Name: Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies You’ll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (Provides richness and moisture; substitute margarine for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; coconut sugar can be used for a slightly different taste.); 1/2 cup White Sugar (Sweetens and aids in browning; no direct substitution necessary.); 2 large Eggs (Binds ingredients together; substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.); 2 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides cookie structure; substitute gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.); 1 tbsp Cornstarch (Keeps the cookies soft and chewy; substitute with an additional tablespoon of flour if unavailable.); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Helps cookies rise; no substitution recommended.); 1 tsp Baking Powder (Provides additional lift; no substitution recommended.); 1/2 tsp Salt (Enhances flavors; adjust for taste preferences.); 1 1/2 cups Milk Chocolate Chips (Adds sweetness and creaminess; substitute with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.); 15 pieces Soft Caramels (Adds gooey filling; use any equivalent soft caramel candies.); 1 1/2 cups Chopped Pretzels (Introduces salty crunch; substitute with crushed potato chips for a different texture.); 1 tbsp Coarse Sea Salt (Topping for added flavor; Himalayan pink salt can be used as a replacement.)

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Craving a cookie that delivers a sweet and salty twist with every bite? Let me introduce you to my Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies, where chewy dough meets crunchy pretzels and gooey caramel. Whipping up these irresistible treats is a breeze, making them a perfect pick for any occasion. Not only do they come together in just 25 minutes, but they also bring a delightful contrast of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking to impress at a gathering or simply indulge after a long day, these cookies are the perfect go-to dessert. Ready to dive into a world of sweet, salty goodness? Let’s get started!

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Why are Salted Caramel Cookies Irresistible?

Deliciously Unique: These cookies are a delightful fusion of sweet and salty, thanks to the crunchy pretzels and rich caramel.

Quick and Easy: Just 25 minutes standing between you and your new favorite cookie!

Versatile Treat: Feel free to mix up the chocolate chips or even swap in your favorite nuts for an extra crunch.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, parties, or holiday cookie platters – everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Irresistible Texture: Enjoy the chewy cookie base with a gooey caramel surprise in every bite, making these cookies truly unforgettable.

For more scrumptious ideas, check out my Chocolate Hazelnut Cheesecake or grab some delicious Cinnamon Sugar Chips for a tasty snack!

Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Base

Butter (1 cup) – Provides richness and moisture; substitute margarine for a dairy-free version.
Brown Sugar (1 cup, packed) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; coconut sugar can be used for a slightly different taste.
White Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens and aids in browning; no direct substitution necessary.
Eggs (2 large) – Binds ingredients together and provides structure; substitute with 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Enhances flavor; use pure vanilla for best results.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/2 cups) – Provides cookie structure; substitute gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Cornstarch (1 tbsp) – Keeps the cookies soft and chewy; substitute with an additional tablespoon of flour if unavailable.
Baking Soda (1 tsp) – Helps cookies rise; no substitution recommended.
Baking Powder (1 tsp) – Provides additional lift; no substitution recommended.
Salt (1/2 tsp) – Enhances flavors; adjust for taste preferences.

For the Sweetness

Milk Chocolate Chips (1 1/2 cups) – Adds sweetness and creaminess; substitute with dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
Soft Caramels (15, cut in half) – Adds gooey filling; use any equivalent soft caramel candies.

For the Crunch

Chopped Pretzels (1 1/2 cups) – Introduces salty crunch; substitute with crushed potato chips for a different texture.
Coarse Sea Salt (1 tbsp) – Topping for added flavor; Himalayan pink salt can be used as a replacement.

With these simple yet essential ingredients for your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’re just steps away from baking a sweet and salty indulgence that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for a non-stick surface. This ensures that your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies will bake evenly and slide off easily when they’re done.

Step 2: Cream the Butter
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup of cold, unsalted butter until it’s smooth and creamy, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The butter should be light in texture and pale in color, indicating it’s properly whipped. This step is crucial for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth cookie experience.

Step 3: Combine Sugars
Add 1 cup of packed brown sugar and 1/2 cup of white sugar to the butter. Beat the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes until it’s well combined and fluffy. You’ll notice the sugars adding a lovely sweetness and a touch of depth to your cookie batter for the Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next, mix in 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until just incorporated. The mixture should be smooth, without overmixing. These ingredients bind your cookies together, while the vanilla enhances the flavor, making every bite bursting with delight.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Gradually blend in 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix until the dough forms but still appears slightly soft. Pay attention to the texture as you combine; it should be thick and hold its shape well.

Step 6: Fold in the Goodness
Now, gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of milk chocolate chips and 1 1/2 cups of chopped pretzels. The dough will be a delicious medley of sweet and salty, perfect for your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies. Ensure an even distribution of all ingredients by mixing just until no dry flour remains visible.

Step 7: Form the Cookies
Scoop out 2-tablespoon portions of dough and flatten each slightly. Place half a caramel candy in the center of each piece. Carefully wrap the dough around the caramel, ensuring it is fully enclosed. This will create the gooey center that everyone will love when they take a bite.

Step 8: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Place the cookie balls on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them with about 2 inches apart, aiming for 9 cookies per tray. This spacing allows the cookies to spread without merging into each other. The anticipation will build as you prepare to bake your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 8-12 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; they’ll be ready when they turn golden brown around the edges. They may look slightly undercooked in the center, but the residual heat will complete the baking process.

Step 10: Finish and Cool
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and immediately sprinkle them with coarse sea salt. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes to firm up slightly before transferring them to a cooling rack. This cooling time is essential for achieving the perfect chewy texture in your finished Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies.

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How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and chewiness.

Freezer: For longer-term storage, freeze cookies in a single layer, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Ensure they are completely cool before freezing.

Reheating: Reheat frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, gooey indulgence. Enjoy your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies with that fresh-baked taste!

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies?

Indulging in these delightful cookies is a treat on its own, but pairing them with complementary dishes can elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream cools down the warmth of the cookies while enhancing their sweet and salty flavor profile.
Chocolate Milkshake: This rich, chocolatey drink adds a luscious touch, perfect for those who can’t get enough of sweets!
Fresh Berries: A handful of ripe strawberries or blueberries balances the richness of the cookies with a burst of fresh acidity and color.
Coffee or Espresso: The bitter notes of coffee provide a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel and chocolate, making each bite even more special.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Take it up a notch by drizzling a warm caramel sauce over the cookies. It adds extra gooeyness and a touch more indulgence.
Sea Salt Chocolate Bark: Crunchy, salty chocolate bark enhances the cookie’s textures, making for a perfect pairing for those who love that sweet and salty interplay.
Homemade Hot Cocoa: A warm mug of hot cocoa complements these cookies beautifully, offering coziness and a rich chocolate flavor that marries perfectly.
Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a creamy contrast, showcasing the cookies’ salty pretzels and sweet caramel.

Embrace the sweetness of these Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies with these delightful pairings, transforming any gathering into a memorable dessert experience!

Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these delectable cookies to your taste!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with margarine or coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option without compromising on flavor.
Lower Sugar: Use a sugar alternative like erythritol or stevia to cut down on sweetness while keeping the taste enjoyable.
Nuts Galore: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the salty pretzels beautifully.
Chocolate Twist: Swap out milk chocolate chips for dark chocolate to intensify the richness of your cookies and balance the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie dough for a tantalizing heat that contrasts beautifully with the caramel.
Caramel Alternative: For a different gooey center, use dulce de leche or even peanut butter for a twist that will delight your taste buds.
Crunchy Chips: Replace pretzels with crushed tortilla chips or even potato chips to introduce a unique texture and flavor experience.
Flavor Extracts: Experiment with different extracts like almond or rum to create a distinctive aroma that adds depth to your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Explore these variations and unleash your creativity! You might also enjoy making these equally delightful Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Twists or the rich Peanut Butter Cookies that are sure to leave everyone wanting more.

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Cold Butter Matters: Using cold butter straight from the fridge helps keep your cookies thick and chewy. Room temperature butter can lead to spreading.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your dry ingredients just until combined to ensure a tender cookie. Overmixing can create tough cookies rather than achieving the perfect texture.
Watch the Bake Time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should be golden around the edges but may appear slightly undercooked in the center.
Cooling is Key: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set and enhances delicious chewiness.
Reheat for Warmth: For a delightful experience later, reheat leftover cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds to revive that gooey caramel center.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap the chocolate chips for butterscotch or dark chocolate for a fun twist on your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies!

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients except the chocolate chips, pretzels, and caramels. Store the dough tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator, which helps maintain its freshness and prevents browning. Additionally, you can pre-scoop the cookies and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen cookie balls directly on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time for deliciously fresh cookies without the hassle!

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Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right caramel?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for soft caramels that melt beautifully in the cookie. I highly recommend using brands like Werther’s Original Soft Caramels. If you can’t find soft ones, you can cut larger caramel candies into smaller pieces—but keep in mind, harder caramels won’t melt as nicely and may lead to chewy centers instead of gooey ones.

How should I store the cookies?
To keep your Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If you find them getting a bit stale, just pop them in the microwave for a quick 10 seconds to achieve that warm, gooey goodness again. I often make a double batch and share them with friends, who can never get enough!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour, ensuring they don’t stick together. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If you notice your cookies are spreading too much, it could be due to using softened butter instead of cold butter. Another tip is to chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This way, the butter firms up again, helping maintain a thicker cookie shape. You can also try adding an extra tablespoon of flour to the dough to absorb some moisture.

Are these cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! These Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies contain common allergens like gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also replace butter with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free cookies. Always check labels on store-bought ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs, especially for guests with allergies.