Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/4 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon alcohol-free vanilla extract
- 1 cup soft caramel bits (like Kraft Caramels, unwrapped)
- 1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt (plus extra for topping)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes). Beat in the egg and alcohol-free vanilla extract until just combined.
- Step 2: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and the 1/2 teaspoon of flaky sea salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
- Step 3: Gently fold in the caramel bits using a spatula. Scoop the dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Optionally, press 2-3 extra caramel bits onto the top of each dough ball for extra caramel pull.
- Step 4: Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the centers are still soft and slightly undercooked. Baking time may vary slightly depending on oven temperature.
- Step 5: Immediately upon removing the cookies from the oven, sprinkle a pinch of the extra flaky sea salt over the top of each cookie. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container for up to 4 days, layering them with parchment paper so the soft caramel bits don’t stick together.
- For an instant gooey caramel experience, briefly microwave cooled cookies for 8-10 seconds right before serving.
- Serve these warm cookies paired with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a mug of strong coffee to perfectly balance the rich salted caramel sweetness.
- The crucial step is to cream the softened butter and sugars thoroughly (3 minutes is ideal) until they are visibly light and fluffy, ensuring a tender cookie structure.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American