Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

There’s something incredibly irresistible about the combination of rich, fudgy brownie and gooey caramel, especially when topped with a sprinkle of sea salt. If you’re on the hunt for a delicious treat that combines the best of both worlds, look no further than these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor, making them the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply treating yourself, these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why It Works Every Time

The secret behind the success of these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The brownie mix provides a rich base, ensuring a fudgy interior, while the soft caramel squares create delightful pockets of sweetness. The melted butter adds a luxurious texture, and the eggs bind everything together for the perfect cookie consistency. Topping it all off with coarse sea salt elevates the flavor profile, creating a sweet and salty experience that is simply divine.

Your Shopping Guide

To make these delectable cookies, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 18 ounces brownie mix (500 grams, dry mix only, 1 standard box, 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)

Don’t forget to check your pantry for any other essentials like baking sheets and parchment paper!

Setup & Equipment

Before you start whipping up your Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies, gather the necessary tools:

• Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
• Whisk or spatula – To mix the batter smoothly.
• Baking sheets – To bake the cookies.
• Parchment paper – For easy baking and cleanup.
• Oven – Preheated to the right temperature for baking.

With everything in place, you’ll be ready to dive into the baking process!

Step-by-Step: Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking environment for your cookies.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

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

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 18 ounces of brownie mix with the 2 large eggs and the melted ½ cup of unsalted butter. Use a whisk or spatula to mix until well combined. You want a thick, fudgy batter.

Step 4: Add the Caramel Squares

Chop the 12 soft caramel squares into smaller pieces. Gently fold them into the brownie batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Scoop the Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop generous amounts of the batter onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Sprinkle with Sea Salt

Before baking, sprinkle a little coarse sea salt on top of each cookie. This step is crucial for that perfect sweet and salty combination.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set, but the centers will look slightly underbaked. This ensures a chewy texture.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

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

Customize for Your Needs

These Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies are highly versatile, allowing for various customizations:

• Add nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Use different chocolates: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for extra chocolatey goodness.
• Flavor variations: Experiment with adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or espresso powder to enhance the flavor.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the brownie mix with a gluten-free brownie mix for a gluten-free version.

Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own!

Problems & Prevention

Baking can sometimes be tricky, so here are a few common problems and how to prevent them:

• Cookies spreading too much: Make sure your butter is melted but not hot. Overly warm butter can lead to excessive spreading.
• Dry cookies: Avoid overbaking. Check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time.
• Caramels sticking: Use parchment paper to help with easy removal and prevent sticking.
• Uneven baking: Rotate your baking sheets halfway through the baking time for even results.

With a little attention, you can ensure your Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies turn out perfectly every time!

Shelf Life & Storage

To keep your Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Room temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Refrigeration: If you live in a warm climate, consider refrigerating them to prolong freshness.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Just be sure to let them thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

Ask the Chef

Can I use a different brownie mix?

Yes, you can use any brand of brownie mix you prefer! Just make sure it’s a standard 18-ounce box for the best results.

What should I do if I don’t have caramel squares?

If you don’t have caramel squares, you can use caramel sauce as a drizzle after baking instead. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as it can make the cookies overly sweet.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or a plant-based butter, and ensure the caramel is dairy-free.

How can I make these cookies more chocolatey?

For extra chocolate flavor, mix in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter. You can also add cocoa powder to the brownie mix for an even richer taste.

Try These Next

If you love these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies, consider trying out these delicious treats:

• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Peanut Butter Swirl Brownies
• Salted Caramel Cheesecake Bars
• Red Velvet Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, these Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly balances sweetness and saltiness. With their rich, fudgy texture and gooey caramel centers, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re sharing them with friends and family or enjoying them all to yourself, these cookies are an indulgent delight that will leave you craving more. Happy baking!