Caramel Cookies are a delectable treat that combines the rich flavors of molasses and spices with the sweet indulgence of caramel candies. These cookies are soft, chewy, and filled with warm, aromatic spices that evoke feelings of comfort and coziness. With a surprise caramel center, they are sure to delight anyone with a sweet tooth and a love for classic holiday flavors.
The history of Caramel Cookies can be traced back to the traditional gingerbread cookies that have been enjoyed for centuries. Gingerbread cookies, often spiced with ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, were a popular treat during the holiday season in many cultures around the world.
Over time, bakers and home cooks experimented with adding various flavors and fillings to the classic gingerbread cookie recipe. The addition of molasses and caramel candies not only added a delightful sweetness but also created a gooey and indulgent center that made the cookies even more irresistible.
Today, Caramel Cookies have become a beloved holiday treat enjoyed by families and friends during the festive season. The combination of warm spices, chewy texture, and surprise caramel center makes them a delightful addition to cookie exchanges, holiday gatherings, or simply as a special treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa.
INGREDIENTS
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup molasses
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 20 salted caramel chocolate candies
INSTRUCTIONS
- PREPARE THE COOKIE SHEET
- Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- CREAM BUTTER AND SUGAR
- In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and well combined.
- Add the molasses and mix until the mixture is smooth.
- Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- MIX THE DRY INGREDIENTS
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, and flour.
- INCORPORATE THE DRY INGREDIENTS
- Mix the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a smooth dough forms.
- CHILL THE DOUGH
- Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for 30-45 minutes to firm it up.
- PREPARE THE COOKIE DOUGH BALLS
- Scoop 2 tablespoons of the chilled dough and place a salted caramel chocolate candy in the center.
- Wrap the dough over the candy, rolling between your hands to form a ball. Make sure the candy is fully covered, so it’s not showing.
- CHILL THE COOKIE DOUGH BALLS AGAIN
- Place the formed cookie dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet.
- Chill the dough balls for at least 2 hours. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
- PREHEAT OVEN AND BAKE
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Line a second cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Split the chilled cookie dough balls evenly between the two cookie sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 11-14 minutes, until they are no longer glossy in the center and the bottoms are just getting golden brown.
- COOL AND ENJOY
- Cool the cookies completely on the cookie sheets before removing them.
- Once cooled, these delightful Caramel Cookies are ready to be enjoyed by all!
