Gooey Chocolate Chip Cookies with Melted Caramel Center

Gooey chocolate chip cookies with melted caramel center are an irresistible twist on the classic cookie. These golden-brown treats feature a soft, chewy dough studded with chocolate chips and a surprise molten caramel core that oozes with every bite—making them a standout indulgence for any cookie lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies take everything you love about a classic chocolate chip cookie and make it even better. The chewy texture, rich flavor, and warm caramel filling make for a bakery-style cookie that’s easy to make at home. Whether for gifting, entertaining, or indulging yourself, they’re sure to impress.

Ingredients

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

• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
• Soft caramel candies or caramel squares

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat softened butter with brown and granulated sugar until creamy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, then fold in the chocolate chips.
6. Scoop 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten slightly. Place a caramel candy in the center, then top with another tablespoon of dough. Seal the edges and shape into a ball.
7. Place on baking sheets with at least 2 inches of space between cookies.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are set and tops are golden. Let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Servings and timing

Serves: 12 large cookies
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12 minutes
Cooling time: 10 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt on top before baking for a salted caramel finish.
• Nutty Version: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough.
• Stuffed with Chocolate: Substitute caramel with a square of chocolate truffle or hazelnut spread.
• Mini Cookies: Use smaller caramel bits and reduce dough size and baking time.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For warm centers, microwave a cookie for 8–10 seconds before serving. Freeze baked cookies for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs

What type of caramel works best?

Use soft, chewy caramel candies that melt easily, such as Werther’s Soft Caramels or Kraft Caramels.

How do I keep the caramel from leaking out?

Seal the dough completely around the caramel and bake at the correct temperature to prevent bursting.

Can I chill the dough?

Yes, chilling the dough for 30 minutes enhances flavor and prevents excessive spreading.

Can I use caramel sauce instead of candies?

No, sauce will leak during baking. Use solid caramel candies for best results.

Can I use store-bought cookie dough?

Yes, but ensure it’s thick enough to encase the caramel securely.

Are these cookies very sweet?

They are rich, but the semi-sweet chocolate and caramel create a balanced sweetness.

Can I make them smaller?

Yes, but use smaller caramel pieces and reduce the baking time by 2–3 minutes.

Can I prepare them in advance?

You can assemble and refrigerate unbaked cookie balls for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I reheat them for the gooey center?

A few seconds in the microwave (8–10 seconds) will melt the caramel again.

Are these cookies freezer-friendly?

Yes, both the baked cookies and unbaked dough balls freeze well.

Conclusion

Gooey chocolate chip cookies with melted caramel center are the ultimate comfort dessert—familiar yet exciting, soft yet filled with surprise. With a perfect balance of chewy texture, rich chocolate, and molten caramel, they are an unforgettable treat for any occasion.

Print