Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies Delight You!

Name: Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup Dutch process cocoa; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup chopped pretzels; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; About 20 caramel candy squares cut in half (I use Kraft caramels); Sea salt for sprinkling on cookies

Author: Lora

Published: July 20, 2025

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Introduction to Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Welcome to a delightful journey into the sweet and savory world of Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies! If you’re like me, balancing a busy schedule can sometimes leave you with little time for baking. But trust me, these cookies are your new best friend in the kitchen. They’re simple, quick to whip up, and combine the richness of chocolate with the buttery crunch of pretzels, all wrapped around gooey caramel. Perfect for a family treat or when you want to impress friends, these cookies truly elevate any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

You’re going to fall head over heels for these Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies! They’re not just easy to make; they’re a delicious marriage of flavors and textures that your loved ones will adore. With quick prep time, you’ll have warm, gooey cookies ready in just 30 minutes. Plus, the salty-sweet harmony is a flavor explosion that’ll leave you craving more. Seriously, what’s not to love?

Ingredients for Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these irresistible Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The base of your cookie, giving it structure. It’s versatile and keeps the cookies chewy.
Dutch process cocoa: Adds a rich, deep chocolate flavor. You can use regular cocoa, but Dutch gives a smoother taste.
Baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and become delightful soft pillows of goodness.
Sea salt: Enhances the flavors of chocolate and caramel. A must for that perfect sweet-salty balance!
Unsalted butter: Adds a creamy texture and flavor. Choose high-quality butter for the best results.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps them spread nicely while baking.
Brown sugar: For moisture and a hint of caramel flavor. The duo of sugars creates a lovely depth.
Large eggs: Act as a binder, helping the cookies hold their shape. Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
Vanilla extract: A simple touch that enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
Chopped pretzels: The crunchy element that complements the smooth chocolate and gooey caramel. Use your favorite buttery pretzels for added flavor.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Melting into the cookie dough, they offer pockets of melted chocolate joy.
Caramel candy squares: A gooey surprise in each cookie. I recommend Kraft caramels for their softness.
Sea salt for sprinkling: Use sparingly on top for that extra touch of salinity.

If you want to get creative, consider swapping out chocolate chips for white chocolate or adding nuts for extra crunch. Don’t fret! Exact measurements are at the bottom of the article for easy printing.

How to Make Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Creating these delightful Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have warm, mouthwatering cookies fresh from your oven. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first—let’s preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.

While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat baking mat. This little step helps prevent sticking and makes clean-up a snap.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, Dutch process cocoa, baking soda, and sea salt. This whisking ensures every bite is evenly flavored.

Plus, it’s an excellent arm workout too! Who knew baking could double as exercise?

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Time to grab your mixer! In another bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s wonderfully smooth.

Add in the large eggs, one at a time, then pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until just combined. This step creates that lovely creamy base we all adore.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overdoing it can result in tough cookies—no thanks!

Then, gently fold in the chopped pretzels and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This is where your cookies come alive with flavor and crunch!

Step 5: Form Cookies

Using about 2 tablespoons of dough, shape it into a ball in your palm.

Now, here comes the fun part: Place a caramel piece in the center, then cover it fully with cookie dough. This step keeps the gooey caramel hidden until you bite into your cookie!

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Place the cookie dough balls on your prepared baking sheet about two inches apart for even baking.

Before popping them in the oven, sprinkle a dash of sea salt on top. This adds a delightful burst of flavor.

Bake these beauties for about 10 minutes. When they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Tips for Success

Measure your flour accurately to avoid dry cookies. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off.
Let your butter reach room temperature for easier mixing and a creamier texture.
Don’t overmix once you add the dry ingredients. This keeps your cookies soft and chewy.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
Experiment with the type and amount of sea salt for the ideal sweet-salty balance.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A sturdy set works best, but feel free to use any large bowls you have on hand.
Electric mixer: A stand mixer is perfect, but hand mixers do the job just as well.
Baking sheets: Use regular sheets or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Wire cooling rack: If you don’t have one, a plate will work in a pinch.

Variations of Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Nutty Twist: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch. They provide a delightful contrast to the chewy texture.
White Chocolate Delight: Swap semi-sweet chocolate chips for white chocolate chips to create a sweeter cookie. The combination with salted caramel is divine!
Peanut Butter Surprise: Incorporate peanut butter chips alongside chocolate chips for a rich, nutty flavor. Perfect for peanut butter fans!
Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these treats without gluten.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder to the dry ingredients for a warming flavor profile that enhances the chocolate.

Serving Suggestions for Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Milk: A classic pairing! Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Hot Cocoa: Serve alongside a warm mug of rich hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
Iced Coffee: The cookie’s sweetness beautifully complements the bitterness of iced coffee.
Presentation: Arrange cookies on a decorative plate and sprinkle with extra sea salt for a fancy touch.

FAQs about Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just ensure to wrap it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before shaping.

What if I can’t find caramel squares?
No worries! You can substitute with caramel sauce—just drizzle a spoonful into the center of the cookie before sealing. However, keep an eye on your oven, as baking time may vary.

Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze baked cookies! Just let them cool completely before wrapping them in airtight containers. They’ll keep well for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature.

Are there any substitutions for the flour?
Certainly! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The texture may differ slightly but still delicious!

How do I store leftover cookies?
Store your Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If they last that long, I’m impressed!

Final Thoughts

Baking Chocolate Salted Caramel Pretzel Cookies is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about crafting joyful moments. Each time I pull a batch from the oven, my heart fills with excitement. The delightful combination of rich chocolate, velvety caramel, and crunchy pretzels creates happiness with every bite. Whether sharing with family, surprising a friend, or indulging solo, these cookies add a touch of warmth to any day. I hope you find as much joy in baking and sharing them as I do. Grab your apron and let’s get cookie making!