Salted Caramel Oatmeal Cookies

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Introduction

There’s something magical about the combination of chewy oats, buttery caramel, and a touch of sea salt. These cookies strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty, soft and slightly crisp. They’re ideal for family gatherings, bake sales, or just when you need a comforting homemade treat.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups (240 g) old-fashioned oats
  • 1 cup (170 g) caramel bits or chopped soft caramel candies
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven & tray
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  1. Cream butter and sugars
  • In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and creamy. This step adds air, giving the cookies a chewy yet tender texture.
  1. Add eggs & vanilla
  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
  • Mix in vanilla extract.
  1. Mix dry ingredients
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
  • Gradually stir into the wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix.
  1. Add oats & caramel
  • Gently fold in oats and caramel bits until evenly distributed.
  1. Shape cookies
  • Scoop out dough in rounded tablespoons (or use a cookie scoop).
  • Place on baking sheets, leaving 2 inches of space between each.
  1. Bake
  • Bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden but centers still look soft.
  • Remove from oven and sprinkle lightly with flaky sea salt while still warm.
  1. Cool
  • Let cookies rest on the tray for 3–5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations

  • Chewier cookies: Slightly underbake and let them finish setting on the tray.
  • Extra caramel gooeyness: Press an extra caramel piece into the top before baking.
  • Nutty twist: Add 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts.
  • Chocolate lovers: Stir in 1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks with the caramel.

History & Fun Fact

Oatmeal cookies date back to the late 1800s, originally inspired by oatcakes eaten in Scotland. The salted caramel pairing is more modern, becoming popular in the early 2000s when chefs began adding a touch of salt to balance the sweetness of caramel.

Benefits

  • Oats add fiber and heart-healthy nutrients.
  • Sea salt enhances flavor while preventing cookies from tasting overly sweet.
  • Homemade caramel cookies mean no artificial preservatives compared to store-bought.

Serving Suggestions

  • Enjoy warm with a glass of milk.
  • Pair with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert sandwich.
  • Pack in tins for holiday gifts—these cookies travel well!

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Oatmeal Cookies combine nostalgia with a modern flavor twist. With their chewy oats, gooey caramel, and hint of salt, they’re bound to become a family favorite. Perfect for celebrations, cozy nights, or whenever you crave something sweet and comforting.

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