Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies

These Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with sweet, gooey caramel, making them an irresistible treat for any peanut butter lover!

Ingredients:

Cookies:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ cup caramel chips (or soft caramel squares cut into small pieces)
• ½ cup white chocolate chips

Caramel Drizzle:

• ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cookie Dough:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, beat together the peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the baking soda and mix until well combined. Gently fold in the caramel chips and white chocolate chips.
2. Shape and Bake:
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly press each ball with your fingers or a fork to flatten. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the Caramel Drizzle:
   • In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the caramel sauce with the heavy cream, stirring until smooth and pourable.
4. Drizzle and Serve:
   • Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the warm caramel over the top. Let the caramel set slightly before serving.

Tips for Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies:

• Add More Texture: For added crunch, consider mixing in chopped peanuts or toffee bits with the cookie dough.
• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

FAQs About Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies:

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
   • Yes, natural peanut butter works, but the cookies may spread less, resulting in a thicker cookie.
2. What can I substitute for caramel chips?
   • You can use chopped soft caramel squares or chocolate-covered caramel candies as a substitute.
3. How do I prevent cookies from becoming too dry?
   • Ensure you don’t overbake the cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.
4. Can I add nuts to the cookie dough?
   • Absolutely! Chopped peanuts or walnuts can add a delightful crunch to your cookies.
5. How do I store leftover cookies?
   • Place leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft and chewy.

These Peanut Butter Caramel Cookies are perfect for any dessert table, combining the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of caramel. They are a delightful treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your family and friends!