Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the rich flavor of brown sugar, all wrapped around gooey caramel. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re sharing them at a gathering or simply enjoying them at home with a cup of tea or coffee.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless cookie recipes out there, but Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies stand out for a few attractive reasons. First, they offer a delightful balance of textures – soft and chewy with pockets of melted caramel. The addition of cinnamon adds a comforting warmth, making these cookies reminiscent of cozy autumn days. Additionally, they are remarkably easy to make, perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. Once you experience the enticing aroma and taste of these cookies, you’ll understand why they have a special place in many hearts and on dessert tables.

How to Make Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Making Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these simple steps to whip up a batch that will leave everyone asking for more.

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 (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)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and flatten slightly. Place a caramel candy or a few caramel baking bits in the center of each cookie, then fold the dough around it.
In a small bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Roll each cookie in this mixture before placing it on the baking sheet.
Sprinkle the tops of the cookies with the remaining white sugar.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Success with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature to achieve a smooth, creamy batter without lumps.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined with the wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and help keep the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
Roll the Caramels: If using caramel candies, make sure they are at room temperature and pliable to easily wrap around the cookie dough without tearing.
Experiment with Nuts: Adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts not only adds flavor but gives a great crunch to the soft cookie.

Flavor Variations for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Chocolate Chip Addition: Add 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious mix of flavors.
Nutty Caramel Variation: Use different nuts such as almonds or cashews for an exciting twist on texture and flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Incorporate pumpkin spice in place of cinnamon for a seasonal twist that’s perfect for fall.
Salted Caramel Surprise: Drizzle melted chocolate on top and sprinkle with sea salt to accent the richness of the caramel.
Stuffed with Peanut Butter: Replace the caramel with a dollop of peanut butter for a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors.

Serving Suggestions for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own but can be elevated with a few serving ideas:

Pair with Ice Cream: Serve warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delicious dessert.
Enjoy with Hot Beverages: Pair them with coffee, hot chocolate, or chai tea for a cozy snack time at home.
Gift-Worthy Treats: Package the cookies in a decorative box or jar for a thoughtful gift for friends or family.
Dessert Table Star: Arrange these cookies on a dessert table alongside other treats for holiday parties or gatherings.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

These cookies can be stored and frozen to maintain their freshness:

Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating the cookies in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
Freezing: Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container layered with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrients | Amount |
|————|——–|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |

FAQ About Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter. Just be cautious about adding extra salt in the recipe, as salted butter already contains sodium.

What can I substitute for the caramels?

If you don’t have soft caramel candies, you can use caramel bits or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit until gel-like).

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to three days. When ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling and baking.

Final Thoughts

Brown Sugar Cinnamon Caramel Cookies are an irresistible treat that combines delicious flavors and inviting aromas. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or share them with loved ones, these cookies are sure to please. The simplicity of the recipe allows anyone to create this delightful dessert at home, making it an excellent choice for a quick baking project or a special occasion. Try making a batch today and let your taste buds savor the warm, gooey goodness of these sweet delights!