Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies
There’s something undeniably comforting about the combination of peanut butter and caramel, and when these two flavors come together in cookie form, magic happens. These Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich, nutty flavor, making them the perfect treat for any occasion. With just the right amount of sweetness and a delightful gooeyness from the caramel, these cookies will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Why This Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies Stands Out
What makes these Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies truly special is the balance of flavors and textures. The creamy peanut butter adds a rich depth, while the chunks of Hershey’s Caramel Kisses bring a burst of sweetness that melts in your mouth. The combination of both granulated and brown sugars creates a perfect chewy texture that is hard to resist. These cookies are not just another peanut butter cookie; they’re a delightful treat that elevates the classic flavor profile to something extraordinary. Plus, they come together quickly, making them an ideal option for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
Ingredients at a Glance
To create these delicious Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 eggs
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/3 cups Hershey’s Caramel Kisses, chopped
Gear Checklist
Before you start baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:
- Mixing Bowls: For mixing the dough.
- Electric Mixer: To cream the butter and sugars together easily.
- Cookie Sheets: Non-stick or lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
- Spatula: To mix in the dry ingredients and fold in the caramel kisses.
Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies Made Stepwise
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Step 5: Fold in Caramel Kisses
Gently fold in the chopped Hershey’s Caramel Kisses into the cookie dough using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Substitutions by Category
If you find yourself missing an ingredient or two, here are some substitutions that work well:
- Butter: You can use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Peanut Butter: Almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be used as alternatives.
- Granulated Sugar: Coconut sugar or cane sugar can replace granulated sugar.
- All-Purpose Flour: A gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free option.
Problems & Prevention
Baking is a science, and sometimes things don’t go as planned. Here are common issues and how to prevent them:
- Cookies Spread Too Much: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Dry Cookies: Be careful not to overmeasure the flour; spoon it into the measuring cup and level off.
- Caramel Kisses Don’t Melt: Make sure to chop them into small pieces for even melting.
- Cookies Burned on the Bottom: Use light-colored baking sheets and keep an eye on them while baking.
Storage & Reheat Guide
To keep your Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their softness.
Helpful Q&A
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a nice texture to your cookies. Just be aware that the cookies may be less smooth in texture.
What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?
You can use flaxseed meal or applesauce as a substitute for eggs. For one egg, use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, or 1/4 cup of applesauce.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, by using vegan butter and an egg substitute like flaxseed meal or applesauce, you can create a vegan version of these cookies. They’ll still be delicious!
What if I can’t find Hershey’s Caramel Kisses?
If you can’t find them, you can chop up any soft caramel candy, or even make your own with this 1 Ingredient Caramel Sauce recipe. Just ensure the pieces are small enough to melt well in the cookies.
If you love these Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies, you’ll want to try these related recipes:
Ready to Cook?
Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to gather your ingredients and bake a batch of these delightful Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies. Remember to enjoy the process and share your creations with the ones you love. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and rise perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped Hershey’s Caramel Kisses into the cookie dough using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared cookie sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to three months, layered with parchment paper.
- Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to regain softness.
