These Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that you’ll want to make for any occasion. The combination of warm brown sugar and cinnamon, paired with gooey caramel, creates an irresistible cookie that is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just need a sweet snack, these cookies will impress everyone with their rich flavors and chewy texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of brown sugar, cinnamon, and caramel offers a unique taste experience that delights the senses.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple steps and common ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or just a cozy day at home, these cookies fit right in.
- Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or swap the caramel for chocolate to create variations everyone will love.
- Makes Plenty: With 24 cookies per batch, you can easily share or save some for later!
Tools and Preparation
Before you begin baking your delicious cookies, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand will make the preparation easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess. Choose a size that can hold all your cookie dough comfortably.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking and helps prevent cookies from sticking.
- Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet helps cookies bake evenly and makes cleanup effortless.
Ingredients
These cookies combine the rich flavors of brown sugar, cinnamon, and caramel for a sweet treat.
- 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)
How to Make Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
3. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 4: Shape Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls:
1. Flatten slightly.
2. Place a caramel candy or several caramel baking bits in the center of each cookie ball.
3. Fold the dough around it completely.
Step 5: Coat with Sugar Mixture
In a small bowl:
1. Mix together 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon.
2. Roll each cookie in this mixture before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Sprinkle remaining white sugar on top of each cookie:
1. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
2. Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies!
How to Serve Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
These delightful Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that balances the sweetness of the cookies with cold, creamy milk.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter alongside other treats for an impressive dessert table at parties or gatherings.
Warmed with Ice Cream
- Serve warm cookies topped with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious sundae experience.
As Part of a Gift Basket
- Package these cookies in a decorative box or basket with other homemade goodies for a thoughtful gift.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair the cookies with slices of apple or pear to add a refreshing contrast to their rich flavors.
How to Perfect Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
To ensure your Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies tender and chewy.
- Chill the dough if necessary: If your dough is too soft, chill it for 30 minutes before baking for better shaping.
- Watch your baking time: Keep an eye on the edges; they should be lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or sprinkling sea salt on top before baking for extra flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
These cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and spicy notes. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments.
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.Greek Yogurt Parfait
Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, tangy contrast to the cookies.Coffee or Tea
A warm cup enhances the flavors of cinnamon and caramel while providing a comforting experience.Cheese Platter
Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory note alongside the sweet cookies.Chocolate Fondue
Melted chocolate offers an indulgent dip option that pairs perfectly with each cookie bite.Spiced Nuts
Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and depth, complementing the flavors in the cookies beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky, especially with cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies.
- Not softening the butter: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Make sure to soften your butter at room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Combine the ingredients until just blended for a softer texture.
- Skipping the cooling time: Not letting cookies cool on the baking sheet can make them fall apart. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before transferring.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cookie texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
- Forgetting to measure ingredients: Measuring inaccurately can ruin your recipe. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
- Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 5-7 minutes for fresh-tasting warmth.
- Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Cover a pan over low heat and warm for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies.
How do I enhance the flavor of my Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies?
Adding espresso powder can deepen the brown sugar notes, making them richer and more flavorful.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
What can I substitute if I don’t have soft caramel candies?
You can use caramel baking bits as an alternative; they melt beautifully within the cookie.
Are Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies easy to customize?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits based on your preference.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure that your butter is softened correctly, and consider chilling the dough before baking if needed.
Final Thoughts
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. With their sweet caramel filling and warm cinnamon flavor, they make a delightful treat any time of year. Feel free to customize them with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies, a delightful treat that combines the rich sweetness of brown sugar with the aromatic spice of cinnamon and gooey caramel. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to prepare and sure to impress your friends and family. With a chewy texture and the option to customize with your favorite nuts or chocolate, these cookies will become a go-to recipe for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Each batch yields 24 mouthwatering cookies, making them perfect for sharing or savoring throughout the week.
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
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 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 oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, cream softened butter with brown and white sugars until fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually combine with the wet mixture without overmixing.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, flatten slightly, place a caramel in the center, then fold dough around it completely.
- Roll each cookie in a mixture of brown sugar and cinnamon before placing it on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden; cool on wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 142
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 79mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg