Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

There’s something magical about the combination of rich chocolate and sweet caramel, especially when you throw in a sprinkle of coarse sea salt. These Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies deliver all the delightful flavors of a fudgy brownie wrapped up in a chewy cookie, making them the ultimate treat for any dessert lover. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to impress.

Reasons to Love Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

– **Decadent Flavor**: The deep chocolate flavor from the brownie mix pairs beautifully with the soft caramel and a hint of salt.
– **Easy to Make**: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
– **Versatile Treat**: Perfect for a cookie platter, lunchbox treats, or an indulgent after-dinner dessert.
– **Customizable**: You can easily tweak the recipe to include nuts, chocolate chips, or different types of caramel.

Ingredient List

• 18 ounces brownie mix (510 grams, dry mix only, Ghirardelli recommended)
• 2 large eggs (100 grams)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (57 grams, melted, or 1 stick)
• 12 soft caramel squares (122 grams)
• Coarse sea salt (for topping, to taste)

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Baking Sheet: A standard baking sheet will work perfectly for these cookies.
• Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
• Mixing Bowls: One for mixing the dough, and optionally one for melting the butter.
• Whisk or Spoon: To mix the ingredients together smoothly.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success.

Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly chewy.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Melt the Butter

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the brownie mix.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the brownie mix, melted butter, and eggs. Stir until the mixture is well combined and no dry mix remains.

Step 5: Add Caramel

Chop the soft caramel squares into smaller pieces and gently fold them into the brownie mixture. This will create gooey pockets of caramel in each cookie.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread while baking.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before baking, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of each cookie. This enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Keep an eye on them, as oven times may vary.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Smart Substitutions

• Butter: For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative.
• Brownie Mix: If you prefer homemade, substitute with your favorite brownie recipe.
• Caramel: Use homemade caramel sauce or a vegan caramel for alternative flavors.
• Sea Salt: Try flavored salts like smoked salt for a unique twist.

Chef’s Rationale

These Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies are designed to be the perfect balance of rich chocolate and sweet caramel. The use of a quality brownie mix like Ghirardelli guarantees a decadent base that saves you time without compromising on flavor. Incorporating soft caramel squares ensures that each cookie has gooey bits of caramel, while the coarse sea salt enhances the sweetness and provides a delightful contrast. This recipe is designed for ease, allowing even novice bakers to create cookies that taste like they came from a gourmet bakery.

Shelf Life & Storage

To keep your Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Just remember to let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Questions People Ask

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before scooping and baking.

What can I use instead of soft caramel squares?

If you can’t find soft caramel squares, you can use caramel bits or homemade caramel sauce. Just make sure to adjust the amount based on your personal preference for sweetness and gooeyness.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

To make Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies gluten-free, use a gluten-free brownie mix. Be sure to check the label for any additional gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?

Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch and flavor to these cookies. Just fold them in with the caramel for a delicious variation.

Keep Cooking

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Bring It Home

The beauty of these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies lies in their simplicity and flavor. They can easily become a staple in your baking repertoire, bringing joy and satisfaction to every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. The combination of rich chocolate, gooey caramel, and a hint of sea salt is truly irresistible. So gather your ingredients and get ready to bake—your taste buds are in for a treat!