Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home? If you’re a cookie enthusiast looking to elevate your baking game, you’re in for a treat. These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cookies are a decadent twist on a classic favorite, combining the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter, luscious caramel bits, and a hint of sea salt to balance the sweetness. Perfectly soft and chewy with a delightful crunch from mini chocolate chips and peanut butter candies, these cookies are destined to become your new go-to indulgence.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of peanut butter and caramel creates a rich, buttery flavor that’s complemented by bursts of chocolate and a sprinkle of sea salt.
- Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy on the inside with slightly crispy edges—cookie perfection!
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are beginner-friendly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for parties, holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or milk.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup caramel bits
- Peanut butter candies, for topping
- Sea salt, for sprinkling
Note: Using instant vanilla pudding mix not only adds flavor but also keeps the cookies incredibly moist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cream the Butters
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Add Sugars and Pudding Mix
Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and instant vanilla pudding mix to the bowl. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and creamy.
4. Incorporate the Eggs
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and pinch of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Mix in the Goodies
Fold in the mini chocolate chips and caramel bits, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. Prepare the Cookie Dough Balls
Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Add Toppings
Gently press a few peanut butter candies into the top of each dough ball for extra flavor and crunch.
9. Sprinkle with Sea Salt
Lightly sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over each cookie. This will enhance the caramel flavor and add a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
10. Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
11. Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set and maintain their shape.
Tips for the Best Cookies
- Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Dough: If your kitchen is warm, consider chilling the dough for 15-20 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well!
Variations to Try
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped peanuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- Drizzle Delight: After baking, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the cooled cookies.
- Oatmeal Addition: Replace half a cup of flour with oatmeal for a heartier texture.
Conclusion
These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re an experience. The balance of sweet and salty, combined with the rich textures, makes them irresistible. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.
So, tie on that apron and get baking! Your taste buds will thank you.
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Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cookies
Description
Indulge your sweet tooth with a delicious twist on classic cookies. These Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cookies are packed with rich flavors, including creamy caramel bits and crunchy chocolate chips. Perfectly soft and chewy, they are guaranteed to become your new favorite treat!
Ingredients
– 1 cup of butter, softened
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1 box instant vanilla pudding mix
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Pinch of salt
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup caramel bits
– Peanut butter candies, for topping
– Sea salt, for sprinkling
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth.
3. Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and instant vanilla pudding mix, and continue mixing until the mixture is light and creamy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually incorporate the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and pinch of salt into the wet ingredients until the dough forms.
6. Stir in the mini chocolate chips and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
7. Roll tablespoon-sized amounts of dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Press a few peanut butter candies into the top of each cookie dough ball for added crunch and flavor.
9. Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
11. Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.