Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Welcome to a cookie experience like no other – Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies! These delightful treats are a harmonious blend of rich brown sugar, warm cinnamon, and gooey caramel centers that surprise your taste buds with each bite. Perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday trays, these cookies are a must-have for anyone who craves comfort and delight in a single treat.

I discovered these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies on a crisp autumn day, and they have since become a beloved favorite at family get-togethers. The magic lies in the molten caramel hidden inside each cookie, creating a gooey center that is pure bliss. The aroma of cinnamon sugar as they bake is simply irresistible, making them a treat that everyone will be clamoring for.

Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, these cookies are a true delight. With simple swaps and storage tips provided, you can customize these cookies to your liking and enjoy them for days to come. So, gather your ingredients, wrap the dough around the caramels, and get ready to indulge in the perfect combination of flavors and textures that these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies offer.

Quick Benefits

• Molten Caramel Surprise: Every bite of these cookies contains a gooey caramel center that adds a delightful surprise and burst of flavor.
• Warm and Cozy Comfort: The combination of brown sugar, cinnamon, and caramel creates a comforting and nostalgic taste that is perfect for chilly days and holiday gatherings.
• Versatile Options: You can customize these cookies by swapping caramels for chocolate, using coconut sugar for a nutty twist, or omitting nuts for a different texture.
• Long-Lasting Freshness: Properly stored, these cookies can maintain their softness and flavor for up to five days, making them a convenient make-ahead treat for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor Combination: The rich brown sugar and cinnamon in the dough create a comforting and aromatic base that complements the gooey caramel center perfectly.
• Surprise Gooey Center: The molten caramel hidden inside each cookie provides a delightful surprise with every bite, making them a unique and decadent treat.
• Perfect for Gatherings: These cookies are ideal for cozy gatherings, holiday trays, or family get-togethers, as they offer a warm and comforting treat that everyone will love.
• Versatile: You can customize the recipe by swapping caramels for chocolate chunks, using coconut sugar for a different flavor, or omitting nuts for a nut-free option, making it adaptable to different preferences and dietary needs.
• Long-Lasting Delight: The cookies can be stored for up to five days in an airtight container, allowing you to enjoy their soft and chewy texture over time or freeze them for longer storage.
• Perfect Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with hot apple cider, a steaming latte, or pair them with other desserts on a holiday table for a delightful treat that complements various beverages and dishes.
• Bake Sale Favorite: These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a standout treat at bake sales or as an impressive addition to any dessert spread.

Ingredients for Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Cookie Dough

• 280 grams all-purpose flour
• 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 large egg
• 160 grams packed light brown sugar
• 50 grams white sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 225 grams unsalted butter, softened

Filling and Topping

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 12–14 soft caramel candies, unwrapped, or 70 grams caramel baking bits
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon white sugar, for sprinkling

Optional Add-ins

• 25 grams finely chopped pecans or walnuts
• 0.5 teaspoon espresso powder
• A pinch of flaky sea salt, for salted caramel flavor

Pro Tips for Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

For the perfect Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies, ensure each dough ball completely encloses the caramel to prevent leaks and ensure a gooey center in every bite. Consider using caramel baking bits as a convenient alternative to unwrapping individual caramels, using about half a tablespoon per cookie for the right amount of sweetness. Don’t forget to add a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the warm and aromatic flavors of brown sugar and caramel, elevating the overall taste of the cookies.

To add an extra layer of texture and flavor to your cookies, incorporate finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch, and sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt for a salted caramel contrast that will enhance the overall taste profile. Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness for up to five days, ensuring they stay fresh and delicious. If you prefer, you can chill the dough overnight, shaping and filling with caramel just before baking for the best results and freshest cookies possible.

How to Make Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Baking Trays

Preheat the oven to 175°C and prepare two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Combine the egg and vanilla extract, scraping the sides of the bowl to mix thoroughly.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Combine flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a separate bowl, whisk together.

Step 5: Form Cookie Dough

Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients gradually, mixing until a dough forms.

Step 6: Shape and Fill Cookies

Portion dough into 2-tablespoon balls. Flatten each, place a caramel candy in the center, wrap dough around it, and roll into a smooth ball.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Combine brown sugar, white sugar, and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball in the mixture to coat evenly.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Place dough balls on prepared trays with 5 cm spacing between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are set.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Storage Tips

Once your brown sugar cinnamon caramel cookies have cooled completely, it is important to store them properly to maintain their freshness and texture. Place the cookies in a tin or airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Stored this way, the cookies can be enjoyed for up to five days at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookie dough balls on a tray before transferring them to a bag, or freeze the baked cookies well wrapped. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen cookies at room temperature.

To add a different twist to your cookies, consider swapping the caramel centers for chocolate chunks or using coconut sugar instead of brown sugar for a nuttier flavor profile. If nuts are a concern, you can easily omit them or substitute with seeds like pepitas. These versatile cookies can be customized to suit different preferences while still delivering a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Enjoy them with a warm beverage like hot apple cider or a latte for a comforting treat, and consider drizzling melted white chocolate over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider swapping the caramel candies with chocolate chunks for a different melty center. The chocolate will provide a rich and decadent surprise in each bite. Additionally, if you prefer a slightly nuttier flavor, you can substitute coconut sugar for the brown sugar. This substitution will add a subtle nuttiness to the cookies without compromising their overall deliciousness.

If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, you can easily skip the chopped pecans or walnuts to make the cookies nut-free. Alternatively, you can include seeds like pepitas for a different texture and flavor profile. The cookies will still be delicious and satisfying without the nuts. Moreover, if you want to enhance the salted caramel flavor, be sure to sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking. The salt will provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the caramel, elevating the overall taste experience.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of these delectable brown sugar cinnamon caramel cookies, try serving them in a rustic wooden crate lined with colorful fall leaves or a cozy plaid napkin. Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, showcasing their caramel-filled centers. For an added touch, drizzle some melted white chocolate in a zigzag pattern over the cookies and sprinkle with a dash of cinnamon sugar for a beautiful finish.

For a charming dessert display, pair these cookies with a steaming pot of mulled cider or a tray of assorted autumn fruits like crisp apples and juicy pears. Create a warm ambiance by lighting some cinnamon-scented candles nearby, enhancing the cozy and inviting feel of your gathering. Your guests will be delighted by the combination of flavors and textures, making these cookies a memorable treat for any seasonal celebration.

FAQs for Irresistible Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Can I use caramel baking bits instead of unwrapped caramels?

Yes, caramel baking bits work well. Use about half a tablespoon per cookie as a replacement for wrapped caramels.

Why is cinnamon added to the cookie dough?

Cinnamon gives a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the brown sugar and caramel, adding extra depth to each bite.

What is the purpose of adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the cookies?

Chopped pecans or walnuts provide a delightful crunch, while a pinch of flaky salt creates a salted caramel contrast.

How should I store these brown sugar cinnamon caramel cookies?

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain their softness.

Conclusion

As you wrap up your baking session and your kitchen fills with the wonderful aromas of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies, remember that these sweet treats are not just a dessert; they are a warm hug in cookie form. The combination of rich brown sugar, comforting cinnamon, and gooey caramel centers creates a symphony of flavors that will surely bring smiles to those who indulge in them. So, go ahead, take a bite of these delightful cookies, savor the melty caramel surprise, and share these goodies with your loved ones.

In the world of cookies, these Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies truly stand out as a unique and unforgettable treat. Their soft, chewy texture combined with the luscious caramel center makes them a must-have on any dessert table. So, whether you’re baking these for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, know that these cookies are more than just a recipe—they are a delightful experience that you can enjoy time and time again. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies sweeten your day!