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Crispy Salted Caramel Cookies

crispy salted caramel cookies - featured image

These crispy salted caramel cookies feature golden, crunchy edges and a gooey homemade caramel topping with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. They’re quick to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • For caramel topping:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
  2. In a large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
  3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and fine sea salt.
  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until edges are golden and centers are just set.
  8. Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 3 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
  9. While cookies cool, make caramel: Melt sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring until deep golden brown (4-5 minutes).
  10. Add butter and stir until combined.
  11. Remove from heat, slowly add heavy cream while whisking (it will bubble), then add vanilla extract. Return to low heat for 1 minute, stirring until smooth.
  12. Spoon warm caramel onto each cookie and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
  13. Let cookies cool completely before stacking or serving.

Notes

For extra crunch, bake cookies on the longer side. Chill dough for 30 minutes if cookies spread too much. Add sea salt immediately after caramel for best adhesion. Dough can be made ahead and chilled overnight for enhanced flavor. For gluten-free or dairy-free adaptations, substitute flour and butter/cream as needed.

Nutrition

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