Crisp golden butter cookies paired with a rich and creamy salted caramel filling—these sandwich cookies are irresistibly smooth inside with a satisfyingly crunchy texture outside. The perfect balance of sweet and salty, these treats offer indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just a delicious snack, they’re sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Salted Caramel Sandwich Cookies are the ideal dessert for those who appreciate the contrast of textures and flavors. The buttery, slightly crisp cookies provide the perfect base for the luxurious, gooey salted caramel filling. The combination of sweetness from the caramel, a hint of saltiness, and the rich vanilla flavor from the cookies makes each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is not only simple to make but results in an elegant treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from afternoon tea to a party spread.

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Salted Caramel Filling:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp water
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1/3 cup white chocolate, melted (for thickening)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
2. Add flour and salt, and mix until dough forms. Shape into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into even circles.
4. Place dough circles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely.
5. For the salted caramel filling, heat sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat until the mixture turns deep amber. Remove from heat and carefully whisk in heavy cream, butter, and sea salt. Stir until smooth. Let the caramel cool slightly, then blend in melted white chocolate to thicken the filling.
6. Pipe or spoon the caramel onto half of the cooled cookies, and then top with the remaining cookies to form sandwiches. Let set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes about 12 sandwich cookies.
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes (plus chilling time)
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour (including chilling and cooling)

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: For an added touch of richness, drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the cookies after they’ve been sandwiched together.
• Flavored Caramel: Try infusing your caramel with other flavors like vanilla bean, cinnamon, or coffee for a unique twist.
• Nutty Version: Add chopped toasted nuts, like pecans or almonds, into the caramel filling for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store these sandwich cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: These cookies are best enjoyed at room temperature, but if you’d like them warm, gently heat them in the oven for a few minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare both the cookies and the caramel filling ahead of time. Store the cookies in an airtight container and the caramel in the refrigerator. Assemble the cookies just before serving.

2. Can I use salted butter for the cookies?

While salted butter can be used in the cookies, it’s recommended to use unsalted butter so that you can control the amount of salt in the caramel filling, as well as the cookies.

3. Can I use a different type of chocolate for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute the white chocolate with milk chocolate or dark chocolate, depending on your preference. White chocolate, however, helps thicken the caramel and provides a mild flavor that complements the salt.

4. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?

Make sure the dough is chilled for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent excessive spreading and ensure the cookies hold their shape.

5. Can I make the caramel without using white chocolate?

Yes, if you don’t have white chocolate, you can omit it. However, the caramel may be slightly thinner. You can add a bit more butter or use cornstarch to thicken the filling.

6. How can I prevent the caramel from crystallizing?

To prevent the caramel from crystallizing, make sure you stir the sugar and water mixture only until the sugar has dissolved. Once the sugar has melted, avoid stirring until the caramel reaches the amber color.

7. Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze well. After assembling, place the cookies in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

8. Can I use a different type of flour?

For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may be slightly different.

9. Can I add more salt to the caramel filling?

If you prefer a stronger salted caramel flavor, feel free to increase the amount of sea salt to your taste. Just be careful not to add too much, as it can overwhelm the sweetness.

10. Why did my caramel separate?

Caramel can separate if it’s cooked too quickly or over a high heat. Be sure to cook it on medium heat and stir carefully. If separation occurs, you can gently reheat and whisk it back together.

Conclusion

Salted Caramel Sandwich Cookies are a decadent treat that balances sweetness with a touch of salt for a truly indulgent experience. With their crisp butter cookies and rich, creamy salted caramel filling, these cookies make the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether shared with friends or enjoyed on your own, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth in the most delightful way.

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