Brownie Mix Chocolate Caramel Cookies
Highlighted under: Cakes & Cravings
When I first made these Brownie Mix Chocolate Caramel Cookies, I was amazed at how easy they were to whip up. Using a brownie mix as the base means you get that rich chocolate flavor with minimal effort. The gooey caramel hidden inside takes them to the next level, creating a delightful surprise in every bite. I love how quickly they come together, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or an indulgent treat at home.
Making these cookies brought back memories of baking with my family during the holidays. We always loved the combination of chocolate and caramel, so I thought, why not combine the two in cookie form? The brownie mix elevates the flavor and ensures a fudgy texture that traditional cookie recipes sometimes miss. Plus, the surprise of warm caramel in the center makes each bite an adventure!
I discovered that chilling the cookie dough before baking enhances the overall flavor and texture. This simple step helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much, resulting in that perfect soft center with slightly crispy edges. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Decadent chocolate flavor with a soft, chewy texture
- A delightful surprise of gooey caramel in every bite
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any occasion
Understanding the Ingredients
The base of these cookies is a brownie mix, which brings a deep cocoa flavor and a moist texture. By using a mix, you cut down on prep time while still achieving that rich, fudgy experience that brownies are known for. A crucial ingredient in these cookies is the soft caramel candies; they provide a gooey center that contrasts beautifully with the chewy cookie exterior. Make sure to use fresh, high-quality caramels for the best result.
The addition of all-purpose flour may seem minor, but it plays a significant role in balancing the thickness of the brownie mix and ensuring that the cookies hold their shape while baking. If you're looking to make these cookies gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum, which helps mimic the structure of traditional flour.
Baking Tips for Perfection
When shaping the cookies, ensure you seal the caramel completely within the dough. If the caramel is exposed, it can leak out during baking, resulting in a sticky mess. To prevent this, take your time to encase the caramel thoroughly and roll it into a nice ball. Keep an eye on the baking time; you want the edges of the cookies to appear set while allowing the centers to remain slightly soft for that chewy texture.
After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This resting period allows the cookies to firm up a bit and makes transferring them to a wire rack easier without breaking. If you notice the cookies spreading too much during baking, next time you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping, which can help maintain their form.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients:
For the Cookies
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 24 soft caramel candies
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Make sure to have your toppings ready!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create delicious cookies:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until well blended. Add in the chocolate chips and flour, mixing until just combined.
Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out a portion of the dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a caramel candy in the center, then fold the dough over to encase the caramel. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy your homemade cookies!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the cookies just after baking to enhance the flavors.
Storage and Freshness
To keep your Brownie Mix Chocolate Caramel Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to extend their freshness, you can freeze them. Just make sure they are completely cooled, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up. This will revive the gooey caramel center, making every bite just as delightful as when they were fresh.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but if you're looking for an extra indulgence, try serving them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The contrast of the cold ice cream and warm cookie complements the gooey caramel perfectly, creating a dessert experience that's hard to resist.
For a festive touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or dusting them with powdered sugar. This simple addition can enhance their presentation and make them suitable for special occasions, such as birthday parties or holiday gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of brownie mix?
Yes, feel free to experiment with flavored brownie mixes such as caramel or peanut butter.
→ How can I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked cookie balls, and bake them straight from the freezer when you're ready for a treat.
→ What can I substitute for caramel candies?
You can use chocolate-covered caramel candies or even chocolate chunks if you prefer.
Brownie Mix Chocolate Caramel Cookies
When I first made these Brownie Mix Chocolate Caramel Cookies, I was amazed at how easy they were to whip up. Using a brownie mix as the base means you get that rich chocolate flavor with minimal effort. The gooey caramel hidden inside takes them to the next level, creating a delightful surprise in every bite. I love how quickly they come together, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or an indulgent treat at home.
Created by: Lacey Montgomery
Recipe Type: Cakes & Cravings
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 box brownie mix
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 24 soft caramel candies
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until well blended. Add in the chocolate chips and flour, mixing until just combined.
Using a tablespoon, scoop out a portion of the dough and flatten it in your hand. Place a caramel candy in the center, then fold the dough over to encase the caramel. Roll it into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set. Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top of the cookies just after baking to enhance the flavors.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 17g
- Protein: 2g