Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are an indulgent and irresistible dessert that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter, gooey caramel, and chocolate chips. These decadent cookies boast a delightful contrast of textures, with a soft and buttery cookie base, a luscious layer of peanut butter caramel, and a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Every bite of these cookies is a symphony of flavors, making them a treat that is sure to please anyone with a sweet tooth.
The history of peanut butter cookies can be traced back to the late 19th century when peanut butter itself was invented. However, the exact origin of peanut butter cookies is not well-documented. Peanut butter cookies became increasingly popular in the United States in the early 20th century, especially during the Great Depression, due to their affordability and rich flavor.
The addition of caramel to peanut butter cookies takes this classic treat to a whole new level of indulgence. Caramel is a confection made from heating sugar until it reaches a rich, golden-brown color and smooth consistency. Combining the creamy sweetness of peanut butter with the gooey goodness of caramel creates a heavenly combination that elevates the humble peanut butter cookie to a gourmet delight.
INGREDIENTS
COOKIES:
- ¾ cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups chocolate chips
PEANUT BUTTER CARAMEL:
- 14 ounces soft caramels
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
INSTRUCTIONS
- PREHEAT OVEN & PREPARE PAN
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Line a 9×13 inch pan with aluminum foil and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- MIX COOKIE DOUGH
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, packed brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the mixture, and continue mixing until well combined.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking soda to the bowl, and mix until the dough comes together.
- Fold in the chocolate chips to add a delightful chocolatey touch to the cookies.
- SPREAD HALF OF THE DOUGH
- Spread half of the cookie dough into the bottom of the prepared 9×13 inch pan.
- Bake the first layer of dough for 8-9 minutes, creating a partially baked base for the cookies.
- PREPARE PEANUT BUTTER CARAMEL
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the soft caramels and heavy cream.
- Microwave the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring each time to ensure it doesn’t burn, until the caramels are melted and smooth.
- Add the creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract to the melted caramel mixture, and mix until the caramel is infused with the delightful flavor of peanut butter.
- DRIZZLE & CRUMBLE
- Drizzle the peanut butter caramel on top of the partially baked cookie layer, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
- Crumble the remaining cookie dough on top of the caramel layer, creating a crumbly topping that will add texture to the finished cookies.
- FINISH BAKING
- Bake the assembled cookies for an additional 18-20 minutes or until the top layer is lightly browned.
- COMPLETELY COOL & SERVE
- Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to completely cool in the pan before cutting them into squares.
- Once cooled, these decadent Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Whether you’re serving these cookies at a gathering or treating yourself to a delightful indulgence, Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are sure to be a hit with their rich flavors and satisfying textures. Savor the delightful combination of peanut butter, caramel, and chocolate in every heavenly bite!
