Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies take the classic chocolate chip cookie to the next level by adding a gooey caramel center. The perfect balance of sweet, chewy, and rich flavors, these cookies are an irresistible treat. They are ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing guests at a party or holiday gathering.

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
12 caramel candies, unwrapped

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until well combined.
Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
To assemble the cookies, take a tablespoon of dough, flatten it into a disc, and place a caramel candy in the center. Encase the caramel with the dough, forming a ball around it.
Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24 cookies
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Nutty Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a nutty crunch.
Sea Salt: Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for an added touch of flavor.
Chocolate Variety: Substitute semisweet chocolate chips with milk or dark chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes to restore the soft, gooey center.

10 FAQs

Can I use different types of caramel candies?
Yes, you can use caramel squares or soft caramel chews, but ensure they are unwrapped before using them in the cookies.
What if I don’t have parchment paper?
You can use a silicone baking mat or lightly grease your baking sheet as an alternative.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the cookie dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 2 months.
What should I do if the caramel leaks out during baking?
Make sure the dough fully encases the caramel candy, but if it leaks, don’t worry! It will still taste delicious.
Can I use a different type of sugar?
You can use white sugar instead of brown sugar, but brown sugar gives the cookies a chewier texture and a richer flavor.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Margarine can be used, but it may change the texture and flavor slightly. Butter is recommended for the best results.
How can I make these cookies softer?
Use a bit less flour and keep an eye on the baking time, as overbaking can make the cookies too crisp.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cookies gluten-free.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough in individual dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer. Just add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Why are my caramel stuffed cookies spreading too much?
Ensure that the dough is chilled before baking, as this will help prevent excessive spreading. You can chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

Caramel Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies are a decadent and irresistible twist on the traditional chocolate chip cookie. With a soft and chewy cookie exterior and a warm, gooey caramel center, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or saved for later, they are guaranteed to become a favorite in your cookie repertoire.