Description
Soft, buttery cookies with a hint of cinnamon and a surprise caramel center — pure comfort in every bite!
Perfect for cozy evenings, holiday treats, or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
12 soft caramel candies, unwrapped
Instructions:
Preheat Oven (5 minutes)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare Cookie Dough (10 minutes)
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until combined.
Mix Dry Ingredients (3 minutes)
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add to the butter mixture, mixing until fully incorporated.
Form Cookies with Caramel Centers (10 minutes)
Scoop 1 ½ tablespoon portions of dough. Flatten slightly, place a caramel candy in the center, and wrap the dough around it to seal completely.
Bake (12–14 minutes)
Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake until edges are lightly golden.
Cool & Serve (15 minutes)
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey caramel center!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Baking Time: 12–14 minutes | Cooling Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 42–44 minutes
Kcal: ~210 kcal | Servings: 12 cookies
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cookies every time. First, ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature for proper creaming. In your large bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar for a full 3-4 minutes until pale and fluffy; this incorporates air for a softer texture. After adding the egg and vanilla, mix the dry ingredients thoroughly in a separate bowl to evenly distribute the leavening and cinnamon. When combining wet and dry, mix only until no flour streaks remain to avoid tough cookies. For forming, use a cookie scoop for even sizing. Flatten the dough ball in your palm, press the caramel firmly into the center, and carefully pinch the dough around it, ensuring it’s completely sealed to prevent leakage.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are versatile. For an elegant touch, dust them with powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar blend while still warm. They pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a hot cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a festive platter, arrange them alongside other cookies and fresh fruit.
How-to Summary
In summary, create these cookies by creaming soft butter and brown sugar, then mixing in egg and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients separately and blend into the wet mix. Take portions of dough, wrap them around individual caramel candies to seal, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes. Let cool slightly before serving to enjoy the molten center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted butter? Yes, but omit the added ½ tsp salt from the recipe to avoid over-salting.
My caramel leaked out. What happened? This usually means the caramel wasn’t fully sealed inside the dough. Ensure the dough is wrapped tightly with no cracks.
Can I make the dough ahead? Absolutely. Form the dough balls, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for a month. Bake from chilled, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of soft caramels? A small square of good-quality chocolate or a teaspoon of thick caramel sauce (frozen first) works well.
How do I store leftovers? Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for 10 seconds to restore the gooey center.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using melted or cold butter, which alters the dough’s texture.
- Overmixing the dough after adding flour, leading to dense cookies.
- Placing cookies too close on the baking sheet, causing them to spread into each other.
- Overbaking; remove cookies when edges are just set for a soft center.
- Not letting cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving, as they are very soft initially.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Caramel Butter Cookies are the epitome of a homemade treat, combining warm spice with a luscious, gooey surprise. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can reliably create impressive cookies that are sure to delight. Their perfect balance of flavor and texture makes them ideal for any occasion, from a simple family dessert to a standout item on your holiday cookie tray. Happy baking!