Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies: The Ultimate Cookie Recipe

Name: Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 0.75 cup butter, softened; 0.33 cup sugar; 0.33 cup brown sugar; 2 whole eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1.5 cup flour; 1.5 cup graham cracker crumbs; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp baking soda; 0.5 tsp baking powder; 0.5 cup graham cracker crumbs (for rolling); 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 8 oz butter, softened (for frosting); 2.5 cup powdered sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting); 1.25 cup brown sugar (for caramel topping); 0.5 cup whipping cream; 5 tbsp butter (for caramel topping); 1 tbsp vanilla extract (for caramel topping); 0.25 tsp salt (for caramel topping)

Introduction to Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

These Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect treat to satisfy your sweet tooth! With a creamy cheesecake frosting and a rich caramel drizzle, these soft, chewy cookies offer a delightful blend of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress!

A Personal Story Behind My Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Journey

Growing up, my kitchen was always filled with the aroma of freshly baked cookies. My grandmother had a special knack for creating unique desserts that brought joy to our family gatherings. One day, she combined two of my favorite things: cheesecake and cookies! This inspired me to create my own version with a salted caramel twist. Every bite of these cookies takes me back to those cherished moments spent in the kitchen with her.

What Makes This Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe Special?

What sets this recipe apart is the combination of soft, chewy cookies with a creamy cheesecake frosting and a homemade salted caramel topping. The graham cracker crumbs add a delightful crunch reminiscent of a classic cheesecake crust. Plus, the balance of sweet and salty flavors creates an irresistible treat that’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!

The Full Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

¾ cup butter, softened
⅓ cup sugar
⅓ cup brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups flour
1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ cup graham cracker crumbs (for rolling)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
8 oz butter, softened (for frosting)
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
1 ¼ cups brown sugar (for caramel topping)
½ cup whipping cream
5 tbsp butter (for caramel topping)
1 tbsp vanilla extract (for caramel topping)
¼ tsp salt (for caramel topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make for easy cleanup.
2. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Adding air into the mixture will help create soft cookies!
3. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
5. Slowly add 1 ½ cups of graham cracker crumbs and mix until blended. This will give your cookies a wonderful texture.
6. Use a 2-inch cookie scoop to form dough balls. Roll each ball in the remaining graham cracker crumbs for added flavor and texture, then place them on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Gently flatten each ball to about ¾ inch thick. This helps them bake evenly.
8. Bake one sheet at a time for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them; baking times can vary based on your oven!
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth. This will create a rich and creamy frosting.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for the perfect texture.
3. Using a piping bag with a round tip, frost the cookies in a circular motion from the center outwards for a beautiful presentation.

Caramel Topping

In a small saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, salt, and whipping cream. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool for 15-20 minutes to reach the right drizzle consistency.

Drizzle the caramel over each cookie using a spoon. Allow the caramel to set for 20-30 minutes before serving. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crushed graham crackers on top before the caramel sets!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

These salted caramel cheesecake cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a fun twist, you can add chocolate chips or nuts into the cookie dough for added flavor and texture. If you prefer a less sweet option, consider reducing the amount of powdered sugar in the frosting. These cookies can also be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week!

Frequently Asked Questions About Salted Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies before frosting and drizzling with caramel. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container.

How long do these cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container, they can last up to a week at room temperature.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, for a quicker option, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time. Just warm it slightly before drizzling on the cookies.