Caramel-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies are indulgent treats that combine rich chocolate cookie dough with a gooey caramel center. These cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings and are sure to impress friends and family!

Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup chocolate chips (optional)

For the Caramel Filling:

• 1 cup caramel candies (unwrapped)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Timing

Making Caramel-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10-12 minutes for baking, plus cooling time.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Filling

1. Melt Caramels: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the unwrapped caramel candies and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using, fold in the chocolate chips.

Step 3: Assemble the Cookies

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Form Cookie Balls: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough and flatten it in your palm. Place about 1 teaspoon of the caramel filling in the center, then wrap the dough around the filling to form a ball. Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
3. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
2. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy the delicious gooey caramel center!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Caramel-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies (per cookie, based on 24 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Cookie
Calories	180
Protein	2g
Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fiber	1g
Sugar	12g

Tips for Customization

• Different Fillings: Substitute caramel with chocolate ganache or peanut butter for a different flavor.
• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the dough for added texture.
• Sea Salt Topping: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies right after baking for a sweet and salty contrast.

Conclusion

Caramel-Stuffed Chocolate Cookies are a deliciously indulgent treat that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with a gooey caramel center. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to become a favorite among friends and family. Enjoy this delightful recipe!