Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the rich flavor of caramel and a hint of cinnamon. These cookies are perfect for baking enthusiasts and anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with something scrumptious. With a gooey caramel center and a warm, comforting spice, these cookies become a family favorite with each bite.
Why Make This Recipe
Baking is often about more than just the end product; it’s about the joy of creating something delicious to share. This recipe for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies not only delivers on flavor but is also an enjoyable process for bakers of all levels. The combination of ingredients is simple and accessible, while the results are undeniably impressive. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.
Additionally, the warm notes of brown sugar and cinnamon will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites family and friends to gather around. Plus, who doesn’t love a cookie with a gooey caramel surprise inside? The chewy texture and unique flavor profile make these cookies a valuable addition to any dessert table. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies!
How to Make Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
Creating these delectable cookies requires a few simple steps, and the result is definitely worth the effort. Here’s how you can make your very own batch of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 12-14 soft caramel candies (unwrapped) or 1/2 cup caramel baking bits
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon white sugar (for sprinkling)
- 1 pinch flaky sea salt (for salted caramel flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (to enhance the brown sugar notes)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for texture)
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
-
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
-
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until you achieve a fully combined mixture. Make sure everything is well blended for an even taste.
-
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until they are uniformly mixed.
-
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid over-mixing to keep your cookies tender.
-
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten them slightly. Take a caramel candy or a few caramel baking bits and place them in the center of each cookie. Carefully fold the dough around the caramel to encase it.
-
In a small bowl, mix together the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Roll each cookie in this mixture before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
-
Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the remaining white sugar for an extra sweetness.
-
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
-
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips for Success Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure that your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them blend better, resulting in a smoother dough.
-
Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft to handle, feel free to chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
-
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They are done when the edges are lightly golden. The center will continue to set as they cool.
-
Experiment with Caramel: If you’d like to enhance the caramel flavor, try using different types of caramel candies or even incorporating some chocolate chips for a delightful twist.
-
Mix It Up: For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating nuts like pecans or walnuts. These not only add a crunchy element but also complement the caramel beautifully.
Flavor Variations Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
-
Chocolate Drizzle: After the cookies have cooled, drizzle melted chocolate on top for a rich flavor contrast.
-
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy kick that pairs well with cinnamon.
-
Coconut Addition: Fold in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist that adds flavor and texture.
-
Dried Fruits: Include bits of dried cranberries or raisins in the mixture for a sweet and tangy flavor!
-
Pumpkin Spice: Substitute some of the flour with pumpkin puree for a fall-inspired variation, and add pumpkin pie spice in place of the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
These Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies make an excellent dessert for a variety of occasions. Serve them fresh from the oven with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful sundae. Pack them in a decorative box as gifts for friends and neighbors during the holidays. They’re also perfect for cookie exchanges, bake sales, or simply as a sweet treat with afternoon tea.
Consider pairing these cookies with hot beverages such as coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of cold milk. The combination of flavors complements the sweetness of the cookies while balancing their richness.
Storage and Freezing Instructions Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their chewy texture and rich flavor. Typically, the cookies will last for about a week, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days for optimal taste.
If you want to make your baking efforts last longer, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them slightly in the oven for a warm treat.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————-|————-|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 1.8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 75 mg |
FAQ About Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar in these cookies?
Yes, you can substitute all of the white sugar with brown sugar if you’d like! The cookies will have a deeper flavor and a chewier texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to also check your other ingredients, like baking soda and caramel candies, for any gluten-containing additives.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent spreading, ensure your butter is softened and at room temperature rather than melted. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can also help your cookies hold their shape.
What can I use instead of unsalted butter?
If you prefer, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version of these cookies. Just remember that different butters may result in slightly different textures and flavors.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in a cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips along with the caramel for a chocolatey indulgence. You can also flatten the dough and swirl in some chocolate before baking for a fun twist.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers appear slightly soft. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet. Avoid overbaking to ensure they remain chewy!
Final Thoughts
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that combines classic flavors with a delicious surprise. Simple to make and wonderfully flavorful, this recipe is sure to earn a place in your regular baking rotation. With tips for success and fun variations, you’ll find ways to customize this recipe to your liking! From cozy nights at home to festive gatherings, these cookies offer an irresistible taste of comfort and joy. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these amazing cookies, and enjoy every gooey, caramel-filled bite. Happy baking!
Print
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful cookies combining the sweetness of brown sugar, rich caramel, and a hint of cinnamon, featuring a gooey caramel center.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 12–14 soft caramel candies (unwrapped) or 1/2 cup caramel baking bits
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon white sugar (for sprinkling)
- 1 pinch flaky sea salt (for salted caramel flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon espresso powder (to enhance the brown sugar notes)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts (for texture)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, place a caramel in the center, and fold the dough around it.
- Mix brown sugar and cinnamon; roll each cookie in this mixture and place on the baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the tops with remaining white sugar.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For best results, use room temperature ingredients and chill the dough if too soft. Don’t overbake to ensure chewiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
