Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies -

When you think about combining flavors, Nutella and sea salt caramel might not be the first pairing that comes to mind, yet it's surprisingly harmonious. You'll find that the rich, creamy texture of Nutella melds beautifully with the sweet, buttery notes of caramel, while the sprinkle of sea salt elevates the entire experience. As you prepare to bake these cookies, you'll want to reflect on a few essential tips that can greatly enhance your results. Curious about what those might be? Let's explore the nuances that can take these cookies from good to extraordinary.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies feature a gooey Nutella center and a sprinkle of sea salt for a rich flavor experience.
The cookie dough requires common ingredients like flour, butter, and sugars, making it easy to prepare at home.
Chilling the cookie dough for 30 minutes helps achieve thick, chewy cookies and enhances their texture.
For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle additional sea salt on top before baking.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness, best enjoyed warm for optimal taste.

History

The history of cookies dates back centuries, with roots tracing back to ancient civilizations that baked small, sweet treats for various occasions. Can you envision those early bakers experimenting with flavors, trying to create the perfect bite-sized snack? It's fascinating!

These delightful morsels eventually made their way through time, evolving into the cookies we're familiar with today.

In the Middle Ages, cookies became popular as travelers carried them on long journeys. They needed something easy to pack and delicious to eat—cookies fit the bill perfectly!

Fast forward to the 19th century, when we saw the birth of the chocolate chip cookie, which truly stole the show and has remained a favorite ever since.

Now, cookies aren't just snacks; they're a part of our celebrations, family gatherings, and even our late-night cravings. With so many variations, including the mouthwatering Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies, you can see how cookies have transformed from simple treats to gourmet delights!

Recipe

Indulge in the rich and delightful flavors of Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies, an irresistible treat that balances the sweetness of caramel with the lusciousness of chocolate-hazelnut spread. These cookies are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a sweet escape after a long day.

The gooey Nutella center, combined with a sprinkle of sea salt, creates a unique flavor profile that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Making these cookies is a breeze, requiring only a few simple ingredients that you likely have on hand. The process is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the experience of baking while filling your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies.

Once baked, these cookies are best enjoyed warm, with the melted Nutella oozing out with each bite.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup Nutella
1/4 cup caramel sauce
Sea salt for sprinkling

To prepare these delicious cookies, you'll need basic baking ingredients, including flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, along with Nutella and caramel sauce for that indulgent center. A sprinkle of sea salt adds the finishing touch, enhancing the overall flavor.

When preparing your Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies, make sure that your butter is at room temperature for the best texture and ease of mixing. If you prefer thicker cookies, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.

Feel free to adjust the amount of Nutella and caramel to suit your taste, and be sure to store any leftovers in an airtight vessel to keep them fresh.

While these cookies are certainly a treat, they do offer some benefits. Nutella contains hazelnuts, which are a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. The addition of sea salt can enhance flavor and may provide trace minerals.

However, moderation is key, as the overall sweetness and richness of the cookies mean they're best enjoyed as an occasional indulgence.

Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F

Before you immerse yourself in making those delectable Nutella Sea Salt Caramel Cookies, it's important to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step might seem simple, but trust me, it sets the stage for cookie perfection.

You wouldn't want to toss your batter into a cold oven, right? That's like trying to leap into a pool without water—totally pointless!

So, while you're gathering your ingredients, go ahead and turn that oven dial. Let it work its magic as it warms up, creating the ideal environment for your cookies to bake evenly and rise beautifully.

As the oven heats, it gives you just enough time to fantasize about those gooey, Nutella-filled bites waiting for you. Just envision the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Once the oven hits that sweet 350°F mark, you'll know you're ready to bake. This is the moment where anticipation builds, and your cookie adventure truly begins.

You're one step closer to indulging in those warm, melted treats that'll leave everyone asking for more. So, don't skip this vital step—your future self will thank you when you bite into that warm cookie goodness!

Step 2. Cream Butter and Sugars Together

Now that your oven is preheating, it's time to cream the butter and sugars together. Grab a mixing bowl and toss in your softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar.

Using a hand mixer or a sturdy wooden spoon, beat those together until the mixture is light and fluffy—aim for about 2 to 3 minutes. This is where the magic begins! The sugars will dissolve into the butter, creating a delightful, creamy texture that makes your cookies irresistible.

You might notice the mixture turning a lovely pale color; that's a good sign! It means you're on the right track.

Don't rush this step—creaming properly helps incorporate air into the dough, making your cookies nice and chewy later. Once you're happy with the fluffiness, it's time to add in one large egg and a teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Beat them in until everything is well blended.

This is the perfect moment to channel your inner baking pro. You're not just making cookies; you're creating happiness in a bite. Trust me, your future self will thank you when you indulge in those warm, gooey treats!

Step 3. Add Nutella and Caramel Filling

With your butter and sugars perfectly creamed, it's time to add the delicious filling that makes these cookies truly special. Grab your Nutella and caramel sauce, and let's get to the fun part!

Take a tablespoon of your cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Envision this dough as a cozy little nest for the gooey goodness that's about to go in.

Next, scoop a generous dollop of Nutella and a little caramel sauce right in the center of that dough. Don't be shy with the filling; this is what makes your cookies sing!

Now, gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, making sure to seal it up nicely. You want to hide that delicious treasure inside, so no peeking while they bake!

Once you've got all your cookies filled and shaped, place them on your lined baking sheet, and feel free to sprinkle a little sea salt on top for that sweet-and-salty magic. Trust me, this step is essential!

Now, it's time to bake these beauties, and before you know it, your kitchen will smell heavenly. Get ready to indulge!

Step 4. Fold Dough Around Filling

To create the perfect Nutella and caramel surprise inside your cookies, start by taking a tablespoon of the prepared dough and flattening it slightly in your palm. Envision your dough like a little cozy blanket, ready to wrap around the delicious filling!

Now, scoop a dollop of Nutella and caramel sauce right in the center of that flattened dough. Don't be shy—go for it!

Next, gently fold the edges of the dough over the filling, making sure you entirely enclose that gooey goodness. It's like tucking in a baby! Pinch the seams together to seal it well, so your filling doesn't escape during baking. If you find it a bit tricky, no worries; just be patient and keep practicing.

Once you've wrapped all your dough around the fillings, place those adorable little dough balls on your lined baking sheet, giving them some space to spread out.

Sprinkle a touch of sea salt on top for that perfect sweet and salty combo. Trust me, it's going to be amazing!

Now you're one step closer to cookie heaven—how exciting is that?

Step 5. Chill Dough for 30 Minutes

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes is a simple yet effective step that can make a big difference in your cookies. You might wonder why this matters, but trust me, it's worth it!

When you chill the dough, it helps to firm up the butter, which prevents your cookies from spreading too much while they bake. We want those delicious, thick cookies that practically beg you to take a bite!

So, after you've mixed your dough and folded it around that ooey-gooey Nutella and caramel filling, just pop it in the fridge for half an hour. Use this time to clean up your mess or, let's be honest, sneak a spoonful of Nutella—no judgment here!

When the dough comes out, you'll notice it's easier to scoop and shape, making your cookies look as good as they taste.

Once you've chilled the dough, you'll be ready to bake! And trust me, when you take that first warm, gooey bite, you'll be so glad you took the time to chill. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making This Recipe

When baking Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies, a few pro tips can elevate your results. First, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature. This little step helps create that light, fluffy texture we all love.

If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Trust me, it's worth it! You might also consider pairing these cookies with a rich drink, like a Rich Dark Chocolate Almond Milk Fusion, to complement the flavors.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: Nutella and caramel. Don't be shy! You can adjust how much you use. If you want a gooey surprise in the middle, go for a generous dollop of each. Just envision that warm Nutella oozing out when you take a bite—heavenly, right?

Another tip? Sprinkle a little extra sea salt on top right before they go in the oven. That contrast between sweet and salty will have your taste buds doing a happy dance.

And finally, for the best experience, store the cookies in an airtight receptacle, but seriously, they're best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. You might want to hide a few for yourself, just saying! Happy baking!

Health Benefits

Baking Nutella and Sea Salt Caramel Cookies isn't just about satisfying your sweet tooth; it can also offer some health benefits. Believe it or not, indulging in these cookies can give you a little boost thanks to the ingredients involved.

For starters, Nutella contains hazelnuts, which are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants. These nutrients can support heart health and help keep you feeling fuller for longer. Additionally, enjoying a warm cookie with a cup of Christmas Bright Festive Lemon Ginger Tea Infusion can enhance your immune system while providing soothing comfort during the colder months.

Then there's the caramel! While it's definitely a treat, a small amount can provide a quick energy boost, perfect for those mid-afternoon slumps. Plus, a sprinkle of sea salt can actually enhance flavor, making you more satisfied with less sweetness—so you might find yourself enjoying just one or two cookies rather than devouring the whole batch!

And let's not forget the joy of baking itself. It's a great way to relieve stress and connect with friends or family.