Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a bake sale, these cookies stand out with their gooey caramel center and crunchy pretzel bits. The addition of sea salt elevates the taste, making them truly special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Gooey Center: Each cookie features a delightful caramel filling that melts in your mouth.
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of salty pretzels and sweet chocolate creates a flavor explosion.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, holidays, or just because you deserve a treat!
• Make Ahead: These cookies store well and can be kept fresh for days.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies, having the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or hand mixer)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: A stand mixer makes mixing butter and sugar easy, ensuring a smooth batter.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and helps with even baking.
• Cooling rack: A cooling rack allows air circulation around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 cup butter (cold, unsalted, two sticks)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all purpose flour (add more 1 TBS at a time if dough is too sticky, or if cookies come out too flat)
• 1 TBS cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Mix-ins

• 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pretzels
• 15 soft caramels (cut in half)
• 1 TBS coarse sea salt

How to Make Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter

Cut your cold butter into slices. Place them into a large mixing bowl and beat with a mixer until smooth.

Step 3: Mix in Sugars

Add the brown sugar and white sugar to the bowl. Beat for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is creamy.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add in the eggs and vanilla extract. Mix until just combined to keep the dough light.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Dump in the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix on low speed until thoroughly combined.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Pretzels

Pour in the milk chocolate chips and chopped pretzels. Fold them gently into the dough to avoid breaking the pretzels.

Step 7: Prepare Caramels

Cut each caramel piece in half if they are big enough; otherwise, use whole caramels if they are smaller.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies

Measure out two heaping tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Press it flat, place a caramel piece in the center, then roll it back into a ball.

Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheets

Place nine cookie balls per baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone liners.

Step 10: Bake

Bake for about 8–12 minutes or until tops are golden brown. Let them bake for around ten minutes as that is usually perfect for these cookies.

Step 11: Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle coarse sea salt on top of each cookie while they’re still warm from the oven.

Step 12: Cool Down

Allow cookies to rest on the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely or enjoy warm!

Storage Tips

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container or ziplock bag for up to three to four days.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience with a few serving suggestions. Whether it’s a casual gathering or a special occasion, here are some creative ideas to enjoy your cookies.

With a Cold Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness of the cookies. The creamy texture of milk helps balance the salty and sweet flavors.

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a delicious dessert twist. Vanilla or caramel ice cream works perfectly!

Dipped in Hot Chocolate

• For a cozy treat, dip your cookies in a warm cup of hot chocolate. The melted chocolate complements the flavors beautifully.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cookies.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange these cookies on a beautiful platter with other desserts like brownies or fudge for an impressive dessert spread at gatherings.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

To achieve cookie perfection, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies turn out just right every time.

• Use cold butter – Starting with cold butter helps create a better texture in your cookies, resulting in chewy centers and crisp edges.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix until just combined to keep your cookies tender and avoid them becoming tough.
• Chill the dough – Allowing the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes can enhance flavors and prevent spreading during baking.
• Measure flour correctly – Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level off with a knife to prevent dense cookies.
• Watch baking time closely – Keep an eye on your cookies toward the end of baking. They should be golden around the edges but soft in the center.
• Store properly – To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if necessary.

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

While these cookies are delightful as is, serving them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory contrast that pairs well with sweet treats.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that offers both texture and flavor diversity.
4. Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage can bring out the caramel notes while providing a comforting accompaniment to your cookies.
5. Caramel Sauce – Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for those who can’t get enough of that sweet flavor!
6. Nut Mix – Provide assorted nuts as a crunchy side option, adding another layer of flavor that complements both saltiness and sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies perfect, it’s essential to avoid common baking pitfalls.

• Skipping the Butter Temperature: Using butter that is too soft or melted can lead to flat cookies. Ensure your butter is cold and cut into slices for the best texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, and incorrect measurements can ruin your cookies. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision, especially with flour and sugar.
• Ignoring Dough Consistency: If your dough is too sticky, it may affect the cookie shape. Add flour gradually until the dough holds its form but remains soft.
• Overbaking Cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be golden on the edges but soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
• Forgetting to Add Sea Salt: The sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavor, so don’t skip this step! Add it right after baking for a delightful finish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a non-stick skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries about making salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies.

Can I use different types of chocolate chips?

You can absolutely customize by using dark chocolate or white chocolate chips instead of milk chocolate. This will change the flavor profile slightly but will still be delicious!

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent spreading, ensure your butter is cold and consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.

What other toppings can I add to my salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies?

Feel free to experiment with toppings like crushed nuts, additional pretzels, or even drizzling melted chocolate on top after baking for extra flair!

How long do salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies last around 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

These salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies are an irresistible blend of sweet and salty flavors that everyone will love. Their gooey caramel center and crunchy pretzel bits offer a delightful texture that makes them stand out. Feel free to customize with various types of chips or nuts to suit your taste preferences—enjoy baking!