These Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are packed with rich chocolate chips, crunchy pretzels, and a gooey caramel center. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a delicious snack, these cookies will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Unique Flavor Combination: The balance of sweet caramel and salty pretzels creates a delightful contrast that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite chocolates or nuts for a personal touch!
• Perfect for Sharing: With 30 cookies in this recipe, there’s plenty to share with family and friends or save for later!
• Great for Any Occasion: These cookies are ideal for holidays, birthdays, or just an ordinary day when you need a sweet treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools to ensure everything is ready. Using the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving cookie perfection.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand Mixer: A stand mixer saves time and effort when mixing dough to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring every ingredient is perfectly balanced.
• Parchment Paper: Lining your cookie sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

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Ingredients

For these delicious Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (add more 1 TBS at a time if dough is too sticky)
• 1 TBS cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup butter (cold, unsalted, two sticks)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Mix-ins

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

Topping

• 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 in a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer:
1. Beat the butter until it starts to smooth out.
2. Add in both sugars and continue beating for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until just incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Dump in the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into the wet ingredients:
– Mix on low speed until combined without overmixing.

Step 6: Fold In Mix-ins

Pour in the chocolate chips and chopped pretzels:
– Gently fold them into the dough using a spatula.

Step 7: Prepare Caramels

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

Step 8: Form Cookies

Measure out batter using two heaping tablespoons:
1. Flatten each scoop of dough.
2. Place a caramel piece in the middle and roll the dough around it.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Place nine formed cookies on each lined cookie sheet:
– Bake for about 8-12 minutes or until golden on top and bottom. Aim for around ten minutes for best results.

Step 10: Add Sea Salt

Sprinkle coarse sea salt over warm cookies as soon as they come out of the oven.

Step 11: 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 Tip

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

Now you have everything you need to make delightful salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies! Enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

These salted caramel pretzel chocolate chip cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve them warm, or pair them with different beverages and snacks for an elevated experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness and richness of the cookies, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream between two cookies for a decadent dessert that’s perfect for warm days.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink enhances the flavors and makes for a cozy snack.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a serving platter with fruits, nuts, and other desserts. This variety will impress guests at parties or gatherings.

Warm from the Oven

• Serve straight from the oven for a gooey texture that highlights the melted caramel inside each cookie.

How to Perfect Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Perfecting these cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips for consistent results.

• Chill the Dough: Allow your dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape and enhances flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Baking powder and baking soda lose potency over time. Always check their freshness to ensure optimal rise.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: If your dough feels too sticky, gradually add more flour one tablespoon at a time until you achieve the right consistency.
• Monitor Baking Time: Each oven is different. Start checking your cookies at 8 minutes to prevent overbaking; they should be golden but soft in the center.
• Sprinkle Salt Generously: The coarse sea salt adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness. Don’t be shy about sprinkling it on just before baking!

Best Side Dishes for Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pairing these sweet treats with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of berries, melons, and citrus balances the sweetness of the cookies with refreshing flavors.
2. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda to contrast with the cookie’s sweetness while adding rich textures.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or additional pretzels into melted chocolate for a fun and interactive dessert experience.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits to serve as a lighter side dish that pairs nicely with rich cookies.
5. Nut Mix: A selection of salted nuts provides both crunch and saltiness that complements the sweet elements in the cookies.
6. Mini Cupcakes: Offer small cupcakes in various flavors to enhance dessert variety without overwhelming guests with sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common missteps. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Softened Butter: Many recipes call for softened butter, but using cold, unsalted butter is essential for the right texture. Cold butter helps the cookies hold their shape and results in a chewier cookie.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can lead to tough cookies. Combine wet and dry ingredients just until incorporated to keep them tender.
• Incorrect Measuring of Flour: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour, which can make cookies dry or dense.
• Skipping the Chilling Time: If your dough is too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can help with shaping. This also enhances flavors by allowing time for the ingredients to meld together.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on a cookie sheet can lead to uneven baking or sticking. Always line your sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store 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 baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Can I use dark chocolate chips instead?

Yes! Dark chocolate chips can add a rich flavor that complements the salted caramel wonderfully.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading?

Ensure that your butter is cold and avoid overmixing the dough. Chilling the dough also helps prevent spreading during baking.

Can I add nuts to these cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts would add great texture and flavor. Just fold them into the dough along with the chocolate chips and pretzels.

What if I don’t have pretzels?

You can substitute crushed crackers or even use additional chocolate chips if you prefer a sweeter cookie without the salty touch of pretzels.

Final Thoughts

These Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors that everyone will love. They’re perfect for any occasion and easy to customize with different chocolates or mix-ins. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet and salty with these Salted Caramel Pretzel Chocolate Chip Cookies. Each bite offers a gooey caramel center surrounded by rich chocolate chips and crunchy pretzels, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Ideal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Easy to make and customizable, you can add your favorite chocolates or nuts for a personal touch. With 30 cookies per batch, there’s plenty to share—or keep all to yourself!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 TBS cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups milk chocolate chips
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pretzels
• 15 soft caramels (cut in half)
• 1 TBS coarse sea salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cut cold butter into slices.
3. Cream the butter with brown and white sugars until smooth.
4. Add eggs and vanilla; mix until incorporated.
5. Gradually combine dry ingredients: flour, cornstarch, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
6. Fold in chocolate chips and chopped pretzels gently.
7. Prepare caramels by cutting them in half if necessary.
8. Measure out dough using two tablespoons; flatten each scoop, place a caramel in the center, and roll it into a ball.
9. Place on lined cookie sheets and bake for 8-12 minutes until golden.
10. Sprinkle with coarse sea salt immediately after baking.
11. Let cool on the pan for five minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 30g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 95mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor and shape retention. Feel free to substitute dark chocolate chips or add nuts like pecans for added flavor.