What kind of recipe is it?
Salted Caramel Chocolate Christmas Cookies are a delightful fusion of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for the holiday season.
These cookies boast a rich chocolate base, filled with gooey salted caramel, making each bite a decadent treat. Their festive appeal and indulgent taste make them an ideal addition to holiday cookie platters or gift boxes.
Aimed at chocolate lovers and those looking to impress during gatherings, these cookies aren’t just a dessert; they’re a holiday experience that brings joy to all!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups (240g) |
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | ¾ cup (75g) |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup (170g), softened |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup (200g) |
| Brown sugar | ½ cup (100g) packed |
| Large eggs | 2 eggs |
| Vanilla extract | 2 teaspoons |
| Semi-sweet chocolate chips | 1 cup (175g) |
| Salted caramel (store-bought or homemade) | ½ cup (120ml) |
| Flaky sea salt (for topping) | ½ teaspoon (optional) |
These ingredients create the perfect balance of flavors for your Salted Caramel Chocolate Christmas Cookies, ensuring a rich, indulgent taste with every bite. Enjoy baking these festive treats!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat the oven to 180 °C (350 °F) and adjust the oven rack to the middle position. This guarantees even baking of your cookies.
- Prepare a baking sheet (or two), lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and guarantee easy removal after baking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup (75 g) of unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together ¾ cup (170 g) of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar, and ½ cup (100 g) of packed brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed for 3–4 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until fully incorporated, giving a fragrant vanilla aroma.
- Gradually add the dry mixture from step 3 to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Fold in 1 cup (175 g) of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup (120 ml) of salted caramel using a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for spreading.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should be set around the edges but slightly soft in the center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven, and immediately sprinkle the warm cookies with ½ teaspoon of flaky sea salt (optional) for a savory finish.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will guarantee they don’t break apart while still warm.
- Let the cookies rest on the wire rack until completely cool for ideal texture. Enjoy the rich aroma of chocolate and caramel as they cool.
- If desired, store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, maintaining freshness and flavor.
Variations
- Nutty Delight: Fold in 1 cup (150 g) of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Twist: Substitute ½ cup (120 ml) of salted caramel with ½ cup (120 g) of pumpkin puree and add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use ¾ cup (170 g) of vegan butter or coconut oil in place of regular butter and 1 cup (175 g) of dairy-free chocolate chips for a completely dairy-free treat.
- Gluten-Free Cookies: Replace all-purpose flour with 2 cups (240 g) of gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities while keeping the texture delicious.
Tips on plating and presentation
After exploring some delicious variations of these cookies, let’s talk about how to present them beautifully.
I love using a rustic wooden board for an inviting touch. Arrange the cookies in neat stacks or clusters, showing off their delightful textures. Adding a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel on top accents their charm.
You can also use themed holiday plates that scream festive cheer. For an extra special touch, wrap each cookie in clear cellophane tied with a ribbon. This makes them look like little gifts themselves!
Don’t forget to include a personalized tag with a sweet message. Trust me, these simple plating tips will make your salted caramel chocolate cookies truly shine when gifting them.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
How can you elevate the enjoyment of salted caramel chocolate cookies? I love pairing these decadent treats with warm, spiced desserts like gingerbread cake or a pumpkin pie.
The balance of flavors works incredibly well, creating a delightful dessert spread. If you’re thinking of something lighter, consider serving them alongside a rich chocolate soufflé or even a creamy cheesecake.
They also shine when featured on a festive charcuterie board, surrounded by nuts, dried fruits, and tangy cheeses. Don’t forget to include some seasonal pastries for variety!
What drinks can I pair it with?
Pairing drinks with salted caramel chocolate cookies can elevate your tasting experience beautifully.
I love serving these cookies with a rich cup of coffee or espresso. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly complements the sweetness of the caramel.
If you prefer something lighter, a glass of cold milk is always a classic choice, balancing the flavors effortlessly.
For a festive twist, hot cocoa topped with whipped cream adds an indulgent touch that’s irresistible.
If you’re in the mood for something bubbly, sparkling cider or a sweet dessert wine can enhance the cookie’s flavors too.
Ultimately, choose a drink that makes your taste buds dance, and trust me, this delightful combination will become a holiday favorite!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Do Salted Caramel Chocolate Cookies Stay Fresh?
Salted caramel chocolate cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container. I always recommend enjoying them within that time to savor their deliciousness at its best!
Can I Freeze the Cookies for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the cookies for later! I usually wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They stay delicious for about three months, making them perfect for future cravings.
What Should I Do if My Dough Is Too Sticky?
If my dough’s too sticky, I add a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the consistency feels right. It helps make rolling and shaping much easier, ensuring my cookies turn out perfectly!
Are There Any Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
Absolutely, I’d suggest using sunflower seed butter or pumpkin seed butter as nut-free alternatives. They work well in recipes, providing similar textures and flavors, ensuring everyone can enjoy the cookies without worries about allergens.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of the Cookies?
I love enhancing cookie flavors! I usually add a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of sea salt, or even a sprinkle of espresso powder. These tweaks bring out the richness and elevate the overall taste beautifully!
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