Caramel filled sugar cookies

Name: Caramel filled sugar cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 33 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 315 g all-purpose flour; 0.5 teaspoon baking powder; 0.75 teaspoon salt; 300 g granulated sugar; 200 g unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 12 soft caramels, halved

Author: Lora

Published: October 15, 2025

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Introduction to Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

Nothing beats the warmth and sweetness of fresh-baked cookies when they’re caramel filled sugar cookies. These are great if you’re a busy mom trying to juggle it all, or if the workday has just been very trying. Imagine a soft, sugary cookie breaking to the gooey caramel center that literally melts in your mouth. Whether you pack them in your child’s lunch after school or for a group, these cookies will do. So why not roll up those sleeves and get into joy bakes– and indulges in these sweet treasures!

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

These caramel filled sugar cookies are a delightful blend of simplicity and taste that will leave you craving more. They come together quickly, making them perfect for last-minute desserts or satisfying sweet tooth cravings. The contrast between the buttery cookie and the soft caramel is like a warm hug for your taste buds. Plus, when you share them, you’ll be the star of any gathering!

Ingredients for Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

To whip up these delightful caramel filled sugar cookies, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of any cookie, it gives structure and a tender crumb.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise, creating that soft texture we love.
Salt: Just a pinch adds balance and enhances the sweetness of the sugar.
Granulated sugar: The sweet cornerstone, helping to create a crispy exterior while keeping the center soft.
Unsalted butter: Make sure it’s softened! This adds rich flavor and contributes to the cookie’s melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Large eggs: They bind everything together, adding moisture and creating that delightful chewiness.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this magic ingredient elevates the flavor, giving the cookies a luscious aroma.
Soft caramels: The star of the show! These gooey bites bring sweetness and a delicious surprise to each cookie.

Feel free to explore optional ingredients or substitutions based on what you have in your pantry. For instance, you could swap in brown sugar for a deeper flavor or add nuts for a delightful crunch! For exact measurements, check below in the recipe details available for printing.

How to Make Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

First things first, let’s get those dry ingredients ready. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This mixture is essential for the structure of your cookies. Make sure everything is blended well; it’s like giving the cookies a solid foundation to build on. Set this aside for now; we’ll come back to it in a moment.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Now, let’s bring some richness into our cookies. In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together. I like to use an electric mixer, but a good old-fashioned whisk works too. Mix until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This step is crucial! Incorporating air creates light, tender cookies. Plus, the smell of butter and sugar coming together is simply delightful.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, it’s time to add some liquid love! Crack those eggs into the butter and sugar mixture, then pour in the vanilla extract. Mix everything together until fully combined. You want a smooth texture, almost like a thick batter. The eggs are your glue, holding all the flavors and moisture together, creating a deliciously sweet base for your caramel filled sugar cookies.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the flour mixture to your wet ingredients. I usually do this in batches, mixing lightly until a smooth dough forms. Just envision your dough coming together like a cozy blanket. Don’t overmix; we want it just right. If you’ve ever made cookie dough before, you know what a satisfying step this is!

Step 5: Form Cookies with Caramel

Now comes the fun part! Grab portions of dough and roll them into small balls, about 2.5 cm wide. This is when you hide the treasure. Press a half caramel into the center of each ball, sealing the dough around it completely. It’s like tucking in a little surprise! Don’t stress about making them perfect; the charm is in their homemade feel.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 175°C. Place your filled cookie dough balls on a greased baking tray, spacing them out about 5 cm apart. Bake for around 13 minutes, or until the tops start to crack. Keep a watchful eye—overbaking will turn that gooey caramel into a sticky disaster! When they come out, let them cool for a few minutes. Just try to resist the temptation, though—it’ll be worth it!

Tips for Success

Softened butter is key for that perfect texture. Don’t skip this step!
Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too sticky to handle.
Experiment with different caramel types—sea salt caramel adds a fun twist!
Let the cookies cool completely before biting in for the true caramel experience.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl for combining ingredients and a medium bowl for mixing wet ingredients.
Electric mixer: An electric handheld mixer makes creaming butter and sugar easier, but a whisk works, too!
Baking tray: A sturdy tray to hold your cookies; parchment paper is optional for easy cleanup.
Cookie scoop: Useful for portioning dough evenly; a spoon can work in a pinch.

Variations on Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

Chocolate Chip Caramel Cookies: Add chocolate chips to your dough for a delightful combination of flavors.
Brown Sugar Variation: Substitute half or all of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, richer taste.
Spiced Caramel Cookies: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist to your cookies.
Nutty Addition: Throw in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a delightful alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

Pair your warm cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for that classic combo.
Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a decadent dessert.
For a festive touch, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Presentation matters! Arrange them on a decorative platter for gatherings or special occasions.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost and visual appeal.

FAQs about Caramel Filled Sugar Cookies

How do I prevent the caramel from leaking out?

To keep that gooey caramel filling securely inside, ensure you seal the dough thoroughly around each caramel. A little practice goes a long way! You can also chill the filled cookie dough before baking to help maintain its shape and keep the caramel from escaping.

Can I use homemade caramel for these cookies?

Absolutely! If you’re up for a small culinary adventure, homemade caramel will add a deliciously personal touch. Just make sure it’s soft enough to fit nicely into the cookie. I love experimenting with homemade caramel—a small batch is all you need!

How should I store these cookies?

Store your caramel filled sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the caramel delightfully gooey. They also stay fresh for about a week, but I doubt they’ll last that long!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

You can indeed! Freeze the cookie dough balls after they are filled and shaped. Just wrap them securely, then pop them in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw slightly before placing them on the baking tray. You’ll thank yourself later for the quick dessert fix!

What other fillings can I try besides caramel?

Get creative! You could use chocolate ganache, fruit preserves, or even peanut butter. Each option adds a unique spin to your cookies. Just remember that whatever filling you choose should be thick enough to hold its form while baking.

Final Thoughts

Baking these caramel filled sugar cookies isn’t just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about creating little moments of joy. Each bite takes me back to cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen, where the aroma of warm cookies fills the air. These treats spark smiles, whether they’re enjoyed with family or shared with friends. Plus, they’re versatile enough to adapt to any occasion! So, gather your ingredients and let’s make some memories. Trust me, once you take that first gooey bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds a special place in my heart.