If you’ve ever dreamed of a cookie that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the irresistible pull of gooey caramel and melty chocolate, you’re about to make that dream come true. This Peanut Butter Chocolate Caramel Cookies Recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending sweet and salty with a soft, chewy texture that will have you reaching for one after another. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, these cookies bring together simple ingredients to create a complex, indulgent treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple essentials that come together harmoniously to create those delightful textures and flavors we all crave. Each plays a vital role, from the creamy peanut butter providing richness to the soft caramel bits adding that luscious gooey surprise.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup, softened: Adds moisture and helps achieve a tender, chewy texture.
- Creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup: Brings that unmistakable nutty depth and richness to every bite.
- Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup: Sweetens the dough while helping cookies spread just right.
- Brown sugar, 1/2 cup, packed: Infuses a subtle caramel flavor and keeps the cookies moist.
- Large egg, 1: Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, aromatic touch.
- All-purpose flour, 1 1/4 cups: The base that provides structure to your cookies.
- Baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise perfectly for that soft-chewy balance.
- Salt, 1/4 teaspoon: Elevates the sweetness and balances the rich flavors.
- Semisweet chocolate chips, 3/4 cup: Offers melty bursts of chocolate throughout.
- Soft caramel bits (or chopped soft caramels), 3/4 cup: Gives those decadent pockets of gooey caramel that make these cookies unforgettable.
How to Make Peanut Butter Chocolate Caramel Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream Together the Butter and Sugars
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is key to creating a tender cookie with a perfect crumb.
Step 2: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to your creamed mixture. Beat until everything is well combined. The egg adds moisture and helps everything emulsify smoothly, while the vanilla infuses that warm, comforting aroma we all adore in cookies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt so your cookies bake beautifully without any uneven pockets.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients to Wet
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet peanut butter mixture, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so keep it gentle for that soft, chewy texture.
Step 5: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Caramel Bits
Gently fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and caramel bits. These goodies will create those irresistible pockets of melted chocolate and gooey caramel throughout your cookies, making each bite a heavenly surprise.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a tablespoon, scoop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the centers appear set but still soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Chocolate Caramel Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of your warm cookies for a brilliant sweet-and-salty contrast. For extra flair, press a few extra chocolate chips or caramel bits onto each cookie right before baking—they create a tempting glossy topping that’s irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a rich cup of coffee, or a creamy hot chocolate for a cozy treat experience. The creamy drinks complement the salty nutty notes and balance the sweetness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack these cookies on a decorative plate tied with a rustic ribbon for gifting. Alternatively, create a dessert platter mixing these cookies with peanut butter cups and salted caramels to wow your guests at any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain softness, place a slice of bread in the container—it will keep moisture where it belongs: in those delicious bites.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies for up to three months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to indulge.
Reheating
Reheat cookies briefly in a microwave (about 10-15 seconds) to soften the caramel and chocolate once again. For a crisper edge, pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using chunky peanut butter will add delightful little peanut pieces that enhance the texture, giving you an even nuttier crunch throughout your cookie.
What if I don’t have caramel bits? Can I substitute?
You can substitute chopped soft caramels or even a caramel sauce drizzle after baking. Just be aware that chopped caramels might melt differently, so keep an eye on baking time.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup. Make sure your baking soda is gluten-free, and you’ll have a delicious alternative!
How do I prevent the caramel from making the dough too sticky?
Using soft caramel bits or chopped caramels helps manage stickiness. If your dough feels too sticky, chilling it for 20 minutes before scooping can make handling easier.
Are these cookies good for making ice cream sandwiches?
Definitely! Their soft texture and rich flavor make them perfect for sandwiching your favorite ice cream. Just be gentle when assembling so they don’t crumble.
Final Thoughts
This Peanut Butter Chocolate Caramel Cookies Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites because it balances decadence with simplicity so beautifully. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just to treat yourself, these cookies bring joy in every bite. Give them a try—you’ll find yourself making these again and again!
