I love how these cookies bring together the best of two desserts—cookies and cheesecake. The cream cheese makes the dough tender and moist, while the salted caramel adds richness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips and caramel bits. They’re simple to make, customizable with extra mix-ins, and always disappear quickly whenever I bake them.
Ingredients
(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 cup packed light brown sugar 2 large eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 8 ounces cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup salted caramel sauce 1 cup mini chocolate chips 1/2 cup caramel bits
Directions
Prepare the Dough I start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt, then set it aside. In another bowl, I beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. I add the eggs one at a time, mixing well, and stir in the vanilla. Then I mix in the cream cheese until smooth.
Combine Ingredients I gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix. I gently fold in the salted caramel sauce, mini chocolate chips, and caramel bits.
Bake the Cookies I scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart. I bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden but the centers stay soft. After baking, I let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. It takes 15 minutes to prepare, 12 minutes to bake, for a total time of 27 minutes.
Variations
Sometimes I drizzle extra salted caramel sauce on top after baking for a gooey finish. I also like adding chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch. If I want a richer flavor, I use dark chocolate chips instead of mini chocolate chips. For a holiday twist, I fold in crushed peppermint candies or toffee bits.
Storage/Reheating
I store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, I freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy them warm, I reheat a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, I often prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, I scoop portions of dough onto a tray, freeze them, then store them in a bag. I bake straight from frozen, just adding 1 to 2 minutes to the baking time.
Do I need to soften the cream cheese?
Yes, softened cream cheese blends smoothly into the dough and prevents lumps.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, I use either homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce depending on convenience.
How do I keep the cookies chewy?
I make sure not to overbake—the centers should still look slightly soft when I take them out.
Can I make them without chocolate chips?
Yes, I sometimes skip the chocolate chips and use only caramel bits, or replace them with white chocolate chips.
What if I don’t have caramel bits?
I chop soft caramel candies into small pieces as a substitute.
Can I make these cookies smaller or larger?
Yes, I adjust the baking time accordingly—smaller cookies bake faster, while larger ones take a little longer.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
I prefer full-fat cream cheese for the best flavor and texture, but low-fat will work in a pinch.
Can I add sea salt on top?
Yes, I love sprinkling a little flaky sea salt on the cookies right after baking for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Salted caramel cheesecake cookies are one of my go-to recipes when I want a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent. With their soft, chewy centers, creamy cheesecake richness, and bursts of caramel and chocolate, they always win over anyone who tries them. These cookies are simple to make yet taste like a bakery-worthy treat, making them a perfect addition to any occasion.
