Name: Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (brown butter for richness); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup dark brown sugar; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 large egg yolk (room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour (whisk with dry ingredients); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt; 2 tablespoons instant coffee; 1 cup caramel bits or squares (for gooey center); 1 cup Nestlé chocolate chunks (for decadence); 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) (great for added texture); 2 cups gluten-free baking blend (substitute for all-purpose flour)

The aroma wafting through my kitchen was nothing short of magical; it brought memories of cozy coffee shops and sweet indulgences straight to my home. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies—an effortless yet luxurious dessert that promises to impress. With the richness of brown butter and the delightful blend of toasted coffee and gooey caramel, these cookies not only satisfy any sweet tooth but also make for a delightful treat at gatherings. Plus, their simple preparation means you’ll have more time to enjoy the delicious results with friends and family. Curious about how to make these scrumptious bites that combine the best of cozy cafe flavors in one cookie? Let’s dive in!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite exudes a rich mocha flavor combined with gooey caramel, offering a taste sensation that satisfies both coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts.

Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up even on a busy day, making them perfect for any occasion.

Versatile Variations: Want to switch it up? Consider variations like adding nuts for crunch or substituting dark chocolate for a deeper flavor, just like my Zebra Cookies Swirled recipe!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: These cookies shine at gatherings, effortlessly impressing guests and family alike with their irresistible sweet-and-salty appeal.

Comforting Texture: Soft-baked with a chewy center, the contrast of warm caramel and chocolate chunks feels like a warm hug, making them a perfect cozy treat.

Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough
• Butter – Use brown butter for a rich, nutty flavor that elevates these salted caramel mocha cookies.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides a base sweetness; paired with dark brown sugar, it enhances caramel notes.
• Dark Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and depth; light brown sugar can be a great substitute if needed.
• Eggs – Contributes moisture and richness; remember to use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
• Vanilla Extract – Essential for adding a warm sweetness to balance the rich flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to your cookies; don’t forget to whisk it with other dry ingredients for uniformity.
• Baking Soda – Helps the cookies rise and become soft-baked; essential for texture.
• Instant Coffee – Introduces the delightful mocha flavor; espresso powder works as an excellent alternative.
• Coarse Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top to enhance the sweetness and create a wonderful flavor contrast.
• Caramel Bits or Squares – Ensure a gooey center; if using squares, freeze them briefly for easy chopping.
• Nestlé Chocolate Chunks – For that decadent chocolate flavor; feel free to mix in other types of chocolate as desired.

Optional Add-ins
• Chopped Nuts (Pecans or Walnuts) – Adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor; perfect for an added texture boost.
• Gluten-Free Baking Blend – For those with dietary restrictions, this makes a great substitute for all-purpose flour.

These delectable Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies are sure to impress friends and family with every delicious bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Brown Butter
In a medium saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until it foams and turns a golden-brown color, about 5–7 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning; you’ll know it’s done when it smells nutty and has a rich caramel hue. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly while you gather the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of coarse sea salt, and 2 tablespoons of instant coffee. This dry blend will create a well-rounded flavor profile for the salted caramel mocha cookies. Set this mixture aside so that it is ready to combine in the next step.

Step 3: Combine Sugar and Brown Butter
In a mixing bowl, beat the cooled brown butter with ½ cup of granulated sugar and ¾ cup of dark brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. The blend should become creamy, and the sugars should dissolve completely, allowing that rich flavor to meld beautifully into your cookie dough.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Crack in one whole egg and one extra yolk into the sugar mixture along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture until fully combined, which should take about 1-2 minutes. You’ll notice the consistency becoming slightly thicker and more homogeneous, enhancing the richness that makes these Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies unforgettable.

Step 5: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be sure not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher cookies. You want a soft, thick dough that holds together well in your bowl, ready to invite the delicious additions that await.

Step 6: Incorporate Add-ins
Gently fold in 1 cup of caramel bits and 1 cup of Nestlé chocolate chunks using a spatula until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. Each scoop of dough should be studded with gooey caramel and rich chocolate, calling for excitement before even hitting the oven!

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop, drop heaping tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared sheet, leaving enough space between each scoop for spreading. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft and puffy.

Step 8: Finish with Sea Salt
Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sea salt on top of each one while they are still warm. This step is crucial to balancing the sweetness of the caramel and enhancing the mocha flavors of your salted caramel mocha cookies.

Step 9: Cool Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period helps them set perfectly, giving you that delightful soft-baked texture, while also letting the flavors merge beautifully for each glorious bite.

Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies

Chill the Dough: Letting your dough chill for 30 minutes can prevent spreading and ensure perfectly shaped cookies.
Check Butter Temperature: Make sure your brown butter isn’t too hot when mixing with sugars to avoid cooking the eggs, which could affect texture.
Proper Measuring: Use a kitchen scale to measure flour for the cookies. Too much flour can lead to dense, dry cookies.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined; overmixing can create tougher salted caramel mocha cookies.
Warm for Serving: Enjoy cookies warm from the oven or gently reheated to bring out the gooey caramel and chocolate flavors even more.

What to Serve with Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies

Experience the perfect flavor combination and pairings that elevate your baking masterpiece into a complete meal.

Rich Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla beautifully balances the chocolate and caramel, creating a luxurious dessert experience.
Hot Chocolate: Serve a steaming mug next to your cookies for the ultimate cozy treat; the flavors of mocha will echo delightfully together.
Espresso or Coffee: A cup of strong brew enhances the mocha flavor in the cookies, making it a delightful afternoon pick-me-up for coffee lovers.
Chocolate Chip Milkshake: Creamy and indulgent, a milkshake complements the rich flavors of the cookies while adding a fun, nostalgic twist.
Fresh Berries: The tartness of strawberries or raspberries cuts through the sweetness and adds freshness, offering a light contrast to your treat.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Elevate the presentation and taste by adding a warm caramel drizzle on top; it harmonizes with the cookies’ sticky texture for pure indulgence.
Cheese Platter: Serve with a selection of soft cheeses; the savory aspects contrast beautifully with the sweet cookie flavors, making it a sophisticated pairing.
Chai or Herbal Tea: A fragrant tea rounds out the meal with soothing spices, perfect for a light afternoon or late-night snack by the fire.
Nutty Trail Mix: The crunchy texture of nuts and dried fruit adds another layer, balancing sweetness while providing a nourishing side for a more balanced snack.

Make Ahead Options

These Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and chilling it in the refrigerator. This not only deepens the flavors but also helps prevent spreading during baking. Alternatively, you can scoop the dough into individual balls, freeze them on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply pop them straight from the freezer into the oven, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm cookies that are just as delicious as if made on the same day!

How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This keeps them soft and fresh, ready for a delightful treat anytime.

Fridge: For longer freshness, keep cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: Freeze cookies in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Place parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, restoring that gooey caramel and chocolate goodness.

Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies Variations

Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful cookies with these easy variations!

Nutty Surprise: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch that complements the caramel beautifully. The warmth of roasted nuts adds an extra layer of flavor that transforms each bite into a comforting treat.
Decadent Dark Chocolate: Swap out the chocolate chunks for dark chocolate for a richer flavor experience that coffee and chocolate lovers will adore. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate balances perfectly with the sweet caramel and is sure to make your taste buds dance!
Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a gluten-free baking blend to make these cookies easily accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Baking can be inclusive, and with the right blend, you won’t compromise on flavor or texture.
Mocha Madness: Up the ante on the mocha flavor by adding an extra tablespoon of instant coffee or using a bold espresso powder instead. Each bite will be more intense; perfect for those who love their coffee strong and chocolatey!
Caramel Swirls: Instead of bits, drizzle caramel sauce into the dough after mixing, swirling it throughout for gooey pockets of sweetness in every cookie. This fun twist adds both texture and an extra boost of caramel flavor.
Cinnamon Spice: A pinch of cinnamon can infuse warmth into these cookies, making them perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations. The spice pairs wonderfully with the mocha and caramel, creating a comforting nostalgic flavor profile.
Sea Salt Boost: Play with the salt level by adding a sprinkle of smoked sea salt on top before serving. The hint of smokiness can complete the sweet-salty balance beautifully, heightening the cookie’s overall flavor experience.
Milk Chocolate Bliss: If you prefer a sweeter bite, opt for milk chocolate instead of dark. It’ll create a creamier sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the caramel, ensuring each cookie is a delightful dessert experience.

Feel free to discover delicious combinations, like pairing these Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for an unforgettable dessert. And if you’re on a cookie spree, check out my Irresistible Mocha Muffins or even make some delightful Spiral Cookies Colorful for variety!

Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of butter should I use for the cookies?
Absolutely! For these Salted Caramel Mocha Cookies, I highly recommend using brown butter. It adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the overall taste. However, if you’re in a pinch, unsalted butter can work just fine, although it won’t provide the same depth.

How should I store the cookies?
To keep your salted caramel mocha cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want them to stay soft for longer, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to 2 weeks.

Can I freeze the cookie dough? And how?
Absolutely! Freezing the dough is a great option for future cookie cravings. First, scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze them in balls for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored like this for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to a few factors. Make sure you’re chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, as this helps maintain their shape. Additionally, ensure that your butter isn’t too hot when mixing in the sugars, as this can cause the eggs to get slightly cooked, which affects texture. Lastly, double-check your flour measurement; too little flour can also lead to spreading.

Can these cookies accommodate dietary restrictions?
Definitely! For a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Additionally, ensure that any caramel bits you use are free from allergens if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies. If you’re looking to make these cookies pet-friendly, remember that chocolate and caramel are not safe for pets, so it’s best to keep them out of reach!

What are some ideas for variations or mix-ins?
The more the merrier! Feel free to put your spin on these salted caramel mocha cookies by adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch. You can also swap out the chocolate chunks for dark chocolate for an intense flavor experience, or even experiment with different types of caramel!