If you’re a fan of caramel’s rich, buttery sweetness, you’ll adore these Caramel CupsThese bite-sized treats feature a tender cookie crust filled with luscious caramel, creating the perfect combination of textures and flavors. They’re simple to make and ideal for holidays, parties, or when you want a sweet treat that’s a little extra special.
Let’s dive into the recipe and bring these gooey delights to life!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Gooey and indulgent: The creamy caramel filling is a sweet lover’s dream.
- Versatile and fun: Perfect for holidays, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of coffee.
- Easy to customize: Add toppings or flavor variations to make them your own.
- Beautiful presentation: Their mini size and glossy caramel centers make them look bakery-worthy.
What Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delectable Caramel Cups, you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour (for a soft, buttery cookie base)
- Butter (the foundation of a rich, tender dough)
- Granulated sugar and brown sugar (for sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor)
- Eggs (to bind the dough)
- Vanilla extract (for warmth and depth of flavor)
- Baking soda and salt (to help the cookies bake perfectly)
- Soft caramels or caramel sauce (the gooey, sweet filling)
- Heavy cream (to make the caramel smooth and creamy)
How to Make Caramel Cups
- Prepare the dough:
- Cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and vanilla until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until combined.
- Shape the cookie cups:
- Roll the dough into small balls and press them into the cups of a mini muffin tin, forming little shells. This creates the perfect vessel for the caramel filling.
- Bake the cookie cups:
- Bake the cookie cups until golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool slightly in the tin, then carefully press down the centers with the back of a spoon to create space for the caramel filling.
- Make the caramel filling:
- Melt the caramels with a splash of heavy cream over low heat, stirring until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, use a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce.
- Fill the cups:
- Spoon the warm caramel into the cookie cups, filling each one generously. Let the caramel set slightly before adding any toppings.
- Decorate and serve:
- Finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for a sweet-and-salty twist or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgence. Serve and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Cups
- Chill the Dough:
- Refrigerate the cookie dough for 30 minutes before shaping. This helps the cookie cups hold their shape while baking.
- Use Soft Caramels:
- If using prewrapped caramels, opt for soft ones that melt easily. They’ll blend with the cream for a silky-smooth filling.
- Don’t Overbake:
- Remove the cookie cups when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Experiment with Flavors:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spiced twist or a splash of almond extract for a nutty flavor.
- Garnish Creatively:
- Top with crushed nuts, a sprinkle of toffee bits, or edible glitter for a festive presentation.
Storage Information
- At room temperature: Store the caramel cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the refrigerator: Keep them chilled in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.
- In the freezer: Freeze the cookies without the caramel filling in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add the caramel filling after thawing for the freshest taste.
FAQ: Caramel Cups Cookies
1. Can I use premade caramel sauce?
Yes! High-quality store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly and saves time.
2. What if my caramel hardens in the cups?
If the caramel hardens too much, warm the cookies slightly in the microwave to soften the filling before serving.
3. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cookie cups and store them separately from the caramel filling. Assemble them shortly before serving for the best texture.
4. How do I prevent the cookie cups from sticking to the tin?
Grease your mini muffin tin well or use non-stick cooking spray. You can also use silicone molds for easy removal.
5. Can I add nuts to the caramel filling?
Definitely! Chopped pecans or walnuts make a delicious addition to the caramel, adding crunch and extra flavor.
A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion
These Caramel Cups Cookies are the ultimate combination of buttery, soft cookie dough and gooey caramel. They’re fun to make, a delight to eat, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a batch of these irresistible caramel-filled treats. You won’t regret it!
Have you tried Caramel Cups Cookies? Share your favorite variations and tips in the comments below! 🍪✨
Irresistible Caramel Cups
These Caramel Cups Cookies are a sweet and indulgent treat, combining a tender, buttery cookie base with a rich, creamy caramel filling. Perfectly bite-sized and easy to make, they’re ideal for holidays, parties, or a special dessert. Top them with flaky sea salt, chocolate drizzle, or crushed nuts for a delightful finishing touch that will wow everyone! 🍪✨
Ingredients
For tart shells
For the filling
Frosting
Instructions
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To make the shells
Mix cream cheese and butter. Add flour. Roll into 1″ balls and press into miniature tart pans. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
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Make the Filling
Melt caramels and milk in a double boiler, pour slowly into baked cups, and cool.
-
Make the Frosting
Beat butter and shortening until fluffy. Continue beating while slowly adding sugar. Add milk and vanilla while beating. Frost and sprinkle with pecans.
