Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies: A Decadent Treat

There’s no denying that cookies are one of the most beloved desserts, and when you combine the classic appeal of chocolate chip cookies with the richness of salted caramel and the crunch of pecans, you get a treat that’s truly irresistible. Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies are a perfect balance of sweet and salty, chewy and crunchy, making them the ultimate indulgence for any cookie lover.

These cookies are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family gathering, a special celebration, or just a cozy night in. With every bite, you get the delightful combination of semi-sweet chocolate, toasted pecans, smooth caramel, and a sprinkle of flakey sea salt. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies from scratch.

Why You’ll Love Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies are a game changer for anyone who loves sweet and salty combinations. The chewy texture of the cookie base pairs perfectly with the crunchiness of the pecans and the smooth, sweet richness of the chocolate chips. The addition of salted caramel sauce in the center of each cookie elevates the flavor profile with a deliciously gooey surprise, while the sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top rounds out the flavors and adds a satisfying salty kick. This cookie recipe takes the best of all dessert worlds and puts them together in one perfect bite.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, these cookies are straightforward to make and come together in less than 45 minutes. Plus, with the ability to bake them in batches, you’ll have plenty of cookies to share (or keep all to yourself!).

Ingredients for Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies use simple ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create these indulgent treats:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookie dough, providing structure and texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and gives them the right texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the other ingredients.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a rich, buttery base for the cookies.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve the perfect cookie texture.
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar: Provides moisture and a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
• 2 large eggs: Adds structure and richness to the cookies.
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: The classic chocolate chips give these cookies their signature flavor.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 3/4 cup salted caramel sauce: The star ingredient that adds a luscious, gooey sweetness to each bite.
• Flaky sea salt: For sprinkling on top of the cookies, providing a perfect salty finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are simple to make, and with just a few easy steps, you can create an irresistible batch of Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies that everyone will love. Follow these directions for a perfect cookie every time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure that the cookies don’t stick during baking.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a soft, chewy texture in the final cookies.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well after each addition to ensure that the eggs are fully incorporated.

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture of flour, baking soda, and salt into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.

Step 6: Add the Chocolate Chips and Pecans

Stir in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and chopped pecans. These ingredients add rich chocolate flavor and crunch to the cookies.

Step 7: Form the Cookies

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. For a fun twist, press a small well into the center of each cookie using your finger or the back of a spoon. Fill each well with 1 teaspoon of salted caramel sauce and, if desired, cover the caramel with a bit of dough.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. You want the centers to remain soft and chewy.

Step 9: Sprinkle with Flaky Sea Salt

As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, sprinkle them with a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance the sweet-salty contrast. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Use room temperature butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy dough.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaking will result in crunchy cookies instead of soft, chewy ones. Take the cookies out of the oven as soon as the edges are golden brown.
• Chill the dough (optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking will help the cookies maintain their shape and prevent spreading too much during baking.
• Use quality caramel sauce: For the best flavor, use a high-quality salted caramel sauce. You can either buy pre-made caramel sauce or make your own.
• Customize with other nuts: While pecans add a great flavor and texture, feel free to swap them out for other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different twist.

Why Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies are Perfect for Any Occasion

These Salted Caramel Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookies are the ultimate treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a birthday celebration, or just because, these cookies are sure to impress. The balance of sweet, salty, crunchy, and chewy flavors makes them a crowd favorite. With their gooey caramel center and rich chocolate flavor, they’re guaranteed to satisfy even the most discerning sweet tooth.

With minimal prep time and a quick baking process, these cookies come together in under 45 minutes—making them the perfect choice for a last-minute dessert or a cozy afternoon treat.