these cookies irresistible.
Dough Chilling: Chill your cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and decrease spreading, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies in the oven; baking until the edges are firm but centers are set for optimal texture and fudginess.
Sea Salt Sprinkling: Don’t skip the sea salt sprinkle before baking; it adds a delightful flavor contrast to the sweet chocolate and caramel, elevating the overall taste of your cookies.

What to Serve with Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Indulging in these decadent cookies deserves a delightful meal to accompany them, balancing the richness and sweetness.

Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, fudgy cookies, creating an irresistible treat.
Fresh Berries:
Juicy strawberries or raspberries provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness, making each bite more delightful.
Coffee or Espresso:
The bitterness of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly, enhancing their chocolatey depth for a cozy pairing.
Milk:
A classic pairing, a tall glass of cold milk helps balance the sweetness, making every bite of cookie even more satisfying.
Chocolate Chip Cheesecake:
Serve alongside a slice of chocolate chip cheesecake to amplify the indulgent chocolate experience and impress guests with richness.
Salted Caramel Sauce:
Drizzle additional salted caramel over the cookies or use as a dip to elevate the dessert, intensifying its sweet-savory flavor profile.
Nutty Brownies:
Pairing with nutty brownies introduces a different texture while harmonizing the chocolate flavors, ensuring no sweet tooth is left unsatisfied.
Mint Hot Chocolate:
A warm, minty beverage adds a twist to the classic pairing, refreshing the palate while complementing the cookies’ sweetness.

How to Store and Freeze Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Adding a slice of bread helps retain moisture, keeping them soft and chewy.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they are tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container after 2 hours. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy the fudgy centers again, reheat by microwaving each cookie for about 10-15 seconds or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.

Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right ripeness for my ingredients?
Absolutely! For the best results, use room temperature butter and eggs. This helps create a smooth batter, leading to perfectly baked cookies. For the butter, it should be soft but not melted—think of it like a firm scoop of ice cream. For the eggs, leave them on the counter for about 30 minutes before baking.

What is the best way to store these cookies?
Very! To keep your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. I often add a slice of bread to the container; it keeps the cookies soft and chewy. If you’d like to chill them, keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly to avoid drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies? How?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies for up to 3 months. Start by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very! If your dough is stickier than expected, try chilling it for about 30 minutes; this will help firm it up and make it easier to handle when shaping. Additionally, a light dusting of flour on your hands while rolling the dough can also help. Remember, though, avoid adding too much flour, as this will affect the cookie’s fudgy texture.

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! If you’re adapting the Double Chocolate Salted Caramel Cookies for allergies, you can substitute the unsalted butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil for a vegan option. For egg-free versions, replace each egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce. Always check ingredient labels for potential allergens, and feel free to ask for specific substitutions based on dietary needs.

How long can I store cookies in the fridge?
Very! Your cookies can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent them from drying out. It’s a great way to keep those delicious treats on hand for late-night cravings, or whenever you need a sweet pick-me-up!