Description

Rich, chewy chocolate cookies filled with warm, liquid salted caramel centers. This simple 6-ingredient dessert is easier to make than takeout and freezes beautifully for make-ahead convenience.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups (340g) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup (240ml) salted caramel sauce

Instructions

Pour salted caramel sauce into a muffin tin or ice cube tray, filling each cup about ¾ full. Freeze for at least 1 hour until completely solid.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until just combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips using a spatula.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Remove frozen caramel balls from the freezer. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten slightly, place a caramel ball in the center, and wrap the dough around it to seal completely. Roll into a smooth ball.
Place dough balls on prepared baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each for spreading.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are set and golden but centers still look soft.
Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure caramel is frozen solid before wrapping to prevent leaking. Do not overbake; cookies continue to cook on the hot pan. For best texture, serve warm or reheat in microwave for 10 seconds. Can substitute gluten-free flour blend or use dairy-free/vegan alternatives for modifications.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 280
Sugar: 28
Sodium: 180
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 38
Fiber: 1
Protein: 4

Keywords: salted caramel cookies, chocolate chip cookies, gooey cookies, dessert recipe, easy baking, 6 ingredient dessert, make ahead dessert