Quick and Easy Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies Recipe – Perfectly Soft and Decadent

There's something magical about the combination of peanut butter and caramel. These Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are the ultimate treat, with their soft, chewy texture and gooey caramel centers. Whether you're a fan of peanut butter or simply love a good, rich cookie, this recipe will hit the sweet spot every time. Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack, holiday sharing, or as a simple indulgence, these cookies will have everyone coming back for more.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

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The Story Behind the Recipe

Growing up, peanut butter cookies were always a staple in our household, but adding caramel took this nostalgic treat to the next level. The richness of peanut butter paired with gooey caramel creates a balance of salty and sweet that’s simply irresistible. This recipe is perfect for those times when you're craving something truly indulgent. Plus, it’s easy enough for even a novice baker to master, making it an ideal go-to dessert for any occasion.

A Bit of Cookie History

Did you know that peanut butter cookies have been a beloved American classic since the 1900s? With the invention of peanut butter in the late 1800s, bakers began incorporating this creamy spread into their recipes. The caramel twist adds a modern touch, making these cookies both nostalgic and innovative.

Recipe Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 12-16 soft caramel candies, halved (or caramel bits)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until fully combined.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined.
4. Shape the Cookies: Take about 1 tablespoon of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, and place a halved caramel candy in the center. Gently roll the dough into a ball, ensuring the caramel is completely covered. Place each dough ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
5. Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Enjoy: Serve these cookies slightly warm to experience the gooey caramel at its best! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

Cooking Tips and Variations:

• Add a Drizzle: For an extra decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or caramel sauce over the cooled cookies.
• Switch It Up: Try using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture, or substitute the caramel with chocolate chunks for a different flavor twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without compromising taste.
• Pair with: A cold glass of milk or a cup of hot coffee pairs beautifully with these rich cookies.

These Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, soft and chewy. Whether you're a peanut butter lover or just craving something sweet and satisfying, these cookies will quickly become a household favorite.

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